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Dependent Visa

lexenlaw.co.uk > Dependent Visa

Understanding the Purpose and Scope of the UK Dependent Visa

A UK Dependent Visa allows family members—spouses, civil or unmarried partners, and children under 18 to join or stay with someone legally living in the UK on an eligible visa route. It ensures families can stay together while the main visa holder studies, works, or builds a business in the UK.

Key Points:

Enables family reunification with main visa holders in the UK

Covers spouse/civil partner, unmarried partner, children under 18

Requires proof of relationship, cohabitation (if unmarried), and funds

Online application with biometric verification or ID app

Some dependent visas allow you to work in the UK without needing employer sponsorship giving you freedom in your career choices

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    Eligible UK Visa Categories That Allow You to Bring Dependants

    Not all UK visas allow dependants to join you. Only certain work, business, student, and special visa routes qualify for dependants to live with the main visa holder in the UK.

    Key Points:

    Long-term work visas: Skilled Worker, Scale-up, Global Business Mobility, International Sportsperson, Minister of Religion

    Short-term work visas: Creative Worker, Graduate Trainee, High Potential Individual (HPI), Religious Worker, Government Authorised Exchange

    Special programmes: BNO, Turkish Worker, Turkish Businessperson, Representative of Overseas Business

    2024 rule change: Care workers/senior care workers after 11 March 2024 cannot bring dependants unless previously sponsored

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    Criteria for Dependant Partners, Children, and Unmarried Couples

    The eligibility rules vary based on whether you are applying as a spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or dependent child. Each group has specific requirements to meet.

    Key Points:

    Partners:

    Marriage/civil partnership valid under local law

    Unmarried partners: 2+ years’ cohabitation proof

    Both partners must be 18+ at application

    Intend to live together in the UK

    Children:

    Under 18 at time of application

    Not married or living independently

    Must apply with parent(s) or to join parent already in UK

    Financial and Accommodation Rules for a UK Dependent Visa Application

    Applicants must demonstrate they have enough funds to support themselves and secure suitable accommodation in the UK without relying on public funds.

    Key Points:

    Funds: £285 (partner), £315 (first child), £200 (additional child) for 28 days

    Exemptions if main visa holder’s CoS covers first-month costs or family in UK 12+ months

    Accommodation proof: tenancy agreement, mortgage, or landlord’s letter

    Accommodation cannot be overcrowded and must meet public health rules

    Essential Documents Required for a UK Dependent Visa Application

    Applicants must provide accurate and complete documentation to prove eligibility. Documents in foreign languages require certified English translations.

    Key Points:

    Passports/BRP cards for all applicants

    Marriage/civil partnership certificates or 2-year cohabitation evidence for unmarried couples

    Financial documents: bank statements, payslips, CoS/CAS

    Child’s birth certificate or school confirmation letters

    TB certificate, police registration (if applicable)

    Step-by-Step Application Process for the UK Dependent Visa

    The application process involves completing the form online, paying required fees, uploading documents, and verifying identity through biometrics or the ID Check App.

    Key Points:

    Online application submission

    Pay visa fee + Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

    Verify identity: ID Check App or biometric enrolment

    Book appointment at Visa Application Centre if required

    Processing Times and Faster Decision Options for Dependent Visa Applicants

    Processing times vary based on the service level selected, with optional paid upgrades for faster decision-making by the Home Office.

    Key Points:

    Standard processing: 3–8 weeks

    Priority service: 5 working days (£500 extra)

    Super priority service: Next working day (£1,000 extra)

    Delays possible if documents need further checks or interviews

    Length of Stay and Extension Rules for the UK Dependent Visa

    The duration of the dependent visa usually matches the main visa holder’s stay, with extension options available if the primary visa holder renews or extends their visa.

    Key Points:

    Up to 3 years for spouse/civil partner

    6 months for unmarried partners (depending on visa type)

    Children turning 18 during stay may extend if family remains eligible

    Extensions/switches possible before visa expiry

    Contact our team today to discuss your situation in confidence.

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