Who Is Eligible for UK Dependant Visa (2025/2026)
Table of Content
1. Introduction
2. What the UK Dependant Visa Means
3. Who Is Eligible for a UK Dependant Visa
4. Eligibility Rules for Student Dependants
5. Documents Required for UK Dependant Visa
6. Common Mistakes That Cause Dependant Visa Refusals
1. Introduction
Many Nigerian students planning to study in the UK often ask who is eligible for UK dependant visa, especially when they want to travel with a spouse or children. With recent UK immigration changes, understanding the rules for the 2025 and 2026 intakes has become more important than ever.
Some students assume all international students can bring dependants, while others believe dependant visas are no longer allowed at all. Both assumptions are incorrect.
This guide clearly explains who qualifies for a UK dependant visa, which students are eligible, which family members can apply, and what Nigerian applicants must know to avoid refusal.
2. What the UK Dependant Visa Means
A UK dependant visa allows eligible family members of a main visa holder to live in the UK for the same duration as the main applicant’s visa.
For students, dependants are usually:
A legally married spouse or civil partner
Unmarried partner in a long-term relationship
Dependant children under 18
The dependant visa does not exist on its own. Eligibility depends entirely on the main applicant’s visa type, course level, and institution.
Understanding the UK study process early helps families plan properly. This step-by-step guide on how to apply to UK universities from Nigeria explains how dependant eligibility fits into the wider application journey.
3. Who Is Eligible for a UK Dependant Visa
Eligibility for a UK dependant visa depends on who the main applicant is and what type of visa they hold.
In 2025 and 2026, the following categories may be eligible to bring dependants:
Government-sponsored students on long-term courses
Postgraduate students on eligible research-based programmes
Skilled Worker visa holders
Health and Care Worker visa holders
For student applicants, eligibility is more limited and closely monitored. Not all courses qualify, and many undergraduate and taught master’s programmes no longer allow dependants.
This is why course and institution choice matters. Reviewing top UK courses in demand for Nigerian students helps applicants understand which programmes meet immigration requirements and long-term planning goals.
4. Eligibility Rules for Student Dependants
For Nigerian students, the UK government currently allows dependants only in specific situations.
You may be eligible to bring dependants if:
You are studying a postgraduate research degree such as PhD or MRes
Your course lasts at least 9 months
Your institution is a recognised UK sponsor
Students on taught master’s programmes, undergraduate degrees, foundation courses, or pathway programmes are generally not eligible to bring dependants.
If you are unsure whether your course qualifies, understanding the difference between course types is important. This guide on UK foundation vs pathway programmes explains which programmes lead to full degree sponsorship and which do not, because rules change, confirming eligibility before applying is critical.
5. Documents Required for UK Dependant Visa
UK dependant visa applications are assessed strictly. Incomplete or inconsistent documentation is one of the most common reasons for refusal.
Typical documents include:
Marriage certificate or proof of relationship
Birth certificates for children
Evidence of living together for unmarried partners
Financial evidence showing maintenance funds
Valid passports for all applicants
Financial requirements are especially important for Nigerian applicants. Planning for costs early helps prevent last-minute issues. This article on hidden costs of studying abroad Nigerian students overlook gives useful insight into financial planning for dependants.
6. Common Mistakes That Cause Dependant Visa Refusals
Many dependant visa refusals happen due to avoidable mistakes.
Common issues include:
Applying when the main course does not qualify
Submitting weak proof of relationship
Inconsistent financial documents
Applying too late after the main visa is issued
Another frequent problem is misunderstanding the visa timeline. Dependants must usually apply at the same time or after the main applicant. This guide on step-by-step guide to getting a UK student visa helps clarify timelines and sequencing.
Applicants who want clarity before proceeding often benefit from professional review. AfriXGlobal Connect offers structured support through its UK Study Advisory.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but only students on eligible postgraduate research programmes or government-sponsored courses.
Yes. Most student dependants are allowed to work full-time, except for certain restrictions.
Yes, but only after the main applicant’s visa is approved.
Yes. Dependant children can attend UK schools.
Dependants will not be granted visas, even if financial requirements are met.