How to migrate to the UK as a student with your spouse

The UK is a significant destination for international students and expatriates. The UK is renowned for its higher education system, the best in Europe. To make life easier for prospective students, here are some insights on migrating to the UK with your spouse.

Migration from other countries into the UK might seem daunting, but it’s relatively easy as long as you know what you’re doing and take your time planning for the big step. This article is about how to migrate to the UK with your spouse as a student in a straightforward and easy-to-understand way.

What is a UK Student Visa

Student Visas in the UK allow students to migrate to the country and study a course at an approved institution. A student visa is the most common visa issued by UK Embassies. It allows spouses of students to join their partners in the UK during their studies or allow them to work in the country.

Most student visas are valid for three years and can be extended up to five years or a maximum of one extra year after the course has finished. You can only apply for a student visa once you have an offer from the university you will be attending.

You will have to have at least £1,334 (per month for study duration) when you apply for a student visa, and you must be in good mental health or well enough to manage your finances. If either of these conditions is not met, you may be denied entry into the country.

UK Student Visa: Who is a Dependent?

The UK student visa process depends on whether you are considered a dependent of a student. Dependents are students’ partners and children under 18 who have a family relationship with the students. The relationship must be close – more than half the time, which must be continuous for at least 12 months.

So, if you are married to a student who is going to study in the UK, you will be considered a dependent and can accompany your spouse and stay in the UK while they are studying. However, under UK immigration rules, dependents can work in the UK while their student spouse completes their course.

Types of UK Student Visa

There are different types of Student Visas:

– Tier 4 Visa – allows students to work up to 20 hours/week for a maximum of 10 months per year at an approved institution in the UK. Work does not have to be paid, and only five days need to be spent on paid work per week. The most common visa issued by UK Embassies.

– Short-Term Study Visa (11 months): Students can study a short course in the UK, but it must last no longer than 11 months to study English language courses.

– Student Visa for Children – Children under 18 who wish to study in the UK get this visa. Their parent must show proof of funds to support them financially, and they must be accepted into an educational institution in the UK.

UK Student Visa: Who is a Dependent?

Things you need to migrate to the UK as a Student

Application to the UK with your spouse starts with the application for the student visa, and the requirements are below:

1. Offer of Admission from an approved educational institution in the UK

Before you apply for a student visa, check that the UK Government recognizes the educational institute you want to study at. This is very important because you must show proof of acceptance into the school when applying for a student visa.

2. Proof of Funds

You must have enough money to support yourself and your family for your course. Applications for student visas are often declined if the UK Embassy sees that you cannot support yourself or your family while studying in the country. You should also ensure that your bank statements prove you have enough funds available to cover your expenses before applying for a student visa.

3. English Language Proficiency

Students from non-English speaking countries must show proof of English language proficiency before they can be granted a student visa in the UK. This can be done through a standard test such as IELTS or TOEFL.

How to apply for UK Student Visa Online?

1. Get Your Document Ready

You must have all the documents ready before you can begin to apply for a student visa in the UK. You will need the following:-

– An offer of admission from an educational institution in the UK, including information on the course and the dates it runs for;

– Proof of sufficient funds;

– Proof of English language proficiency (if your first language is not English); and finally,

– Your passport. Make sure it is valid for at least six months after you are due to arrive in the UK.

2. Proceed to apply

You can apply for a student visa online with all the necessary documents. Visit the UK Visas and Immigration website to apply. You will be required to open an account, complete the application form (remember to print the form when you’re done) and use the calendar online to book an appointment with VAC. You will get your application number via email to keep track of the status.

3. Pay the fees

You will also have to pay the fee online using a credit or debit card. You will be given four alternatives on how to pay:

– Online Banking Credit Card or Debit Card

– Payment at the visa application center (VAC)

– Payment through bank draft addressed to British High Commission

– Any Branch of Standard Chartered Bank via bank draft

4. Book an appointment at VAC (Visa Application Center)

The next step is to book an appointment with VAC, where you will be required to present your passport, completed application form, an offer of admission, passport photographs, and all other supporting documents. You will also do your biometrics there.

How to Apply for a visa for Dependents

The visa application process for dependents is similar to the student process. Just as you are required to provide proof of identity and relationship with the student, you should also make sure you have enough proof of funds before applying for a dependent visa.

You can apply for a dependent visa online with all the necessary documents. Visit the UK Visas and Immigration website to begin the application process. You will be required to open an account, complete the application form (remember to print the form when you’re done) and use the calendar online to book an appointment with VAC. You will get your application number via email to keep track of the status.