The Ultimate Guide to the UK Dependant Visa: A Comprehensive Legal Insight
For individuals moving to the UK under a work, study, or family visa, ensuring that their loved ones can accompany them is a critical concern. The UK Dependant Visa allows spouses, children, and in some cases, other family members to join and remain with the main visa holder in the UK.
This visa provides essential rights and benefits, including the ability to work, study, and access healthcare. However, it also comes with strict eligibility criteria, financial requirements, and application procedures that must be carefully followed to avoid refusals or unnecessary delays.
At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we specialize in UK family and dependant visa applications, ensuring that families remain together without unnecessary legal hurdles. This guide provides a detailed, lawyer-written explanation of who qualifies for a dependant visa, how to apply, the financial requirements, common pitfalls, and long-term settlement options.
1️⃣ What is a UK Dependant Visa?
The UK Dependant Visa allows certain family members of individuals holding specific UK visas to live, work, and study in the UK. This visa is available to dependents of visa holders, including those under:
✔ Skilled Worker Visa
✔ Scale-Up Visa
✔ Health and Care Worker Visa
✔ Student Visa (limited to immediate family members)
✔ Innovator Founder Visa
✔ Global Talent Visa
✔ High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa
✔ UK Ancestry Visa
✔ Other eligible work or study routes
📌 Important: If the main visa holder has Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British Citizenship, dependants may need to apply under a Family Visa route instead.
2️⃣ Who Can Apply as a Dependant?
The UK Home Office defines a dependant as:
✔ Spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner (with proof of a relationship of at least 2 years).
✔ Children under 18 (must be living with the main applicant and financially dependent).
✔ Children over 18 (only if they are already in the UK as dependants and still reliant on the main applicant).
🚫 Parents, siblings, and extended family members are not eligible under this visa route unless there are exceptional circumstances.
📌 Key Consideration: If your relationship has recently started or you do not live together, the Home Office may scrutinize your relationship closely to ensure it is genuine and subsisting.
3️⃣ Financial Requirements for a Dependant Visa (Updated 2024 Figures)
One of the biggest reasons for dependant visa refusals is failing to meet the financial requirement.
🔹 Financial Requirement for Work Visa Dependants
If the main applicant is on a Skilled Worker, Scale-Up, or Innovator Visa, they must show:
✔ £285 for a partner
✔ £315 for the first child
✔ £200 for each additional child
📌 Exception: If the main applicant has been in the UK for 12 months or more, they do not need to show additional financial proof.
🔹 Financial Requirement for Student Visa Dependants
If the main applicant is on a Student Visa, they must show:
✔ £845 per month (up to 9 months) if studying in London
✔ £680 per month (up to 9 months) if studying outside London
📌 Key Tip: You must prove the required funds have been in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
4️⃣ Rights and Benefits of a UK Dependant Visa
✔ Work Rights: Dependants of work visa holders can work in any job, including self-employment.
✔ Study Rights: Dependants can study in the UK, but they may need to pay international tuition fees.
✔ Access to NHS Healthcare: Dependants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) but will have full NHS access.
✔ Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Dependants may apply for ILR after 5 years, provided the main visa holder is also eligible.
🚫 Restrictions:
❌ Dependants of Student Visa holders cannot work in certain jobs (e.g., professional sportsperson).
❌ Dependants cannot claim public funds (benefits).
📌 Key Benefit: Unlike some countries, the UK allows dependants to work freely, making this visa highly attractive for families relocating together.
5️⃣ Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a UK Dependant Visa
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
✔ Valid passport and travel documents.
✔ Marriage or civil partnership certificate (for partners).
✔ Proof of a long-term relationship (for unmarried partners) – joint bills, bank statements, tenancy agreements.
✔ Birth certificates (for children).
✔ Proof of financial stability (bank statements, payslips, or employer letters).
✔ Proof of main visa holder’s status (visa approval letter, BRP, or sponsorship details).
📌 Common Mistake: Many applications are delayed or refused due to incomplete financial evidence—ensure all documents are clear and in English.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
✔ Apply via the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) website.
✔ Pay the visa application fee.
✔ Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Step 3: Attend a Biometric Appointment
✔ Submit fingerprints and a digital photograph at a visa application centre.
✔ Upload supporting documents online or submit them in person.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
✔ Standard processing time: 3-8 weeks.
✔ Priority processing: Available for an additional fee (5-10 working days).
📌 Key Tip: If applying from inside the UK, do not travel abroad while your application is pending.
6️⃣ Can Dependant Visa Holders Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
✔ Yes, dependants can apply for ILR after 5 years if the main applicant also qualifies for ILR.
✔ You must show that you have lived continuously in the UK and have not been absent for more than 180 days per year.
✔ If applying as a child, you must still be financially dependent on your parents.
📌 After ILR: You can apply for British citizenship after 1 additional year.
7️⃣ Common Reasons for Dependant Visa Refusals & How to Avoid Them
🔴 Failure to Provide Proof of Relationship
💡 Solution: Submit clear documents proving cohabitation and financial interdependence.
🔴 Insufficient Financial Evidence
💡 Solution: Ensure bank statements cover 28 days and meet the required amounts.
🔴 Errors in Online Application
💡 Solution: Double-check personal details, sponsorship details, and dependants’ information.
🔴 Applying After the Main Visa Holder’s Status Has Expired
💡 Solution: Always ensure the main applicant has valid leave to remain before applying.
8️⃣ FAQs About the UK Dependant Visa
Q1: Can I work on a Dependant Visa?
✔ Yes, dependants of work visa holders can work without restrictions.
Q2: Can I study on a Dependant Visa?
✔ Yes, but you may be charged international student fees unless you qualify for home fees.
Q3: Can I switch to another visa while on a Dependant Visa?
✔ Yes, you can switch to a Skilled Worker Visa, Innovator Founder Visa, or other routes.
Q4: Can I bring my parents on a Dependant Visa?
❌ No, unless under exceptional circumstances (e.g., Adult Dependant Relative route).
Final Thoughts: Why Work with Sahin Legal Consultancy?
Applying for a UK Dependant Visa requires careful planning, proper documentation, and a clear understanding of immigration rules. At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we provide expert legal assistance to ensure your application is successful and stress-free.
📩 Need help bringing your family to the UK? Contact Sahin Legal Consultancy today for expert guidance! 🚀
