UK Dependent Visa: A Complete Guide for Family Reunification

The UK Dependent Visa is designed to allow family members of individuals living in the UK to join them and stay legally. This visa serves as a critical pathway for families to reunite, ensuring that dependents can live, work, and study in the UK under certain conditions. Whether you are a spouse, child, parent, or other eligible family member, this visa provides an opportunity to live together in the UK.

With thousands of people moving to the UK for education, work, or permanent settlement, the UK Dependent Visa plays a crucial role in family reunification. It allows dependents to benefit from the UK’s healthcare system, educational institutions, and employment opportunities.

Who Can Apply for a UK Dependent Visa?

The eligibility for a UK Dependent Visa depends on the main visa holder’s status. You may apply for a dependent visa if you are a:

• Spouse or partner of a UK visa holder or a British citizen.
• Child (under 18) of a UK visa holder or British citizen.
• Parent of a British citizen or a person settled in the UK.
• Other family member (such as an adult dependent or elderly relative) who relies on a UK-based sponsor for financial or medical support.

The application process varies based on the specific visa category under which the main applicant has been granted leave to stay in the UK.

Types of UK Dependent Visas

There are different categories of dependent visas, each catering to a specific relationship with the primary visa holder.

1. Student Dependent Visa

This visa is for family members of international students studying in the UK on a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4 Visa). Only postgraduate students enrolled in courses lasting 9 months or more at a UK higher education institution can bring their dependents.

• Who can apply?
  • Spouse or unmarried partner of the student.
  • Children under 18 years of age.
• Key conditions:
  • The student must have adequate financial resources to support dependents.
  • Dependents may work full-time in the UK (except for children).
  • Access to UK healthcare (NHS) is available for dependents.

2. Work Dependent Visa

Dependents of individuals holding a UK Skilled Worker Visa, Health & Care Worker Visa, or similar work-related visas can apply under this category.

• Who can apply?
  • Spouse, unmarried partner, or children under 18 of the primary visa holder.
• Key conditions:
  • The main visa holder must have a valid work visa and meet financial requirements.
  • Dependents can work and study in the UK without restrictions.
  • The visa remains valid as long as the main applicant’s work visa is active.

3. Spouse/Partner Visa

This visa is for partners of British citizens or individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.

• Who can apply?
  • Legally married spouses.
  • Civil partners.
  • Unmarried partners (must prove a relationship of at least 2 years).
• Key conditions:
  • Proof of a genuine and subsisting relationship is required.
  • The UK-based partner must meet the financial requirement of £18,600 per year (higher if children are included).
  • The applicant must pass an English language test (unless exempt).
  • Initial visa is granted for 2.5 years, extendable to 5 years, leading to ILR.

4. Child Dependent Visa

This visa allows children to join their parents in the UK. It applies to:

• Children of British citizens.
• Children of individuals with UK work, student, or dependent visas.
• Key conditions:
  • Child must be under 18 years old at the time of application.
  • Must not be living an independent life (i.e., not married or financially self-sufficient).
  • If only one parent is in the UK, proof of sole responsibility may be required.

5. Parent Dependent Visa

This visa applies to parents of British citizens or those settled in the UK who require care.

• Who can apply?
  • Elderly parents who need care from their UK-based child.
• Key conditions:
  • Must prove long-term medical or care dependency on the UK-based child.
  • The UK-based sponsor must prove financial ability to support the parent without claiming public funds.
  • This visa is difficult to obtain unless exceptional circumstances exist.

6. Other Family Visas

The UK also offers dependent visas for:

• Adult dependent relatives who require long-term care.
• Elderly relatives with no support in their home country.
• Extended family members in some cases (though this is rare).

These visas require strong evidence of dependency, medical needs, and financial support from the UK-based sponsor.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Dependent Visa

General Requirements for All Dependents

Regardless of the visa type, all dependents must meet the following conditions:

1. Proof of Relationship:
   • Marriage certificate (for spouses).
   • Birth certificate (for children).
   • Proof of cohabitation for at least 2 years (for unmarried partners).
2. Financial Dependency and Support Proof:
   • The main visa holder must show proof of sufficient funds to support dependents.
   • No access to public funds (government benefits).
3. English Language Requirement (if applicable):
   • Spouses and partners may need to pass an English language test (A1 Level) unless exempt.
   • Children and elderly dependents are generally exempt.
4. Intention to Live Together in the UK:
   • Dependents must plan to live with the main applicant in the UK.
   • Accommodation details must be provided.

Specific Eligibility Criteria Based on Visa Type

Spouse/Partner Visa Requirements

• Must prove a genuine and subsisting relationship.
• Financial requirement of £18,600 per year (increases if children are included).
• English language test requirement (unless exempt).

