International students on UK taught master’s courses will be banned from bringing family members with them as dependants, PIE News reports.
Only students on postgraduate courses currently designated as research programmes, which includes PhD students, will be able to bring dependants under new rules set out by home secretary Suella Braverman.
This makes it harder for international students to bring their families over when studying in the UK as the government limit dependant visas for these group of students.
Not long ago, the Department of Education, the Home Office and the Treasury have finalise plans that prevent master’s students on one-year courses from bringing family members to the UK with them,reportstheFinancial Times.
Statistics from theHome Office published in February 2023showed that 490,763 sponsored study visas were granted to main applicants in 2022, the highest number since comparable records began in 2005.
This was 29% more than the year before and 26% higher than the number granted in 2019, the last pre-pandemic year.
Student visa holders were accompanied by a record 135,788 dependants — almost nine times the number that entered the country in 2019 and more than the total for the previous six years combined.
Limiting dependant visas: “Impossible” for many students to study in the UK
Not everyone is enthusiastic about the government’s response to restricting the number of dependant visas for international students.
Justine Greening, the former Conservative education secretary, attacked Rishi Sunak’s proposals to limit the number of international students at British universities, arguing that the move could have a “severe negative impact” on the country,reportsThe Guardian.
In a letter co-signed by 12 university vice-chancellors, Greening urged the education secretary, Gillian Keegan, to make the case against new restrictions on students.
The new restriction is said to be supported by Sunak in the wake of record levels of inward migration.
“Reducing the number of international students could have a severe negative impact on Britain’s economy, productivity, and our world-leading universities,” Greening said in the letter.
“The obvious cultural contribution and enrichment of UK students’ learning experience is clear, as is the knowledge exchange and research contribution that international students bring to our renowned higher education sector.”
Lil Bremermann-Richard, CEO of Oxford International Education Group, told The PIE News that limiting dependant visas will make it “impossible”for many students to study in the UK.
“If we are truly committed to attracting diverse talent, we need to take into consideration the financial costs that could be involved to secure care alternatives, or to travel back and forth,” she said.
“We also need to remember that students have lots of options; if presented with a choice of studying in the UK and leaving their dependants behind, or studying elsewhere, like Canada for example, with their family, many will choose the latter.
Justine Greening, the former Conservative education secretary, attacked Rishi Sunak’s proposals to limit the number of international students at British universities, arguing that the move could have a “severe negative impact” on the country. Source: Daniel Leal/various sources/AFP
Is it easier for international students to bring their family to other countries?
Living alone in a new country can be a daunting experience, so it’s not surprising to see international students bring their parents when studying abroad.
After all, research shows that a good parent-child relationship can satisfy anindividual’s basic emotional needs, such as a sense of belonging, leading to positive academic exploration and pursuit.
OneChevening Scholartalks about her experience studying abroad: “I have professional experiences that I never had before, and many doors were opening, but homesickness and loneliness are also challenges that I ended up having to face daily.”
Having your wife, husband, children and parents around can help students overcome such challenges — but do many countries allow this?
Let’s dive deeper into the regulations pertaining to dependant visas for international students:
Dubbed the “Land of Dreams”, the US is undeniably a popular study-abroad destination. While it’s possible to bring family with you, the dependant visa can take up to90 daysfor approval (or rejection) by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Source: Mario Tama/Getty Images North America/Getty Images/AFP
1. US
It is possible to bring your family to the US on a student visa, but there are strict regulations that you must follow.
Plus, the process can be time-consuming. On average, the dependant visa can take up to90 daysfor approval (or rejection) by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
How to apply?
First, you need an I-20 form. Your uni would require documents like a copy of your passport and additional financial statements showing how you can financially support your dependants to issue your I-20 form.
Your best point of contact would be the international student office or the international admissions team.
With these forms, the visa category your family members should apply for depends on your relationship with them. Look out for the following:
- If you want to bring your spouse or children to the US, add an F-2 visa application for every family member. The F-2 visa is a derivate visa category, meaning you can apply for them as you apply for your student visa and the length of stay allowed will be equal to yours.
