If you are an international student in the UK and wish to bring your spouse with you, you may be eligible for a UK Spouse Visa (also known as a Dependant Visa). This guide provides comprehensive information on the requirements, application process, fees, and tips for successfully obtaining a spouse visa for the UK.
To be eligible for a UK Spouse Visa as a student, you must meet the following criteria:
Valid Student Visa: You must hold a valid Tier 4 (General) Student Visa or a Student Visa under the new points-based system.
Relationship Requirements: You and your spouse must be legally married or in a civil partnership.
Financial Requirements: You must have sufficient funds to support your spouse without needing public funds.
Accommodation Requirements: You must provide evidence of suitable accommodation for you and your spouse.
Genuine Relationship: You must prove that your relationship is genuine and subsisting.
According to the latest changes implemented in January 2024, the following program criteria apply for students seeking to bring their spouses:
Postgraduate Programs: The primary student must be enrolled in a postgraduate level course (Master’s or PhD).
Duration: The course duration must be at least 9 months or longer.
Specific Courses: Spouse visas are generally permitted for students in specific courses such as:
Accredited Institutions: The student must be studying at a recognized and accredited institution.
To apply for a UK Spouse Visa, you will need to submit the following documents:
Valid Passport: For both you and your spouse.
Marriage Certificate: Proof of your marriage or civil partnership.
Proof of Funds: Bank statements or other financial documents demonstrating that you have enough money to support your spouse.
Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of suitable accommodation in the UK.
CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies): A copy of your CAS letter from your university.
Proof of Relationship: Photos, correspondence, and other documents showing your relationship history.
Tuberculosis Test Results: If applicable, depending on the country of residence.
Biometric Information: Fingerprints and a photograph.
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support your spouse during their stay in the UK. The financial requirements are as follows:
For students studying in London: £1,334 per month for the first 9 months.
For students studying outside London: £1,023 per month for the first 9 months.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents, including proof of relationship, financial documents, and accommodation details.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
Fill out the spouse visa application form on the official UK government website. You can apply online here.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
The current fee for a UK Spouse Visa is £1,538 if applying from outside the UK and £1,048 if applying from within the UK. Additionally, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year.
Step 4: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
You will need to book and attend an appointment at a visa application center to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Submit your application along with all supporting documents. You may need to send your documents to a specified address or upload them online, depending on the application process.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
Processing times can vary, but it typically takes around 8 weeks for a decision to be made. You can check the processing times here.
Accurate Documentation: Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date.
Clear Relationship Evidence: Provide detailed evidence of your relationship to avoid any doubts about its authenticity.
Financial Proof: Make sure your financial documents clearly show that you meet the financial requirements.
Early Application: Apply well in advance to avoid any delays in processing.
Obtaining a UK Spouse Visa for students involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, providing detailed documentation, and following a structured application process. By ensuring that you have all the required documents and meet the financial and accommodation requirements, you can successfully bring your spouse to the UK.
For personalized advice and support, trust Seabird Education, the leading consultancy for UK study visas.
Visit Seabird Education or call 78704-78704 to start your journey.
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