UK Spouse Visa for Indian Students: A Step-by-Step Guide 2025

Bringing your spouse along while studying abroad can make your journey easier and more fulfilling. If you’re planning to pursue study in UK, understanding the UK Spouse Visa process is essential. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from visa types to work rights, financial planning, and more.

What Is a UK Spouse Visa for Indian Students?

For Indian students moving to the UK, the spouse visa in UK is officially called the Student Dependant Visa. This allows students on a postgraduate research degree (PhD or other doctoral/research‑based degree of 9 months or longer) — or those on any full‑time course of 6+ months with a government-funded scholarship — eligible to bring their partner or children with the Student Dependant Visa. Taught master’s or undergraduate students generally cannot bring dependants..

Key Features of the UK Student Dependant Visa:

Feature	Description
Visa Type	Student Dependant Visa (linked to primary student visa)
Eligibility	Married partners or civil unions
Work Rights	Full-time permitted (if main student is postgrad)
NHS Access	Included via Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Visa Fee	Approx. £524 per applicant
Duration	Same as the student’s course duration
Accommodation Proof	Required for visa approval

Why Study Abroad with Your Spouse?

Studying abroad already brings a range of emotional and financial challenges. Having your spouse with you can offer stability, emotional support, and shared financial responsibilities. For Indian students, adapting to a new country becomes smoother when your partner is there to share the experience.

Furthermore, your spouse can legally work full-time in the UK. This can significantly reduce the financial burden. Because of this dual advantage, many married students are now opting for the Spouse Visa route.

Challenges Faced by Married Indian Students

While bringing your partner to the UK has its advantages, it also comes with a unique set of challenges. First, visa documentation for dependants is extensive. You’ll need marriage certificates, financial proofs, and shared accommodation documents.

Common Hurdles:

• Proof of Genuine Relationship: The UK is strict about fraudulent marriages.
• Accommodation Requirements: You must show adequate housing.
• Budgeting for Two: Living expenses for couples are significantly higher.
• Adjustment Time: While one studies, the other may initially feel isolated before finding employment or community.

Nonetheless, with the right planning, these issues can be managed effectively.

Understanding the UK Spouse Visa

Let’s break down what this visa allows and the key documents required for application.

Who Qualifies?

• Spouse/civil partner of a Tier 4 or Student visa holder
• The primary student must be studying a postgraduate program for at least 9 months
• Must prove a genuine relationship

Essential Documents:

• Valid marriage certificate
• Passport for both parties
• Student visa confirmation (CAS letter)
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Proof of accommodation in the UK

When applying, ensure the financial criteria are met. For initial entry or permission, you (or your dependant) must show maintenance funds: for example £845/month if studying in London, or £680/month if studying outside London — calculated for up to 9 months (or the duration of permission, whichever is shorter). Dependant funds must be in addition to the funds shown for the student. After 12 months in the UK, dependants applying to extend may not need to resubmit financial evidence..

Work Rights, NHS, and Visa Costs

The spouse visa in UK offers multiple advantages over other study destinations. One of the biggest benefits is full-time work rights for the spouse.

Work Rights

Condition	Work Permission
Student in full-time postgraduate course	Yes, full-time
Student in undergraduate course	No

NHS Access

Every dependant pays the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) which grants them access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). This is approximately £1,035 per year but the exact amount depends on the length of stay and age, so check the latest IHS guidance when applying.

Visa Fees

Fee Type	Amount
Visa application fee	~£524
Immigration Health Surcharge	~£1,035/year
Biometric residence permit	Included

As you can see, the UK Spouse Visa provides considerable benefits in terms of work and healthcare.

Financial Planning Tips for Couples

Managing finances as a student couple abroad requires foresight and structure. The initial costs—visa, insurance, accommodation deposits—can be significant. However, your spouse’s ability to work full-time in the UK provides a major financial buffer.

1. Create a Joint Budget: Plan for monthly rent, food, transport, and unexpected expenses.
2. Look for Part-time Work Early: Spouses can work in most sectors, including retail and hospitality.
3. Use NHS Effectively: Avoid private insurance and use NHS benefits to save on health expenses.
4. Student Discounts: Make use of discounts available through student cards and public transport passes.

Together, these strategies can help make your UK journey both affordable and enjoyable.

Job Opportunities in the UK Spouse Visa

Thanks to the permissive work policy, the UK Spouse Visa enables dependents to work full-time. This opens up various sectors for employment.

Common Industries Hiring Spouses:

Sector	Average Hourly Wage	Role Examples
Retail	£9 – £12	Cashier, Sales Assistant
Hospitality	£10 – £14	Barista, Waiter
Admin/Clerical	£11 – £16	Receptionist, Office Assistant
Healthcare Support	£10 – £15	Caregiver, Assistant

Your partner can also pursue short-term certification programs (non-degree) to boost employability in fields like IT or healthcare. Many spouses eventually pursue their own independent career paths in the UK after gaining experience.

Checklist Before Applying for a UK Spouse Visa

Preparation is the key to a smooth application process. Here’s a quick checklist you can follow:

Pre-Application Checklist:

• Valid passports (student and spouse)
• Marriage certificate (translated if not in English)
• CAS letter from the university
• Proof of accommodation (rental agreement, etc.)
• Bank statements showing required funds
• Payment of visa fee and IHS
• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (for India)

If all documents are in order, the visa is usually processed within 3–6 weeks. Always apply well in advance of the course start date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can my spouse apply with me for the student visa?

Yes, both applications can be submitted together. Alternatively, your spouse can apply later as a dependant.

2. Can my spouse work on the UK Spouse Visa?

If you’re studying a full-time postgraduate course, your spouse can work full-time legally in the UK.

3. Is there a minimum fund requirement?

Yes. For dependants: £845/month (London), £680/month (outside London) for 9 months minimum.

4. Can we extend the visa together?

Yes. Your spouse’s visa will end with your student visa, so renewals must be done together.

5. What happens after the course ends?

If your spouse was already on a dependant visa during your Student visa, they may be able to continue as dependent under the Graduate Route. But this only applies if the original Student‑dependant visa eligibility was met..

Final Thoughts

Studying abroad doesn’t mean staying apart. With the UK Spouse Visa, Indian students can now bring their partners along and make the most of their time overseas—both academically and personally. From full-time work rights to NHS benefits, the UK makes it easier than ever to start your new chapter together.

Whether you’re just exploring or ready to apply, use this guide as your go-to resource for a smooth, informed journey to the UK.