If you’re pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom under a Tier 4 (General) student authorization, your immediate family members might qualify for accompanying residence permits. This guide outlines the essential requirements and application procedures.
Qualification Criteria for Principal Applicant
To sponsor dependents, you must meet one of these academic statuses:
– Enrolled in a state-funded educational program exceeding half a year’s duration
– Undertaking a master’s degree or doctoral program (minimum 9 months) at an accredited institution
Special note for 2025 enrolments:
Postgraduate candidates must be registered in either:
– Doctoral research programs (Level 8 qualifications)
– Advanced research degrees requiring thesis submission
Eligible Family Members :
The UK immigration system recognizes these relationships:
– Legally wed spouses or civil union partners
– Cohabiting partners in established long-term relationships
– Minor children (under 18 years) including UK-born infants
Documentation essentials:
– Certified marriage records for partners
– Complete birth certificates showing parental information
– Additional relationship verification may be requested
Minor Dependents Specifics :
For children’s applications, you must demonstrate:
– The child maintains single status
– Primary residence with the sponsoring parent (exceptions for full-time educational arrangements)
Residence confirmation requires two current documents :
– Financial institution statements
– Educational enrollment verification
– Government-issued identification
– Healthcare registration papers
– Utility service invoices
Note: Any financial contributions from the child must be disclosed.
Financial Obligations :
Beyond the primary applicant’s living costs, each family member must show available funds:
*Monthly maintenance thresholds:*
– Inner London postcodes: £845
– All other locations: £680
(Calculated for maximum 9 months)
Critical financial details :
– Joint applications require cumulative proof for entire family
– Separate submissions need individual maintenance evidence
– Funds must remain available for 28 uninterrupted days prior to submission
– The balance verification date must fall within one month of application
Exemptions apply for :
– Dependents with 12+ months of prior UK residency
– Certain nationalities under special provisions
(Note: UKVI may request financial proof later in the process)
Overseas Application Protocol :
Family members abroad must:
- Complete digital application forms
- Reference the primary applicant’s case number (GWF/UAN)
- Attend biometric collection appointments
Processing notes :
– Some jurisdictions offer expedited services
– Document authentication requirements vary by country
Visa Validity Period
Approved dependent visas will align with the primary applicant’s study visa expiration date.
In-Country Status Adjustments
Existing UK residents may:
– Concurrently apply with the main applicant’s extension
– Submit standalone applications before current visa lapses
Ineligible categories for conversion :
– Temporary visitor status holders
– Short-term study permit bearers
– Specialized employment visa categories
Fee Structure :
Mandatory costs include:
– £524 processing fee per applicant
– Immigration Health Surcharge payment
– Complimentary biometric enrollment
Domestic Application Mechanics :
UK-based applicants must:
– Utilize online submission portals
– Schedule UKVCAS appointments
– Electronically submit supporting evidence
Important restrictions :
– Applicants must remain within UK/Crown Dependencies during processing
– Premium processing options may be available
Post-Approval Procedures
Successful applicants receive:
– Digital immigration status (eVisa)
– Instructions for UKVI account creation
– BRP collection details (where applicable)
Special Circumstances: UK-Born Children :
Important considerations:
– Birth in the UK doesn’t confer automatic citizenship
– Separate visa applications required for international travel
– Must apply before majority age for continued residency
– Requires complete birth registration showing both parents
For the most current regulations and country-specific requirements, consult official UK immigration resources or accredited legal advisors. Processing timelines and documentary requirements may change without notice