- If you want to bring a parent, sibling, fiance or children over 21 to the US on a student visa, these individuals must apply for a B-2 visitor visa. These visas allow family members to stay in the US for a maximum of six months.
If you’re ever in doubt about how to bring your family over to the US on an American student visa, the US International Student and Scholar Services website is one of your best sources of info. Source: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images North America/Getty Images/AFP.
How much does it cost?
The US International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) requires evidence of funding of US$4,500 annually for a spouse and US$2,500 annually per child to issue an I-20 form.
While this is the minimum amount required, note that thecost of living is risingin the US. Research the realistic estimate of funds needed to cover rent, food, and other expenses.
Dependants of international students on a F-2 visa are not permitted to work and will not be provided with a social security number.
What’s different after COVID-19?
Despite COVID-19, the rules have not changed. You may, however, spend more time gathering all the required documentation, given consulate closures and local lockdowns.
Speak to your uni about the vaccine requirements that may extend to your dependant. In addition to the COVID-19 vaccine, colleges and K-12 schools typically require proof of multiple immunisations such as meningitis, polio, MMR and hepatitis B.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada facilitates the arrival of immigrants into the country. Source: Cole Burston/AFP
2. Canada
Yes, it is possible to bring your family with you when you head to Canada to study. There are many moving parts and things to consider, so let’s break it down.
In any case, always refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canadafor the latest updates.
How to apply?
First, consider what visa status best fits each family member’s needs.
If they are visiting, they can apply for a visitor visa. This is perfect if your parents are coming over for your graduation ceremony or your spouse or common
A study permit is usually held by your minor children (aged up to 18 or 19, depending on your province or territory) who study in Canada.
If your spouse or partners want to work in Canada, they may be eligible for a work permit if you study full-time at an eligible institution.
When submitting your application, family members need to show proof of your student status (by way of an admission letter, current enrollment letter, or transcript) and an invitation letter — written by you — outlining your family’s reason for visiting Canada.
How much does it cost?
Your family needs to show proof of adequate funds to support their stay in Canada.
In addition to the minimum funds you need as a student, family members should generally show4,000 Canadian dollars for the first family member, 3,000 Canadian dollars for each additional family member, and slightlymore in Quebec.
What’s different after COVID-19?
Most international studentshave been able to enter Canada since Oct. 20, 2020. Still, Canadian COVID-19 travel restrictions for other travellers are changing rapidly.
That’s why it’s important to stay on top of thelatest news on Canadian travel restrictionsas you prepare to bring any family or dependants to the country.
Australia is the third most popular destination for international students. Source: Robert Wallace/AFP
3. Australia
An Australian student visa is a temporary visa and lets you and your family stay in Australia for the length of your course, according to Times Higher Education.
How to apply?
When applying for your Australian student visa, the main applicant you can include is your family member, like your parents or children. Once your visa is approved, your family can migrate together to Australia.
Alternatively, you can apply for a subsequent entrant visa. Some families decide for the main applicant to migrate first and organise the basics, such as finding a place to live, securing work, or selecting schools for the children. The family can follow afterwards on subsequent entrant visas.
The Department of Home Affairs is the Australian government’s interior ministry with responsibilities for national security, law enforcement, and immigration, to name a few. Source: William West/AFP
How much does it cost?
The visa application charges for a student visa are 630 Australian dollars for the main applicant, 470 Australian dollars for additional applicants 18 and over, and 155 Australian dollars for children under 18.
Additional fees apply if you engage a professional migration service to assist you.
The processing time for student visas is about three to five months.
What’s different after COVID-19?
While the pandemic did disrupt travel for international students, the Australian government has eased travel restrictions.
FAQs
What are the new rules for dependent visa in UK? ›
The UK is planning to change the rules for accompanying dependents of international students. Dependents with “high-value” degrees can accompany the primary candidate while they study in the UK. The UK issued 5 lakh study visas in 2022. It issued visas to more than 135,000 dependents.
