Apply for a UK Dependent Visa with Confidence

Relocating or re-uniting your family under the umbrella of a UK visa can feel like navigating a maze. You’re not only dealing with paperwork, forms and deadlines you’re also investing hopes, relationships and the future together. Whether you’re the main visa holder (for example under the Skilled Worker route) or you’re the dependent family member seeking to join them, applying for a UK Dependent Visa is a major life step.

In this blog you will find up-to-date, officially-sourced guidance, detailed practical steps and strategic insight to help you apply with confidence. We’ll walk through who qualifies, what the rules are, what’s changed recently (and what may change soon), how to prepare your documents, common pitfalls and how to avoid them, and what the outcome means for your life in the UK. Throughout, you’ll read real-life elements of family dynamics, hopes and plans — because this is about more than just bureaucracy.

1. What is a UK Dependent Visa?

The term “Dependent Visa” in the UK broadly covers the permission given to family members (spouses/partners, children) of a main visa-holder to join or accompany them in the UK under certain immigration routes.

1.1 The Purpose

The UK immigration system recognises that many visa-holders move to the UK not just as individuals, but as families. Being able to bring your family or join them allows you to live, settle (in some cases) and integrate more fully together. The dependent visa allows:

• family unity: the spouse/partner and dependent children can live with the main visa holder;
• access to the UK’s services (subject to route);
• rights to work (in many cases) and to study.
  It is a vital pathway for those who want the UK move to be a family decision, not one-sided.

1.2 Which Routes Allow Dependants?

Although many routes in the UK immigration system allow dependants, the most relevant for many will be the work-based routes (for example the Skilled Worker route) and the student-based or family-based routes. According to the official guidance:

• The document “Dependent family members in work routes” by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) explains how dependants of persons on work routes may apply. GOV.UK
• The guidance for students (and those on the Student route) about bringing family members also exists. UKCISA

1.3 Why “Apply with Confidence”?

Because although the rules appear straightforward, they change (and have changed), caseworkers expect precise evidence, and mistakes or omissions can delay or even result in refusal. By understanding exactly what the rules are now, you set yourself up with the best chance of success and peace of mind.

2. Who can apply as a Dependant? (Eligibility)

This is one of the crucial areas: understanding exactly who qualifies as a dependant and which relationship types are accepted.

2.1 Which family members count as dependants?

According to official guidance:

• A spouse or civil partner of the main visa holder. GOV.UK+1
• An unmarried or same-sex partner in most cases where they have been in a relationship akin to marriage for a specified period (traditionally 2 years) and satisfy the conditions. GOV.UK+1
• A child under 18 at the date of application (children aged 16 or over must not be living an independent life). Global
• Other relatives (parents, grandparents, wider family) generally do not qualify under dependent rules for work/skill routes. hr.admin.cam.ac.uk

2.2 Important exclusions and caveats

• The rules vary depending on the route of the main visa holder. For example, students on the Student route may have more restrictive dependant rules. UKCISA
• Children who are 18 or over at the time of application typically cannot apply as dependants unless they satisfied continuous leave as a dependant when under 18. hr.admin.cam.ac.uk
• If the main visa holder is on a route that no longer allows dependants (or change of policy applies) then an application will not succeed. For example, new rules from March 2024 mean care workers under the Health & Care visa route can no longer bring dependants in some cases. DavidsonMorris | Solicitors+1

2.3 “Main applicant” vs “Dependant applicant”

• The main applicant is the person holding (or applying for) the UK visa route (work, study or other) who meets the criteria.
• The dependant applicant is the family member applying to join or accompany them.
  It’s crucial to ensure that the dependent application is linked to the main applicant’s visa or application.

2.4 Relation to residence and settlement

Dependants typically receive leave to remain in line with the main applicant’s permission. For example:

“If an applicant meets all the requirements to be granted permission as a dependant, they should be granted permission with an expiry date in line with the lead applicant’s permission.” GOV.UK
This means the dependants’ rights are dependent on the main visa route.

3. What are the key eligibility requirements you must meet?

Knowing the eligibility criteria is the first step. Even more critical is meeting them fully and evidencing them properly.

3.1 Relationship evidence

• For spouse/civil partner: a valid marriage/civil partnership certificate.
• For unmarried partners: you must demonstrate a durable relationship akin to marriage or civil partnership (often for at least 2 years) unless there are exceptional circumstances. GOV.UK
• For children: proof of relationship (birth/adoption certificate) and that the child is under 18 (unless certain exceptions apply).

3.2 Main applicant’s status

The main visa holder must be on a route that allows dependants and must have permission that covers the proposed period of stay for the dependant. If the main applicant’s route does not allow dependants (e.g., certain care worker roles as of March 2024) then the dependant application will fail.

