UK Dependent, Spouse/Partner Family Visa Consultants in Ahmedabad & Surat

If you’re planning to live, work, or study in the UK and want to bring your family along, the UK Dependent Visa is the pathway for you. This visa allows family members, such as your spouse, partner, children, or parents, to join you in the UK. Whether you’re a UK citizen or a visa holder, SWEC Visa is here to assist you through the complex application process, ensuring you and your loved ones can reunite in the UK with ease.

Types of UK Dependent Visas

Several types of UK visas allow dependents to join the primary visa holder or citizen in the UK. These include:

• PBS Dependent Visa: For dependents of individuals with a Points-Based System visa (such as Skilled Worker visa holders).
• Family Visa: For family members of UK citizens or individuals with settled status.
• Tier 2 Dependent Visa: For the dependents of Tier 2 visa holders.
• Partner, Spouse, or Child Visa: For British citizens and those with settled status to bring their spouse, children, or parents to the UK.

Features of the UK Dependent Visa

• Dependents can live, study, and work in the UK (with certain restrictions).
• The visa duration often matches that of the primary visa holder.
• Opportunities for permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years of residence.
• Visa extensions available for eligible dependents.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Dependent Visa

To qualify for a UK Dependent Visa, you must be related to the primary visa holder or UK citizen in one of the following ways:

1. Spouse or Civil Partner: Must prove a legally recognized relationship or a cohabitation of at least 2 years.
2. Unmarried Partner: Must have lived together for at least 2 years.
3. Children:
   • Under 18 years old.
   • Over 18 if they are already living in the UK as dependents.
4. Parents: Can apply if being sponsored by their child who is a UK citizen or permanent resident.

Additionally, you must demonstrate:

• Financial stability: The primary visa holder or UK citizen must show they can financially support their dependents without recourse to public funds.
• English Language Proficiency: Depending on the visa type, some dependents may need to prove their English language skills.

UK Dependent Visa Application Process

The process of applying for a UK Dependent Visa involves several steps. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Gather Required Documents:

   • Valid passport and travel history.
   • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
   • Financial evidence (bank statements of the sponsor showing adequate funds).
   • English language proficiency proof (if applicable).
   • Immigration status and legal documents of the primary visa holder.

2. Submit the Application:

   • Apply online through the UK government’s visa portal.
   • Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

3. Biometrics:

   • Provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at a visa application center.

4. Receive the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP):

   • Once approved, you’ll receive your BRP, allowing you to live in the UK.

5. Visa Approval and Timeline:

   • The processing time typically takes 3-8 weeks, depending on the country of application and visa type.

Documents Required for UK Dependent Visa

You’ll need the following documents to apply for a UK Dependent Visa:

• Valid passport.
• Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
• Financial evidence from the sponsor.
• Completed visa application form.
• Biometric information.
• English language test results (if required).

UK Dependent Visa Fees

The cost of the UK Dependent Visa varies depending on the visa type and the applicant’s country. General costs include:

• Application fee: Typically ranges between £500 to £2,000, depending on the visa type and the number of dependents.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year per applicant.

Benefits of the UK Dependent Visa

• Live and Work in the UK: Dependents can work (with certain restrictions) and study in the UK, allowing them to fully integrate into UK society.
• Pathway to Settlement: After 5 years of continuous residence, dependents may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to permanent residency in the UK.
• Freedom of Movement: Dependents can travel freely in and out of the UK as long as their visa remains valid.

Key Points to Remember

• No Recourse to Public Funds: Dependents cannot access public funds or benefits during their stay.
• Work and Study Flexibility: Most dependents are free to work or study without restrictions, except for certain jobs like doctors in training or professional sports coaches.
• Visa Extension: Dependents can apply for visa extensions as long as the primary visa holder remains eligible and continues to reside in the UK.

If eligible, your partner and children can apply to join or remain with you in the UK as dependants. They will need to submit separate applications. If successful, their visa will generally expire on the same date as yours. However, if a child’s parents hold visas with different end dates, the child’s visa will align with the earlier expiration date.

Requirements for UK Dependent Visa

Partner’s Eligibility

To bring your partner to the UK, you must prove one of the following:

• You’re in a civil partnership or marriage recognized in the UK.
• You’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when applying.
• If not living together, provide proof of an ongoing commitment to each other, such as:
  • Regular communication.
  • Financial support.
  • Shared responsibilities for children.
  • Evidence of time spent together (holidays, events, etc.).

Child’s Eligibility

A dependent child must meet the following conditions:

• Live with you unless they’re in full-time education (like boarding school or university).
• Not be married or in a civil partnership.
• You’ll need to provide proof of address, which can include:
  • Bank statement or credit card bills.
  • NHS registration document.
  • An official letter from the university or college.

