Studying in the UK can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also come with a lot of questions and concerns. One common question that international students have is whether or not their spouse can work while they study. The answer to this question depends on a few different factors, so let’s take a closer look.
Spouse Visa Requirements
If your spouse wants to work while you study in the UK, they will need to apply for a spouse visa. In order to be eligible for a spouse visa, there are a few requirements that must be met:
- Your spouse must be over the age of 18
- Your spouse must be in a genuine relationship with you
- Your spouse must have enough money to support themselves without working
- Your spouse must pass an English language test
If your spouse meets all of these requirements, they will be able to apply for a spouse visa that allows them to work in the UK.
Working Hours
If your spouse is granted a spouse visa that allows them to work in the UK, there are some restrictions on the number of hours they can work. Specifically, they are only allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time. However, during holidays and other periods of non-term time, they are allowed to work full-time.
Applying for a National Insurance Number
In order to work legally in the UK, your spouse will need to apply for a National Insurance Number. This is a unique number that is required for tax and social security purposes. Your spouse can apply for a National Insurance Number by contacting the National Insurance Number application line or by applying online.
Additional Considerations
While it is possible for your spouse to work in the UK while you study, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind. For example, if your spouse is working, they may not have as much time to spend with you or to participate in extracurricular activities. Additionally, if they are working, they may need to pay taxes and may need to budget carefully in order to support themselves.
It’s also important to note that the rules regarding spouse visas and working in the UK can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the UK government’s immigration website for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
In summary, if your spouse meets the requirements for a spouse visa and is granted permission to work, they can legally work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during non-term time. However, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind, such as the impact on your relationship and budgeting. By staying informed and planning ahead, you can ensure that your time studying in the UK is enjoyable and successful for both you and your spouse.