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Dependent Child Visa

lexenlaw.co.uk > Dependent Child Visa

Understanding the Purpose of the UK Child Dependant Visa

The UK Child Dependant Visa allows children to join or remain with their parent(s) who live in the UK or are applying for settlement or British citizenship. It ensures family unity and gives children the same residency rights as their parents, provided all requirements are met.

Key Points:

Grants the right for children to join parents in the UK

Covers children under 18; special rules for those over 18 if already dependent

Part of the UK Family Visa category alongside Spouse and Parent visas

Ensures family unity while meeting immigration and financial rules

A child born in the UK to parents with settled status can often get British citizenship automatically.

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    Eligibility Criteria for a UK Child Dependant Visa

    Children must meet specific eligibility conditions based on age, living arrangements, and parents’ immigration status. Children over 18 can only apply if they became dependants while under 18.

    Key Points:

    Child must live with parents or be in full-time education

    Must be unmarried and not in a civil partnership

    Parent must hold or be applying for settlement, British citizenship, or certain visa categories

    Children born in the UK can be added to parents’ next visa application

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    Required Documentation for a Child Dependant Visa Application

    Applicants must provide a full set of supporting documents proving identity, relationship, parental status, and financial stability.

    Key Points:

    Valid passports for parents and children

    Parents’ visa/BRP details and immigration history

    Proof of parental relationship and child’s birth certificate

    Financial evidence, TB tests, and certified translations where needed

    Previous immigration applications and criminal record details if applicable

    Financial Requirements for the UK Child Dependant Visa

    Parents must meet minimum financial thresholds based on income or savings to prove they can support their child without recourse to public funds.

    Key Points:

    Evidence of income from employment, self-employment, or pensions

    Savings threshold: typically £88,500 if using cash savings alone

    Property income or dividends accepted as non-work income

    Bank statements, payslips, or tax returns required as evidence

    Step-by-Step Process for Applying for a Child Dependant Visa

    The process depends on whether the child is applying inside or outside the UK, and whether the parent is applying at the same time.

    Key Points:

    Apply online using Appendix FM or Appendix 1 (where applicable)

    Children outside the UK must attend a Visa Application Centre for biometrics

    Children in the UK apply online and submit documents digitally or by post

    Parent’s visa type determines the exact application route

    Costs and Processing Times for a UK Child Dependant Visa

    Fees depend on the parent’s visa route and where the application is made. Additional costs may apply for healthcare and faster processing.

    Key Points:

    £1,938 when applying as a dependent of a settled person from outside the UK

    Same fee as main applicant if dependent of a Skilled Worker or similar visa route

    Immigration Health Surcharge payable in most cases

    Standard processing 3–8 weeks; priority and super-priority services available

    Contact our team today to discuss your situation in confidence.

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