Child Dependent Visa Requirements

• Must be under 18 years at the time of application.
• Cannot be married or leading an independent life.
• If applying with one parent, must prove the other parent is deceased or uninvolved.

Parent Dependent Visa Requirements

• Only available for elderly parents who require full-time care.
• Must prove financial dependency on the UK-based child.
• UK-based sponsor must demonstrate adequate housing and financial means.

Required Documents for a UK Dependent Visa

Providing accurate and complete documentation is crucial for a successful UK Dependent Visa application. The exact list of documents varies based on the visa category and the dependent’s relationship with the primary visa holder. Below is a comprehensive list of essential documents:

1. Valid Passport & Photographs

• A valid passport (must be valid for the entire visa duration).
• At least one blank page for the visa stamp.
• Recent passport-size photographs (as per UKVI specifications).

2. Proof of Relationship

• Marriage certificate (for spouses and civil partners).
• Birth certificate (for children applying as dependents).
• Adoption papers (if applicable).
• Cohabitation proof (for unmarried partners, such as joint bank statements, rental agreements, utility bills).

3. Financial Support Documents

• Bank statements showing sufficient funds to support the dependent.
• Payslips or salary certificates (for sponsors working in the UK).
• Tax returns or employment contracts (to confirm financial stability).
• Sponsorship letter from the primary visa holder stating financial responsibility for dependents.

4. English Language Proficiency Proof (If Required)

• Spouses and partners applying for a UK Dependent Visa must prove English proficiency by:
  • Passing an approved English language test (A1 Level or above).
  • Holding a degree taught in English.
  • Coming from an English-speaking country (as per UKVI guidelines).

Children and elderly dependents are exempt from this requirement.

5. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results

• Required for applicants from high TB-risk countries (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, etc.).
• The test must be conducted at a UK-approved medical center.
• A valid TB clearance certificate is necessary for visa approval.

6. Certificate of Sponsorship (For Work-Dependent Visas)

• If applying as a dependent of a UK Skilled Worker or Health & Care Worker, the primary visa holder must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by their employer.

7. Accommodation Proof in the UK

• Rental agreement or mortgage documents showing where the family will stay.
• Utility bills or council tax documents as proof of residence.
• Letter from the primary visa holder confirming accommodation arrangements.

8. Additional Supporting Documents (Case-Specific)

• Legal custody proof (if a child is applying with only one parent).
• Medical dependency proof (for elderly parents needing care).
• Previous visa refusals (if applicable) along with an explanation letter.

Ensuring that all documents are clear, up-to-date, and correctly formatted is essential for avoiding unnecessary delays or rejections. If you need professional assistance in compiling your documents, SWEC Visa can guide you through the process.

Application Process for a UK Dependent Visa

Applying for a UK Dependent Visa involves multiple steps, and even minor errors can lead to delays or rejections. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth application process:

Step 1: Determine the Right Type of Dependent Visa

Before applying, identify which UK Dependent Visa category applies to you:

• Student Dependent Visa (for families of UK student visa holders).
• Work Dependent Visa (for families of UK work visa holders).
• Spouse/Partner Visa (for spouses and partners of UK citizens and residents).
• Child or Parent Dependent Visa (for children or parents of UK residents).

Step 2: Check Eligibility & Gather Documents

• Review the eligibility criteria based on the dependent visa type.
• Collect all required documents (listed above) to avoid missing paperwork.

Step 3: Apply Online via the UK Home Office Website

• Visit the UKVI official website and fill out the online visa application form.
• Provide accurate details matching the information on your documents.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee

• Visa fees depend on the visa type and duration:
  • Spouse/Partner Visa: £1,538 (outside UK), £1,048 (inside UK).
  • Work & Student Dependent Visas: Approx. £285 per dependent.
• Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for access to NHS services.

Step 5: Schedule & Attend a Biometric Appointment

• Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
• Provide fingerprints, digital photographs, and signature.

Step 6: Submit Supporting Documents

• Upload documents online or submit them at the visa center.
• Keep scanned copies as a backup for reference.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision & Track Application

• UKVI usually processes dependent visas within 8-12 weeks (faster with priority service).
• Use the UKVI online tracking system to check your application status.

Financial Requirements for a UK Dependent Visa

Who Needs to Meet the Financial Criteria?

The financial requirements must be met by:

• The main visa holder (in case of Work or Student Dependent Visa).
• The UK sponsor (for Spouse, Child, or Parent Dependent Visas).