What are the limitations of dependent visa UK? ›One of the main disadvantages of the UK Dependent Visa is, it restricts the people who you can enter the country with you. Unless a person fits within the criteria laid down in the Immigration Rules & policy guidance, they will not be able to join you on a Dependent Visa, for example, children above 18 years old.
Is dependent visa banned in UK? ›The UK government will prevent international students from bringing dependants with them beginning January 2024 – unless students are in postgraduate programmes with a research focus. The move is intended to help curb net migration.
What are the requirements for student dependent visa in UK? ›- a full-time student on a postgraduate level course (RQF level 7 or above) that lasts 9 months or longer.
- a new government-sponsored student on a course that lasts longer than 6 months.
- a Doctorate Extension Scheme student.
These are some of the most rigid requirements of both the Home Office and UKVI, which you shouldn't neglect. Fortunately, after March 2021, the family visa, including the spouse visa in the UK, success rate, is dramatically improved by 86.88%, with a minimum refusal rate of 12.69%.
What are the rules for dependents in UK? ›- Prove their Identity;
- Prove their relationship to the main applicant;
- Intend to live with their sponsor in the UK for the duration of their visa;
- Have enough funds to support themselves without public funds (i.e. benefits).
The good news is that it is possible to appeal the decision to refuse your Adult Dependent Relative visa application. To do so you must lodge an appeal at the First tier Tribunal within 28 days from the date you receive the refusal.
What is the rejection rate for UK dependent visa? ›UK visa rejection rate
It's been reported that the rejection rate of UK visa applications is around 15%, with some visa categories witnessing even higher denial rates. For instance, the Tier 1 (entrepreneur) visa has a rejection rate of a staggering 50%.
UK Parent, Spouse or Child Visa: British citizens and settled individuals can call their dependent spouse, parents or children who are not currently in the UK to live with them. This visa will be valid for a period of 2 years and 6 months and can be extended.
Why is dependent visa rejected in UK? ›The most common reasons for your UK visa application being unsuccessful are: Failing the English language requirement test. Incorrect organisation of documents. Insufficient evidence of relationship (spouse and other partner visas)
How long can parents stay in UK on dependent visa? ›
Under this visa route, your parents can stay in the UK for up to 6 months on each visit, but you must prove that they need multiple visits over long periods (2–10 years).
Can Dependants of international students work in UK? ›Your Dependants can work in the UK if you are: a government sponsored student studying on a full time course that is at least six months; or. taking a full-time postgraduate course of 9 months or longer at a Higher Education provider' with 'a track record of compliance' (we meet that requirement); or.
What are the new immigration rules for the UK in 2023? ›Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme
The ETA scheme will come into force on 13 April 2023. It applies to anyone that is not British or Irish who wants to visit or transit through the UK and who do not currently need a visa for short stays.
Dependants must apply separately to switch
If you plan to switch to a different visa type, your dependants (partner and children) can also do so before their visa expires, but they will need to apply separately. This can be done when you apply or at a later date.
- Applicants must have a valid passport.
- The sponsor must have adequate financial resources to support the dependents.
- Work and income proof of the sponsor.
- Medical examination and evidence of adequate insurance for dependents.
- Filled application with enclosed fee.
Priority Visa services for Start Up, Innovator or High Potential Individual applications – Customers and their dependants applying on the Start Up, Innovator or High Potential Individual routes are not eligible for the Priority Visa service. Priority Visa services are available for new family visa applications.
Is there any interview for UK dependent visa? ›During your spouse visa interview, the UKVI ECO will ask you a range of marriage interview questions about: The background to your relationship – i.e. how and when you met, how often you meet. Your general background, family and immigration history. Your partner's general background, family and immigration history.
How long does it take for UK student dependent visa to be approved? ›If your brother or sister is dependent on you
They might be able to get a visa to live in the UK if they're dependent on you because of their age or if they have a disability or illness. They can only apply for a visa if you have either: settled status. pre-settled status and you arrived in the UK by 31 December 2020.
To claim until the age of 20, the young person must have started or enrolled on their course by their 19th birthday. HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) will automatically stop CTC for a child from 1 September following their 16th birthday.
