Dependent Visa UK: Requirements and Application Process

The UK Dependent Visa is a critical immigration route for families wishing to stay together while navigating life in the UK. It enables family members of visa holders to join them, supporting family unity during work, study, or business ventures in the UK. Whether you're a Skilled Worker, international student, or someone with ancestry rights, understanding the rules, application process, and recent policy changes is vital.

With updated rules in 2024 and varying requirements across visa categories, this guide provides an accurate, in-depth explanation of the UK Dependent Visa, ensuring your family’s transition to the UK is smooth and stress-free.

What is a UK Dependent Visa?

A Dependent Visa allows close family members of UK visa holders to join them. Eligible visa categories include:

• Worker Routes: Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker, and Temporary Worker visas.
• Study Visas: International students and researchers.
• Business Visas: Innovators, Start-up visas, and Sole Representatives.
• Ancestry Visas: Based on UK ancestry rights.

Key Benefits:

• Dependents can live, work, and study in the UK.
• Access to NHS healthcare.
• No need for additional sponsorship for employment.

PBS Dependent Visa: A subset of dependent visas for family members of individuals on Points-Based System visas (e.g., Skilled Worker).

Key 2024 Changes to the Dependent Visa Rules

The UK government has revised dependent visa regulations to align with its immigration objectives. Key changes include:

• From January 2024: International students can only bring dependents if enrolled in PhD or postgraduate research programmes.
• From March 2024: Care workers and senior care workers are no longer allowed to sponsor dependents.

These changes highlight the importance of keeping up with current immigration policies.

Who Can Apply for a Dependent Visa?

Eligibility for a UK Dependent Visa depends on the relationship with the primary visa holder, who is also known as the "main applicant." Qualifying dependents include:

1. Spouse or Partner:
   • Must be married or in a civil partnership.
   • Unmarried or same-sex partners must prove a genuine, subsisting relationship of at least two years.
2. Children:
   • Under 18 years old at the time of application.
   • Dependent children over 16 must prove financial reliance and cohabitation with the main applicant.
3. Adult Dependent Relatives (in specific cases):
   • Includes elderly parents or relatives needing long-term care.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet several conditions:

1. Proof of Relationship:
   • Marriage or civil partnership certificates for spouses.
   • Birth certificates for children.
2. Financial Requirements:
   • £285 for a partner.
   • £315 for the first child and £200 for each additional child.
   • Exceptions: A-rated sponsors may certify maintenance, removing the need for proof of funds.
3. Cohabitation:
   • Dependents must intend to live with the sponsor in the UK.
4. Language and Knowledge Tests:
   • No English proficiency is required for the dependent visa, but it is necessary for settlement (ILR).

How to Apply for a UK Dependent Visa

The process varies depending on whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK.

1. Complete the Application Form:
   • Submit an online application, linking it to the main applicant’s Unique Application Number (UAN).
2. Pay the Necessary Fees:
   • Cover the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Use our Visa Fees Calculator to estimate costs.
3. Provide Required Documents:
   • Passport or travel document.
   • Marriage or birth certificates.
   • Financial evidence or certification from an A-rated sponsor.
4. Attend Biometric Appointment:
   • Provide fingerprints and photographs at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
5. Processing Time:
   • Standard processing is 3-8 weeks. Priority services can expedite this to 5 days or even 24 hours, depending on availability.

Document Checklist for Dependent Visa Applications

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

• Passport or valid travel document.
• Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificate).
• Financial evidence, such as bank statements or sponsor certification.
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable).
• Criminal record check (if required).

Failure to provide accurate documentation can lead to application rejection or delays.

Dependent Visa Costs

The dependent visa cost aligns with the primary visa holder’s type and duration. Additional expenses include the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Sample Costs:

• Skilled Worker Dependent (3 years): £713.
• Skilled Worker Dependent (5 years): £1,420.
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035/year for adults, £776/year for children.

For a detailed cost breakdown, check the Government Fees page.

Rights and Restrictions of Dependent Visa Holders

Dependent visa holders enjoy numerous rights:

• Work: Full employment rights without sponsorship, except for roles such as doctors/dentists in training or professional athletes.
• Study: Enrolment in educational institutions.
• Healthcare: Free access to NHS services.

However, they cannot:

• Apply for public funds (e.g., housing benefits).

Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Dependents can apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous residence if:

• The main applicant qualifies for ILR.
• Partners maintain a genuine relationship.
• Children remain financially dependent and cohabit with their parents.

ILR allows permanent residency, with the option to apply for British citizenship after one year.

Common Challenges in Applying for a Dependent Visa

1. Proving the Relationship:
   • Ensure documents are current and meet UKVI standards.
2. Meeting Financial Requirements:
   • Maintain necessary funds for at least 28 days before applying.
3. Delays in Processing:
   • Double-check all documentation to avoid errors or omissions.

If complications arise, consult immigration experts for guidance or explore our Sponsor Management System resources.

Processing Times and Priority Services

• Outside the UK: Standard processing takes 3 weeks. Priority service reduces this to 5 days.
• Inside the UK: Standard processing is 8 weeks, with super-priority services offering decisions within 24 hours.

Priority services are subject to availability, so early booking is recommended.

FAQs

Can dependent visa holders work in the UK?
Yes, they can work without sponsorship but are restricted from certain professions.

What happens if the main visa holder’s visa is revoked?
Dependents’ visas may also be affected. For more, visit our Sponsor Licence Revocation page.

Can dependents apply for public funds?
No, dependents are prohibited from accessing public funds.

Conclusion

The UK Dependent Visa is a vital route for keeping families united while pursuing opportunities in the UK. With recent changes in 2024, understanding the application process, eligibility requirements, and associated costs is essential for a successful application.

If you need assistance or further clarification, get in touch with Borderless today. Our experts are ready to guide you through the process and ensure your family’s smooth transition to the UK.