Dependant Visa
A Dependant Visa enables the immediate family members of UK visa holders to join them in the UK. Discover the application process and the key requirements for eligibility. Partners, spouses and children can use this visa to live, work and study in the UK alongside their family.
Table of Content
- What is a UK dependant visa?
- Who can apply for a UK dependant visa?
- Key changes to UK dependant visa rules in 2025
- UK dependant visa requirements
- UK dependant visa financial requirements
- UK dependant visa required documents
- UK dependant visa application process
- Rights and conditions
- Pathway to settlement
- Contact us for UK dependant visa legal advice today
What is a UK dependant visa?
A UK Dependant Visa allows immediate family members, such as spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, children, and in some cases, adult dependants, to join a relative who holds a qualifying UK visa or has settled status. This visa enables families to live, work, and study together in the UK.
Who can apply for a UK dependant visa?
You may be eligible to apply as a dependant if you are:
The spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner (living together for at least two years) of a visa holder.
A child under 18, or over 18 but financially dependent on the main visa holder.
An adult relative (parent, grandparent, or adult child) requiring long-term care that cannot be provided in your home country.
Key changes to UK dependant visa rules in 2025
Minimum Income Requirement
The financial threshold for sponsoring a spouse or partner has increased from £29,000 to £34,500 per year. For each child, an additional £4,500 is required.
Eligibility for Students
As of January 2024, international students can only bring dependants if enrolled in a PhD or government-sponsored postgraduate research programme.
Care Workers
From March 2024, care workers and senior care workers are no longer permitted to bring dependants to the UK.
UK dependant visa requirements
Relationship Proof
Provide evidence of your relationship to the main visa holder (e.g. marriage certificate, birth certificate).
Financial Evidence
Demonstrate that the main visa holder can financially support you without recourse to public funds.
Accommodation
Show that adequate accommodation is available for you and your family.
Intention to Live Together
Confirm that you intend to live together in the UK.
UK dependant visa financial requirements
These thresholds reflect the rising cost of living and inflation, ensuring that applicants can meet the financial demands of living in or visiting the UK.
Spouse/Partner
£34,500 per year.
Child
£4,500 per year per child.
UK dependant visa required documents
Applicants typically need to provide:
The exact documents required may vary depending on the specific visa category under which you're applying.
Valid passport or travel document.
Proof of relationship to the main visa holder.
Financial evidence (e.g. payslips, bank statements).
Proof of accommodation.
Tuberculosis test results (if applicable).
Biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
UK dependant visa application process
Complete the Online Application
Fill out the appropriate application form on the UK government website.
Pay the Fees
Submit the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Submit Documents
Upload all required documents to support your application.
Biometric Appointment
Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Wait for a Decision
Processing times vary, but decisions are typically made within 8 weeks.
Rights and conditions
Work and Study
Dependant visa holders can live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions.
Public Funds
Dependant visa holders are not entitled to public funds.
Duration
The visa is usually granted for the same duration as the main visa holder's leave.
Pathway to settlement
After living in the UK for a continuous period of 5 years on a Dependant Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided you meet all the necessary requirements.
Contact us for UK dependant visa legal advice today
Are you an overseas family member of a UK visa holder looking to join them in the UK? Our experienced immigration lawyers can guide you through the entire process of applying for a UK Dependant Visa. We'll ensure your application is handled efficiently and meets all UK immigration requirements. Contact us today for personalised legal advice and take the first step toward starting your life in the UK with your family.
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