Advice for partners and families
If you are thinking of bringing your spouse/partner and children with you while studying in the UK, there are a number of things you will need to take into account.
Accommodation
Immigration
If you are entering the UK with immigration permission as a student, your family members may be able to come with you as your dependents.
| Scenario | Permission | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Family members are EEA or Swiss nationals | None | Free to accompany to UK; EEA or Swiss nationals not subject to UK immigration rules |
| Family members are non-EEA nationals and you are EEA or Swiss national | EEA Family Permit | Similar to a visa, applications made at nearest diplomatic post. |
| Both family members and you are non-EEA nationals | Visa | Apply for entry clearance as dependent of student, separate fee per dependent. |
Immigration requirements will vary and you will need to check entry requirements and obtain the necessary entry clearance before coming to the UK.
Working or studying in the UK
If you have permission to be in the UK as a student for 12 months or more, your dependents will normally be given permission to work. Your family member should check the immigration permission conditions on their entry permit or visa before starting work in the UK.
If you are in the UK with immigration permission as a student, any of your dependents can study either full-time or part-time. There is no need for them to have immigration status as a student.
Schools and childcare
The Halley Nursery is based on Frenchay Campus and offers priority to UWE staff and students.
If your children are aged between 5-16, they are eligible to attend a state school free of charge. Children who are older than 16 years can continue their paid education at an independent school or further education college.
Information on your nearest schools can be found on the following sites:
Please note: as a UK residential address is required before you can apply for a school place for your children, it is not normally possible to make school applications before you arrive in the UK.
Healthcare
Depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay in the UK, your entitlement to free medical treatment will vary.
| Scenario | Treatment | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Family members are EEA (European Economic Area) or Swiss nationals | Free | Will need to obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from home country which entitles holder to full NHS treatment. |
| Family members are non-EEA nationals and you are EEA or Swiss national | Free | Family members must be in the UK as your dependents, not as visitors. |
| Both family members and you are non-EEA nationals and your course is less than 6 months | Limited | Free accident and emergency treatment only, advised to take out personal medical cover. |
To receive medical treatment in the UK, you and your family should be registered with a National Health Service (NHS) doctor.
Page last updated 4 May 2011