Dependants

This is a brief guide to some of the main visa issues for Student visa holders at Loughborough University who wish to bring family to the UK as dependants.

On 5 October 2020 Tier 4 was replaced by the Student visa route. The dependant rules are the same for holders of Tier 4 or Student visa and any references to ‘Student’ visa below include those who have Tier 4 permission.

The immigration rules do not cater for every family scenario and can be different from what you may expect.  For individual advice you are recommended to contact the Student Advice and Support Service before making any study or visa plans. 

For a detailed guide please see the information prepared by UKCISA as well as the UKVI Student  guidance which includes a section on dependants. 

The following summarises some of the most common issues. There are many requirements that need to be met in order to obtain permission as a dependant. If any of these cannot be met you may consider whether your family member can obtain immigration permission in another capacity, e.g. as a visitor or another type of visa if they meet the appropriate conditions.

How can the University support you?

You can find guidance on various visa topics on the University’s webpages. These webpages include the most common visa related topics, questions and issues.

You should always use the webpages first however if you require advice or guidance beyond what is covered on the webpages you can contact the Student Advice and Support Service. 

Last Updated: 19th May 2023