Is Dependent Eligible for Postgraduate Study?

[smithalexk]

Hi,

My spouse and I are currently living in the UK on a Tier 5 visa, however, I have been told that I will be transferring to a Tier 2 visa over the summer since my current visa expires this year. My wife has been looking at studying for a Master's degree while also working part time over the next few years as a dependent on my visa. However, we would like to make sure she can work and perform postgraduate study as a dependent on my visa. Is this possible, or would she need to apply for a visa herself? If she does need to apply for this visa, would she be able to work on a student visa? Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!

[CR001]

I have been told that I will be transferring to a Tier 2 visa over the summer since my current visa expires this year.

You cannot 'transfer' or 'switch' within the UK to Tier 2. You have to apply from home country and it is a new entry clearance visa provided your sponsor completes the full and proper RLMT process.

My wife has been looking at studying for a Master's degree while also working part time over the next few years as a dependent on my visa. However, we would like to make sure she can work and perform postgraduate study as a dependent on my visa. Is this possible, or would she need to apply for a visa herself? If she does need to apply for this visa, would she be able to work on a student visa?

She can work and study on a Tier 2 dependent visa. She will be classed as an international student. The only restriction on her visa would be she cannot be a Dr or Dentist in training.

[smithalexk]

Great, thanks for the information. So, will this be the same for my wife if I stay on as a Tier 5 visa holder? She'd be under a Tier 5 visa then.

[CR001]

If your wife is applying as your dependent when you get Tier 2, she can apply to switch to PBS Dependent within the UK once you return with your Tier 2 General visa, provided her Tier 5 has not expired.

[smithalexk]

That sounds great. And I'm assuming she will be able to do this as well on a Tier V visa if I end up staying on the Tier V visa upon reapplication?