AUS (UK) Immigration’s

UK Dependant Visa

Overview of the UK Dependant Visa

The UK Dependant Visa allows immediate family members of UK visa holders to join them in the country. It is available for various visa categories, including work, PhD study, business, and ancestry visas. This visa facilitates the reunion of dependant family members with the primary visa holder in the UK. Specifically, PBS Dependant visas cater to individuals on points-based visas, like the Skilled Worker visa, enabling them to bring their family to the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Dependants

  • Partners: Spouses, those in a civil partnership with the principal visa holder, or partners cohabiting for over two years.
  • Children: They must be under 18 years of age, or if they are 16 years or older, they must be dependent on the main visa holder.

Dependency Criteria for Children

Children applying for a child dependant visa must meet the following criteria:

  • She is not leading an independent life (i.e., unmarried, in a civil partnership, or with children).
  • She resides with the primary visa holder (unless she is attending boarding school or university).
  • She is receiving financial support from the primary visa holder.

The Adult Dependant Relative visa scheme also allows elderly family members to join a UK resident with indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or UK citizenship.

Requirements for a UK Dependant Visa

To secure a UK Dependant Visa, you must fulfill the following general criteria:

  • Demonstrate that you meet the relationship requirements as a dependent family member.
  • Establish that you meet the financial prerequisites to sustain your livelihood in the UK.
  • Provide evidence of your identity and your relationship with the visa holder.
  • Express the intention to reside with the sponsor during your stay in the UK.

Financial Requirements for Dependant Visas

  • £285 for a partner.
  • £315 for one child, with an additional £200 for each extra child.

The specific financial requirements depend on the visa category the primary visa holder holds. For example, for a Skilled Worker dependent visa, it is essential to demonstrate that either the primary visa holder or the applicant possesses the necessary financial resources.

If both the primary visa holder and the dependant have resided in the UK for 12 months or longer, there is typically no financial obligation to meet.

Applying for a UK Dependant Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Complete and submit the online application form. Include the unique reference number from the principal applicant’s application.
  2. Fulfill the financial obligations: Pay the application fee and immigration healthcare surcharge.
  3. Compile and upload all requisite documents: Follow UKVI guidelines.
  4. Schedule and attend a biometric appointment: If you are outside the UK, go to the nearest UKVCAS or Visa Application Centre. Your fingerprints will be scanned, and a photo will be taken.

Typically, you can expect a decision on your UK Dependant Visa within 8 weeks.

Validity and Conditions of the Dependant Visa

Dependant visas are issued for the same duration as the primary visa holder’s permission. For example, if the main visa holder receives a 2-year visa, the Dependant Visa will also be valid for 2 years.

Benefits of the Dependant Visa

  • Freedom to live, work, study, and travel.
  • No sponsorship requirement for employment.
  • Ability to change jobs and employers without Home Office permission.

Note: Dependant visa holders are not eligible for public funds, including benefits, during their stay in the UK.

Transitioning from Dependant Visa to Settlement (ILR)

Dependant visa holders can seek settlement in the UK when the primary visa holder is granted Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), typically after 5 continuous years of residence. Eligibility for ILR includes:

  • Partners: Must maintain a genuine relationship and have sufficient income to support themselves.
  • Children: Must reside (or intend to live) with their parents, receive adequate support and accommodation, and not lead an independent life (unless at boarding school or university).

Attaining ILR allows permanent residency in the UK without further visa applications. ILR holders can apply for British citizenship after a year.

Contact Information

For personalized assistance with your dependant visa application, contact one of our knowledgeable immigration solicitors at +44 (0) 121 572 8126 or email at immigrations@ausuk.co.uk.