How many dependents can accompany me on the visa in UK for a Postgraduate?

There is no numerical cap on how many dependents you can bring to the UK on a Student Visa, but whether you can bring any at all depends entirely on the type of postgraduate course you are enrolled in. If you are doing a standard taught Master's, this is the one rule that could catch you off guard, so read the eligibility criteria carefully before you plan your family's move.

Which Postgraduate Courses Allow Dependents

Who Counts as a Dependent and What You Must Prove

• Eligible dependents are your spouse, civil partner or unmarried partner, and your children under 18 at the time of application.
• Unmarried partners typically need to show at least two years of cohabitation to prove a relationship akin to marriage.
• You must hold the required maintenance funds for each dependent for a consecutive 28 day period before applying.
• Every dependent submits their own separate visa application and pays their own visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.

My Advice

Before you assume you can bring your family, confirm in writing with your university whether your specific Master's is classified as taught or research based, since the label on the brochure is not always obvious. If your course does not qualify, look specifically at PhD or MRes routes if bringing your spouse or children is a priority for you.