Required Minimum Savings or Income Proof

• Spouse/Partner Visa:
  • Minimum annual income of £18,600 (additional £3,800 for first child and £2,400 for each additional child).
  • Savings of £62,500 (if income requirement is not met).
• Work & Student Dependents:
  • Proof of at least £285 for a spouse, £315 for one child, and £200 for each additional child.
• Parent & Other Dependents:
  • Proof of financial dependency on the UK sponsor.

Bank Balance Requirements for Different Visa Categories

• Savings must be held for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
• Funds must be in a regulated financial institution (recognized by UKVI).

Proof of Employment/Income Sources for the Main Visa Holder

• Payslips for the last 6 months.
• Employment contract & tax returns.
• Proof of self-employment income (if applicable).

Meeting the financial requirement is critical for visa approval. SWEC Visa offers expert financial guidance to ensure compliance with UKVI rules and maximize your visa success rate.

Processing Time & Fees for a UK Dependent Visa

Processing Time for a UK Dependent Visa

The standard processing time for a UK Dependent Visa depends on the type of visa and the applicant’s location:

• Outside the UK:
  • Standard processing: 8-12 weeks (varies based on case complexity).
  • Priority service: 5 working days (if available).
  • Super-priority service: 24 hours (for urgent applications).
• Inside the UK (switching/extending visa):
  • Standard processing: 8 weeks.
  • Priority service: 5 working days (if selected).
  • Super-priority service: 24 hours.

Priority & Super-Priority Processing Options

For those needing faster processing, UKVI offers premium services:

Visa Application Fees for Different Dependent Categories

The cost of a UK Dependent Visa varies based on the main visa holder’s category.

Additional Charges (Health Surcharge, Priority Fees, etc.)

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
  • £1,035 per year per adult.
  • £776 per year per child.
• Biometric Enrollment Fee: £19.20 (for applications inside the UK).
• Document Scanning & Upload Services: Fees vary based on country.

It is advisable to use the UK Home Office Fee Calculator to check the latest charges before applying.

Rights & Restrictions of UK Dependent Visa Holders

While the UK Dependent Visa provides several benefits, it also comes with certain restrictions.

What Dependents Can Do in the UK

Work Rights (Full-Time & Part-Time Employment)

• Most dependents can work full-time or part-time in the UK.
• Dependents of Skilled Worker, Health & Care Worker, and Student Visa holders can take up any job without restrictions.
• Some dependent visa categories, such as visitor visa dependents, do not allow employment.

Study Opportunities

• Dependents can enroll in full-time or part-time education at UK institutions.
• Children of work or student visa holders can access free schooling in UK public schools.
• Dependents do not qualify for home student tuition fees at universities and must pay international fees unless they obtain ILR.

Access to Healthcare (NHS Services)

• Visa holders who pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) can access free NHS healthcare.
• Some treatments, such as dental care and prescriptions, may require additional payments.

What Dependents Cannot Do in the UK

Restrictions on Public Funds (Benefits, Social Security)

• UK Dependent Visa holders cannot claim welfare benefits, housing support, or social security payments.
• The visa stamp states “No Recourse to Public Funds” (NRPF).

Work Limitations (Based on Visa Type)

• Dependents on certain visa types, such as student visa dependents, cannot work as doctors or professional sportspersons.
• Self-employment may be restricted based on visa conditions.

UK Dependent Visa Extension & Renewal

Dependents must extend or renew their visa before it expires to continue staying legally in the UK.

Eligibility for Extension

To qualify for a UK Dependent Visa extension, you must:

• Be living with the primary visa holder in the UK.
• Provide updated proof of relationship (marriage certificate, cohabitation proof).
• Meet financial requirements (bank statements, salary slips).
• Have not breached UK visa conditions.

Documents Required for Renewal

• Valid passport (for all applicants).
• Proof of relationship (updated marriage certificate, birth certificate, cohabitation proof).
• Financial proof (recent bank statements, employment contract).
• Updated accommodation proof (rental/mortgage documents).
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applicable).

Process of Applying for a UK Dependent Visa Extension

1. Apply Online
   • Complete the FLR (M) or FLR (FP) form on the UK Home Office website.
2. Pay Visa Fees & IHS
   • Fees remain the same as the initial application.
   • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) must be paid again.
3. Biometric Appointment
   • Provide fingerprints and a digital photo at a UK visa center.
4. Submit Updated Documents
   • Upload all required documents through the UKVCAS portal.
5. Wait for a Decision
   • Standard processing: 8 weeks.
   • Priority: 5 working days (£500 extra).
   • Super-priority: 24 hours (£1,000 extra).

Impact of Visa Extension on Settlement (ILR – Indefinite Leave to Remain)

A UK Dependent Visa can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing permanent residency after five years.