3.3 Maintenance / financial requirement

Dependants must show that they will be maintained and accommodated without recourse to public funds (i.e., not relying on benefits). Official guidance emphasises maintenance and accommodation. GOV.UK+1
For example:

• The requirement might include showing savings (£285 for partner, £315 for first child, £200 for each additional child) for certain routes. ukspousevisa
  However, precise amounts can vary depending on the route and circumstances.
• If the main applicant is sponsored by an A-rated sponsor and certifies maintenance, the dependant may not need to show full funds themselves. hr.admin.cam.ac.uk

3.4 Suitable accommodation

You must have accommodation where you can live in the UK without needing public funds. This may mean providing tenancy/own-home evidence, or showing lodging arrangements.

3.5 Immigration status conformity

• The dependant must not be prohibited from applying under that route (for example be on a conflicting visa).
• They must be outside UK (if applying for entry clearance) or inside UK (if applying to switch/extend), depending on rules. hr.admin.cam.ac.uk
• They must remain “dependant” (i.e., not independent, especially in the case of children).

3.6 English language / Life in the UK test (later stages)

For initial dependant leave, generally there is no English test requirement for the dependant. However, if a dependant later applies for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) under certain routes, they may need to meet English language and Life in the UK test requirements. GOV.UK
This means applicants should plan ahead for the longer term.

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4. What’s new? What’s changing (2024-2026) the future-facing view

As immigration policy evolves, so do dependent-visa rules. Being aware of upcoming changes helps you prepare proactively.

4.1 Recent and upcoming changes

• As of 11 March 2024, for the Health & Care visa route (care workers and senior care workers): those on certain SOC codes (Standard Occupational Classification) are no longer allowed to bring dependants.
• From 22 July 2025, for the Skilled Worker route: new policy says only those in jobs at RQF Level 6 (graduate level) or above will be eligible to bring dependants. Those in roles at RQF 3–5 (lower skilled) may not.
• Wider government discussion: for family visas (partner/spouse), the minimum income requirement was under review; the Migration Advisory Committee suggested an alternative threshold of £23,000–£25,000 (rather than £38,700) in June 2025. The Guardian+1
• Additional reforms announced: The UK government intends to tighten English-language requirement for many immigration routes and potentially dependants in the future. Financial Times

4.2 What this means for applicants

• If you are the main visa holder in a job that is below the new threshold (e.g., RQF Level 3-5 or care worker), future dependants may not be accepted. This means you must urgently check that your occupation remains eligible prior to dependant application.
• If you are the dependant applicant, you must be prepared for stricter rules and demonstrate eligibility under the current regime. Planning ahead (e.g., gathering documents early) is wise.
• Because policy is still evolving, you may want to apply earlier rather than waiting if eligible now.
• For children/families: changes might shift longer-term settlement and rights — so your application should not just aim for short-term success but for “life together” in the UK.

4.3 A future-proof mindset

• Always confirm the date of application for dependent leave—since eligibility is judged at the time of application submission.
• Keep your evidence up to date (relationship, co-habitation, finances) because caseworkers may ask for more.
• If your main visa route changes (for example you change job, switch route, or gain ILR), check how that affects your dependants.
• Consider future settlement/Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as part of your strategy it’s not just about getting the join-up, but living long-term in the UK.

5. How to apply: Step-by-step roadmap

Here is a practical roadmap you can follow to apply for a UK dependent visa.

Step 1: Clarify your route and whether dependants are permitted

• Check the main applicant’s route: Is it a work route (Skilled Worker, Health & Care, etc.), student route, or another?
• Verify that the route allows dependants: Use the official guidance Dependent family members in work routes and others. GOV.UK
• Check whether specific occupations are excluded (e.g., care workers from 2024) or whether you meet RQF/skill threshold.

Step 2: Identify eligible dependants

List everyone you wish to include: spouse/partner, children under 18. Ensure each person satisfies the relationship and age criteria. Document marriages, civil partnerships, evidence of co-habitation (if unmarried partner), birth certificates for children.

Step 3: Gather required supporting documents

Here’s a checklist of commonly required documents:

• Passport or valid travel document of dependant applicant.
• Relationship evidence (marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, proof of cohabitation or durable relationship for unmarried partner).
• For children: birth or adoption certificate showing being child of the main applicant, or proof of sole responsibility if applicable.
• Evidence main applicant’s visa route, permission, employment/occupation (if applicable).
• Evidence of maintenance and accommodation: bank statements, employer certificate (if maintenance certified), tenancy/house ownership, etc.
• Translations: Any documents not in English (or Welsh) must be professionally translated. GOV.UK
• Additional route-specific evidence: For example, for Student route, the student must have been eligible to bring dependants. UKCISA
• Biometrics appointment booking (if applicable).

