Studying at an overseas university is exciting, especially when it comes to studying at a UK university. The United Kingdom is one of the first choices for international students. However, sooner or later the international students will start to miss their near and dear ones. Are you a student in higher education and have a dependent? If so, you are not alone! The higher education system in the United Kingdom is known for being one of the most expensive in the world. For many students, it can be difficult to balance their studies with their family commitments. However, planning ahead can make things much easier. There are several options for studying while having a dependent on your course of study. This article will show you how to plan your study in UK with a dependent, and what to do if your child is not eligible for government assistance or care.
What is a dependent student?
A dependent student is a student who lives with a parent or parents. If a person has a spouse or partner, they can also be classified as dependent if their spouse or partner is not in full-time employment and does not have enough income to support themselves. Dependent students are entitled to loans and grants from the government that go towards their living costs. In order to get these loans and grants, you need to be studying at certain types of institutions. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, this includes universities and colleges. The Student Loans Company will tell you what type of institution you're studying at. The government provides different levels of support for dependents depending on how old they are when they start their course.
Financial requirement for a UK Spouse visa
The financial requirement for a UK Spouse visa application states that you will need to demonstrate that your Spouse (or both of you jointly if you are in the UK with valid leave to remain) has a gross annual income of at least:
• £18,600; plus
• £3,800 for a first child (who is not British, settled, or an EEA national); plus
• £2,400 for each additional child (who is not British, settled, or an EEA national).
How do I apply for a spouse visa?
You can apply for a spouse visa from overseas or from within the UK. If you are already in the UK on a fiance visa, work visa, or student visa valid for more than six months, you may be able to switch to a spouse visa.
Can I extend my spouse visa?
The good news is that if you meet the criteria, you can apply for an extension for an additional 30 months which can take your total time in the UK on this visa up to five years. At this point, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) provided you are still married and living in the UK. You can also apply to settle in the UK if you have been married for more than four years and have lived together in the UK for at least five years.
Spouse visa entry clearance
If you are in a relationship with a British citizen, you may be eligible for a spouse visa to the UK. To qualify, you must have been married or in a civil partnership for at least 2 years and you must meet financial requirements. You will need to prove your relationship by providing proof of joint ownership of property, joint bank accounts, regular correspondence between the two of you.
Conclusion
A UK spouse visa allows married partners of UK citizens to immigrate to the UK because they are married to someone who is 'settled in the UK' The average processing time for a spouse visa application is 2 – 12 weeks from the date we submit the application. You can apply for an extension for an additional 30 months, which can take your total time on this visa up to five years. After you have been granted ILR you may be eligible to apply for naturalization as a British citizen.