Student visa holders will no longer be able to bring dependants with them to the UK (on a student dependant visa) unless studying on a PhD or other doctorate (RQF level 8); or a research-based higher degree.
Can dependants extend their permission to stay in the UK if the student needs more time to complete their course, but the course is no longer eligible for dependants?
Dependants that are already in the UK can extend their permission if the main applicant is granted further leave to remain under the Student route.
How much does a dependant need to show for their visa application?
Each dependant will need to show maintenance (living costs) of £680.00 for each month of the main Student Route applicants leave, up to a maximum of 9 months.
Can dependants still work?
The rules around dependant work rights have remained the same.
Family members of a Student can work (in line with UK employment law) in the UK except when:
- they are being granted leave as a dependant after previously being the Student’s dependant when the Student had permission to study a full-time course of 6 months or longer and the Student is now applying for permission to study a new full-time course that is less than 9 months in length (unless the Student is continuing a course of study on which they had previously been granted at least 9 months permission for)
- they are being granted leave as a dependant after previously being the Student’s dependant when the Student had permission to study a full-time course of 6 months or longer and the Student is now applying for permission to study a new full-time course below degree level
A person with leave as the dependant partner of a Student cannot take employment as a professional sportsperson (including as a sports coach).