Dependants: Application

How do dependants apply?

Dependants may apply at the same time as the student or following the grant of the student’s visa. If children are applying you may also need to consider the timing of both parents’ applications. 

The Student Advice and Support Service can help check a draft application and supporting documents – seek advice before you finish and submit the application. 

Entry clearance applications outside the UK

Entry clearance applications outside the UK are usually made online. Select the ‘Dependant Partner’ or ‘Dependant child’ option as appropriate for each application. The application will ask for some details of the student, their course and CAS number.

Visa switching or extension applications in the UK

Visa switching or extension applications in the UK are also usually made online. 

    • When family apply at the same time as a student, they can be added to the Student application.
    • If family apply separately from the student the application can be made as either a ‘partner’ or ‘child’ or one application can be started as a partner or child and other family members can be added to that application as required, start from the relevant link here. 

Certain visas including visitor, short-term students, parent of a child student do not permit switching to stay as a dependants, in these circumstances the dependant would be required to return home and apply for entry clearance. 

Application costs

Each dependant pays the same visa application fees as a Student. Similarly, the Immigration Health Surcharge will be charged for each dependant on the same basis as a Student i.e. £470 per year (£235 per 6 months) depending on the length of visa to be granted.

Last Updated: 23rd May 2023