- University Homepage
- Schools & departments
- International Office
- Immigration
- Bringing your family
- Non-EU/EEA nationals
Non-EEA nationals
If you come from outside the European Economic Area (EEA), and are thinking of bringing your family to the UK with you as 'dependants', you need to check the rules and documents required.
Types of dependants
Dependants considered under UK immigration rules are:
- married partners
- civil partners
- unmarried partners in a relationship akin to marriage (with official evidence covering a period of at least two years)
- children under the age of 18
Details on the documents required can be found in the Points Based System Dependants’ guidance, on the UK Border Agency website.
The United Kingdom Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) also provide reliable guidance on bringing dependants to the UK:
Length or type of course
Since July 2011, students on an undergraduate programme of studies, unless sponsored by a government sponsorship, will be unable to bring dependants to the UK.
Generally, students who are on a postgraduate course of studies which lasts at least 12 months, can apply to bring dependants with them to the UK.
The International Guide
More information about dependants is available in the International Guide which contains sections on arranging childcare and applying for education for children. The International Guide will be sent to all new international students in their information pack about joining the University.
This article was published on May 8, 2013