To qualify for ILR, dependents must:

• Have continuously lived in the UK for 5 years.
• Meet the financial and English language requirements.
• Pass the Life in the UK Test.

Once ILR is granted, dependents can apply for British citizenship after one year.

Switching from a UK Dependent Visa to Other Visa Categories

A UK Dependent Visa holder may choose to transition to a different visa category based on their career, study, or settlement goals. However, switching is subject to eligibility requirements and the conditions of their current visa.

Transition to Work Visas (Skilled Worker, Innovator, etc.)

If you are on a UK Dependent Visa and wish to work independently, you may switch to a work visa such as:

• Skilled Worker Visa – Requires a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The salary threshold is at least £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour.
• Health and Care Worker Visa – Open to healthcare professionals working for the NHS or UK care sector.
• Innovator Founder Visa – Suitable for entrepreneurs starting an innovative UK business. Requires an endorsed business plan.
• Global Talent Visa – For highly skilled professionals in science, digital technology, arts, or research fields.

Eligibility for Switching to a Work Visa

• Must meet the specific work visa requirements, such as job sponsorship, salary threshold, or skills assessment.
• Cannot be on a visitor visa or short-term visa while applying.
• Must apply before the UK Dependent Visa expires.

Transition to a Student Visa

Dependents who want to pursue higher education in the UK may switch to a Student Visa (Tier 4). Requirements include:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK university.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs.
• English language proficiency (IELTS, PTE, or other accepted tests).

Eligibility for Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR)

A UK Dependent Visa can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing permanent residency. To qualify:

• The dependent must have lived in the UK for at least five years continuously.
• Must have a valid visa leading to settlement, such as a Spouse Visa or Skilled Worker Dependent Visa.
• Must meet financial requirements and pass the Life in the UK Test.
• No history of visa violations or criminal offenses.

Common Reasons for UK Dependent Visa Rejection & How to Avoid Them

Top Reasons for UK Dependent Visa Refusals

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
   • Missing key documents such as marriage certificates, financial proof, or biometric details can lead to rejection.
   • How to avoid: Double-check required documents before submission.
2. Insufficient Financial Proof
   • The UK Home Office requires dependents to show they have adequate funds to support themselves.
   • How to avoid: Ensure bank statements meet the minimum financial threshold for dependents.
3. Lack of Proof of Genuine Relationship
   • For spouse or partner visas, the Home Office may suspect a sham marriage if sufficient evidence is not provided.
   • How to avoid: Submit marriage certificates, joint bank statements, rental agreements, and photos to prove the relationship.
4. Failing the English Language Requirement
   • Some dependent visas, such as the Spouse Visa, require an approved English test.
   • How to avoid: Take an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) before applying.
5. Errors in the Application Form
   • Incorrect personal details, employment history, or visa category selection can result in rejection.
   • How to avoid: Carefully review the application before submission or seek professional assistance.

How to Avoid UK Dependent Visa Rejection

• Ensure all required documents are accurate and complete.
• Meet the financial and English language requirements.
• Submit strong evidence of a genuine relationship for spouse or partner visas.
• Review the visa application form thoroughly before submission.
• Consult professional visa experts for guidance to avoid common mistakes.

Steps to Take If the Visa Is Refused

If a UK Dependent Visa application is rejected, there are two main options:

1. Appeal the Decision (if eligible)
   • If the refusal is due to a legal mistake by UKVI, an applicant may file an administrative review or an appeal.
   • Appeals are typically allowed for human rights-based refusals, such as spouse or partner visas.
2. Reapply with a Stronger Application
   • If the refusal was due to missing documents or errors, correct the mistakes and submit a new application.
   • Ensure the new application addresses the reasons for previous refusal.

For professional assistance in appeals or reapplications, SWEC Visa provides expert legal support to maximize approval chances.

Conclusion

Applying for a UK Dependent Visa requires careful planning, proper documentation, and an understanding of visa regulations. To ensure a successful application, dependents must:

• Understand processing times, fees, and priority options.
• Know their rights and restrictions while in the UK.
• Prepare for visa extension, renewal, or switching options.
• Avoid common visa rejection reasons by submitting a complete and error-free application.

Why Choose SWEC Visa for Your UK Dependent Visa Application?

At SWEC Visa, we specialize in UK visa applications, extensions, and appeals, ensuring you receive expert guidance at every step.

• Expert visa consultation with tailored advice on eligibility and documentation.
• Application review and submission to ensure accuracy and avoid rejections.
• Visa switching and ILR support for dependents transitioning to work or study visas.
• Reapplication and appeal assistance to maximize approval chances after refusals.

Contact SWEC Visa today for professional support on your UK Dependent Visa application.