Can a dependant work full-time in UK? ›
Can my dependants work and study in the UK? Any dependants who are over 16 years old will be able to work full time in the UK. There are no restrictions on the type of work they can do except: No work as a doctor or dentist in training.
What is the success rate of dependent visa? ›Qualifying adult dependant relative definition by Home Office is very strict. Meting the criteria for the visa is virtually impossible. ADR visa success rate is calculated at around 3,5 – 4%. That means that less than one in twenty five applicants is granted the ADR visa after applying for it.
Is UK spouse visa difficult? ›The rules and requirements for couples applying for a UK spouse or partner visa can be extremely complex. Couples need to make sure they meet the financial requirements, show that they are in a genuine relationship and are eligible under the rules. You can see details about all of these requirements below.
Does US visa refusal affect UK visa? ›A visa refusal to another country will not automatically lead to a refusal of a UK visa, but a case worker will pay extra attention to your application and documents.
Does the UK ever decline student visas? ›The UK student visa can be denied due to many reasons such as Incomplete application form, Poor academic records, Insufficient funds, Incomplete paperwork, Lack of interview skills, Criminal record found against the visa seeker, etc.
How often are UK spouse visas denied? ›Know all about UK Spouse visa, explained in detail by our immigration lawyers. According to the latest statistics released by the Home Office, 1 in 4 UK Spouse Visa applications are refused. Concluding that even if the chances of a UK Spouse Visa refusal are 1 in 4, the UK Spouse Visa applications are still rejected.
What happens if an international student gives birth in UK? ›If your baby is born in the UK then they can remain in the UK without applying for a visa. However, if you need to travel outside the UK your baby will require a passport or travel document and they will also need a dependant visa to re-enter the UK.
How long does it take to get a UK visa from USA? ›The UK Visas and Immigration global service standard for processing non-settlement visas is 15 working days and 60 working days for settlement visas.
How old is a dependant UK? ›Under UK immigration law, a child is considered a dependant when they are under the age of 18, neither unmarried nor in a civil partnership, are not leading an independent life and do not have a family of their own.
Is UK spouse visa closing in 2023? ›The Super Priority Visa is currently temporarily suspended for new Family Visa applications submitted outside the UK. However, the Priority Visa Service has, since 20 February 2023, now resumed for new Marriage and Family Visa applications submitted outside the UK.
Can I bring my parents to UK on dependent visa? ›
UK Dependent Visa For Parents And Grandparents. If you have parents or grandparents in your home country that are unable to care for themselves, they may be eligible to join you in the UK under the Dependent Visa.
What is the 7 year child rule in the UK? ›What is the 7 Year Child Concession? In simple words, this provides a route for a child without leave (and their parents), to apply for leave to remain where they have lived in the UK continuously for 7 years.
How much income do I need to sponsor my parents in UK? ›If you're using income from self-employment or employment, you'll need to prove you or your partner received that income for 6 months or more. You've worked with the same employer earning £18,600 or more for 6 months or longer.
Is education free in UK for dependent visa? ›Your children are entitled to free education if they're on a dependant visa. They don't get free education if they're in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa.
Which country is best for student visa with spouse? ›| Country | Can spouse travel with an international student? |
|---|---|
| United States of America(USA) | Spouse can apply for F-2 or J2 visa to get permission to stay in USA |
| United Kingdom(UK) | Spouses are allowed to stay in the UK. |
| Germany | Spouse can come with German Residence Permit |
Money to support yourself ('financial requirement')
How much money you need depends on where you will be studying. You'll need either: £1,334 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses in London. £1,023 per month (for up to 9 months) for courses outside London.
You're usually automatically a British citizen if you were both: born in the UK on or after 1 January 1983. born when one of your parents was a British citizen or 'settled' in the UK.
What is 10 years immigration law UK? ›Overview. You may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain if you've been in the UK legally for 10 continuous years (known as 'long residence'). Indefinite leave to remain is how you settle in the UK. It's also called 'settlement'.
