Overview
A Dependent Visa allows the family members of a person who is in the UK on a qualifying visa (such as a Skilled Worker or Student visa) to join them or stay with them in the UK. Dependents typically include partners (spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner) and children under 18.
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be the partner or child of someone who has a valid UK visa or is applying for one.
- Your relationship must be genuine and subsisting.
- You must have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds.
- Children must be under 18 at the time of application (unless they are already in the UK as a dependent).
Required Documents
- A current valid passport.
- Proof of relationship (e.g. marriage certificate, birth certificate).
- Evidence of the main applicant's visa or application.
- Proof of meeting the financial requirement (e.g. bank statements).
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results if applicable.
Application Process
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm that the main applicant's visa allows for dependents.
- Gather Evidence: Collect proof of relationship and financial stability.
- Online Application: Apply online as a dependent of the main applicant.
- Pay Fees: Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Biometrics: Attend an appointment at a visa application centre.
- Decision: Receive your visa decision, usually aligned with the main applicant's timeline.
Processing Time & Fees
Processing Time: Usually matches the processing time of the main applicant's visa category.
Fees: Varies depending on the main applicant's visa type. IHS fees also apply per person.