Financial Requirements for UK Dependent Visa

You, or your partner or children, must have sufficient financial resources to support themselves while in the UK. The financial requirement is:

• £285 for your partner.
• £315 for one child.
• £200 for each additional child.

For example, if you’re applying for a partner and one child, you’ll need £600 (£285 + £315), in addition to the £1,270 required to support yourself. The funds must be available for at least 28 consecutive days, and the 28th day should be within 31 days of submitting the application.

In some cases, you may not need to show proof of funds if:

• You’ve been in the UK for at least 12 months with a valid visa.
• Your employer confirms they will cover your family’s expenses for the first month (this must be stated on your Certificate of Sponsorship).

Applying for UK Dependent Visa: Steps and Process

Apply from Outside the UK

Your partner and children must apply online as a dependent from outside the UK. They’ll need your Global Web Form (GWF) or Unique Application Number (UAN), which you’ll receive during your visa application process.

Each family member must:

• Complete a separate application.
• Pay the visa fee.
• Provide proof of identity (biometrics or using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app).

Applications are usually processed within 3 weeks. A faster decision may be available for an additional fee.

Apply from Inside the UK (Extend or Switch Visa)

If you’re extending or switching your visa, your partner or child can apply to extend or switch their visa as well. Their visa must be extended before their current visa expires.

Children who turn 18 during your stay can also extend their visa as a dependent.

However, your partner or child cannot switch to a dependent visa if they are currently in the UK on certain visa types, such as:

• Visit Visa.
• Short-term Student Visa.
• Parent of a Child Student Visa.
• Seasonal Worker Visa, etc.

Dependent Visa for Care Workers and Senior Care Workers

If you’re a Care Worker or Senior Care Worker switching to a Skilled Worker Visa, your family cannot apply to join you or remain in the UK unless:

• You were on a Skilled Worker visa before 11 March 2024.
• You’re extending your Skilled Worker visa or changing jobs within the same occupation code.

Identity Verification and Biometrics

As part of the application process, your partner and children will need to prove their identity. This can be done by:

• Having their fingerprints and photographs taken at a visa application center to get a biometric residence permit.
• Using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan their identity document.

They must not travel outside the UK while their application is processed, as it may be withdrawn.

Children Born in the UK

If your child is born in the UK during your stay, they do not automatically gain British citizenship. You’ll need to apply for their dependent visa to travel in and out of the UK.

You’ll also need to provide a full UK birth certificate showing both parents’ names.

Visa Processing Time

For applications submitted from within the UK, decisions are generally made within 8 weeks. A faster decision may be available, and applicants will be informed during the process if this option is available.

What Can Your Partner or Child Do on a Dependent Visa?

Once granted, your partner or child will have certain rights, including:

• The ability to work (except as a sportsperson or coach).
• The ability to study.
• Travel abroad and return to the UK.
• Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain if they’ve lived in the UK for 5 years and meet the eligibility criteria.

However, they cannot:

• Apply for most benefits or public funds.
• Receive a State Pension.

How SWEC Can Help with Your UK Dependent Visa Application

At SWEC Visa, we are dedicated to making your UK Dependent Visa application process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our experienced immigration experts provide tailored guidance and support at every step. Here’s how we can assist you:

1. Personalized Consultation

We offer one-on-one consultations to understand your specific situation and requirements. Whether you’re applying for a spouse, child, or another dependent, we ensure you’re fully aware of the eligibility criteria and documentation needed.

2. Documentation Assistance

We help you gather and organize all necessary documents, such as proof of relationship, financial records, and identity documents, ensuring your application meets all UK visa requirements.

3. Application Preparation

Our team will guide you through the online application process, ensuring all forms are completed accurately and that the required information is submitted without any errors that could delay your application.

4. Financial Requirement Support

We assist you in calculating and demonstrating that you meet the financial requirements for your dependents, helping you avoid common pitfalls.

5. Biometric and Identity Verification

We’ll guide your dependents on how to complete their biometric enrollment and identity verification, whether through a visa application center or the UK Immigration ID Check app.

6. Visa Tracking and Updates

Once your application is submitted, we provide regular updates on the status of your visa, helping you stay informed and prepared for any next steps.

7. Post-Visa Support

After your dependents receive their visa, we continue to assist with travel preparations, housing, and any other practical concerns related to settling in the UK.

At SWEC, we prioritize family reunification and ensure your loved ones can join you in the UK without any hassle. Consult SWEC’s professional visa and immigration experts for comprehensive assistance with your UK Dependent Visa application.