What is the new immigration bill 2023? ›The bill establishes a roadmap to citizenship for undocumented noncitizens by allowing them to apply for temporary legal status (“Lawful Prospective Immigrant Status”), with the opportunity to apply for lawful permanent residence (i.e., “green card”) after five years if they pass criminal and national security ...
What are the benefits of dependent visa in UK? ›What are the Advantages of a UK Dependent Visa? There are several advantages attached to a Dependent Visa. These include the ability to work and study in the UK (children can attend private or state schools). In addition, after a period, those on a UK Dependent Visa can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Can I switch my dependent visa to work in UK? ›
You might be able to apply to change ('switch') to a Skilled Worker visa if you're already in the UK on a different type of visa. Your partner or child's visa will not automatically switch to this visa if you switch yours. If they do not switch their visa, it will be valid until its original end date.
What is a Tier 4 dependant visa? ›The overview. Some Tier 4 students can also have family (i.e. spouse or partner and/or your children) with them in the UK as “Tier 4 Dependants”. See UKCISA website to check if your dependants are able to come to the UK on a Tier 4 Dependant visa.
Who is eligible for dependant visa in the UK? ›Who can come to the UK as a dependant? A dependant for visa purposes is: A husband, wife or civil partner. An unmarried partner if you have been living together in a relationship similar to marriage or civil partnership for a period of at least 2 years.
Can I take my family to UK on student visa? ›You can include the details of your dependants when completing the online student visa extension application . Dependants should be given the same time of leave as the main applicant. All family members will be required to attend a visa centre to enrol their biometrics.
How long can dependents stay in UK? ›If the candidate is applying for as a spouse or as a parent, they are eligible to stay in the UK for 2 years and 9 months. If the candidate is applying as a fiancé or a civil partner, they are eligible to stay in the UK for 6 months.
How long can you stay out of the UK on a dependent visa? ›Permitted absences of up to 6 months
You are allowed to spend time outside of the UK so long as these periods of absence do not exceed 6 months at any one time.
Can my dependants work and study in the UK? Any dependants who are over 16 years old will be able to work full time in the UK. There are no restrictions on the type of work they can do except: No work as a doctor or dentist in training.
How long a student dependent is eligible to work in the UK? ›Eligibility. Your Dependants can work in the UK if you are: a government sponsored student studying on a full time course that is at least six months; or. taking a full-time postgraduate course of 9 months or longer at a Higher Education provider' with 'a track record of compliance' (we meet that requirement); or.
What is the 7 years child immigration rule in the UK? ›What is the 7 Year Child Concession? In simple words, this provides a route for a child without leave (and their parents), to apply for leave to remain where they have lived in the UK continuously for 7 years.
What happens after 5 years stay in UK? ›Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years or 3 years means that a person no longer needs to apply to extend their permission to live in the UK. They are allowed to stay here indefinitely - they are 'settled' in the UK. It is the most secure immigration status in the UK except for British Citizenship.
What is the 10 year UK visa rule? ›
The 10-year route to indefinite leave to remain and UK settlement. Under the immigration rules, you can apply for indefinite leave to remain if you have lived in the UK for at least 10 years and your time in the UK has been both continuous and lawful.
What is the easiest way to get PR in UK? ›Get a UK PR via a work visa
In most cases, you will get PR once you have held your work visa for 5 years. The Skilled Worker visa is currently one of the easiest ways to get PR in the UK for non-EU nationals. There are several UK work visas that qualify for UK residency, including the following: Skilled Worker visa.
Can I leave the UK after 6 months and come back? It is possible to stay in the UK for up to 6 months under a long-term visitor visa, and then depart and return shortly after, provided the visa is not being used to live in the UK for extended periods.
Can I bring my girlfriend to UK as dependent? ›To apply as a partner, you and your partner both need to be 18 or over. Your partner must also either: be a British or Irish citizen. have settled in the UK - for example, they have indefinite leave to remain, settled status or proof of permanent residence.
Can I bring my parents to UK on Student visa? ›Bringing family members with you
You can bring your other children with you if they also have or are applying for a Child Student visa. You cannot bring other family members with you on this visa. They may be able to apply to come to the UK on a short-term visit visa.