Step 4: Complete the application form

• Dependant applicants will typically apply by selecting the correct visa route linked to the main applicant.
• Ensure the application is accurate: spelling of names, dates, relationships must match documents.
• Pay the required fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) if applicable. For example: “£1,035 per year” for adult dependants under many routes. ukspousevisa
• Choose whether to apply from outside the UK (entry clearance) or inside (leave to remain/switch) depending on circumstances. hr.admin.cam.ac.uk

Step 5: Submit the application, attend biometric appointment

• After submission, you may need to attend a biometric appointment (fingerprints, photo).
• Provide all documents, preferably as early as possible. Keep copies and track your application.
• Monitor updates: Caseworkers may ask for additional evidence or clarification.

Step 6: Wait for the decision and prepare for landing (if outside the UK)

• Processing times vary based on country/region, route and whether priority services are used.
• Once approved, you’ll get a vignette or e-visa status. If from outside the UK, you must travel and enter before the vignette expiry.
• After arrival, you may need to obtain a BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) inside UK.
• If inside UK: your leave will be granted for a period aligned with the main visa holder. GOV.UK

Step 7: After arrival / after grant – what you can do

• You may now live, work and/or study (depending on the visa conditions) alongside the main applicant.
• Make sure you comply with the conditions of your visa (not recourse to public funds, abide by employment restrictions).
• Keep records and plan for future: extensions, settlement (ILR) or citizenship if eligible.

6. Documents – The detail that makes or breaks an application

In many cases applications fail or are delayed because of document issues. Let’s dive into key document-areas and ensure you know what is expected.

6.1 Relationship documentation

• Marriage/civil partnership certificate: must be official and unambiguous.
• For unmarried partners: evidence of relationship durable and akin to marriage. This can include things like joint bank accounts, joint tenancy, utility bills in both names, photographs over time, letters showing relationship, etc.
• Must cover the relevant period (e.g., two years co-habitation) if required. Some caseworkers still ask for evidence of co-habitation though rules have relaxed. Reddit
• For children: birth/adoption documents showing the child is of the main applicant, or otherwise qualify under the rules.

6.2 Financial/maintenance evidence

• Bank statements showing sufficient funds for required period (usually 28 consecutive days ending within 31 days of application) in some routes. ukspousevisa
• If the main applicant’s sponsor is A-rated and certifies maintenance, you may not need independent funds. hr.admin.cam.ac.uk
• Tenancy/ownership documents or letter showing accommodation is available and adequate.
• Any scholarships (for student routes) or employer certification if required.

6.3 Proof of the main applicant’s visa status/route/employment

• Main applicant’s visa letter or BRP showing permission.
• Employment contract or offer, pay slips if relevant (for work routes).
• If the route has changed, switch of route documents.
• Evidence that the route allows dependants (a check to confirm the occupation code, RQF level etc). For example, you’ll need to verify your occupation is still eligible (especially post July 2025 changes). Visa And Immigrations+1

6.4 Identity documents & translations

• Valid passport/travel document for each dependent.
• Any other ID, e.g., national ID cards, if required.
• If any document is not in English or Welsh: certified translation required (with date, translator’s details, signature). GOV.UK

6.5 Specific route documents

• For a Student route lead applicant: proof of course length, whether dependants allowed. UKCISA
• For children born after the main visa granted: birth certificate, proof of parents’ status.
• If the main applicant has ILR or citizenship: check how that affects dependant’s route.

6.6 Common pitfalls in documentation

• Using documents that are out of date or do not cover the relevant timeframe.
• Not translating a foreign language document.
• Relationship proofs that are generic (e.g., many social media messages) rather than official showing durable relationship.
• Not providing evidence for maintenance where required.
• Occupation code/skill level mismatch leading to route ineligibility.
• Main applicant route change (e.g., job switch, route switch) not accounted for.

7. Fees, processing times & what you get the practical logistics

7.1 Fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

• Dependants must pay the visa application fee for their leave plus the IHS (unless exempt under certain categories). For example, some sources state: adult dependants pay £1,035 per year for IHS; child dependants lower rate (for example £776) for under-18. ukspousevisa
• Application fees vary depending on outside/inside UK status, route and duration. Always check the latest fees on the official HM Government website.
• When budgeting, allow for fee + IHS + travel + document preparation costs.

7.2 Processing times

• For applications outside the UK: typical processing might be about 3 weeks from the date of biometric appointment (though this can vary widely).
• For applications inside the UK (extension or switch): service standards might say 8 weeks (or faster with priority or super-priority service) depending on route. Example: one source cites 8 weeks, with priority 5 working days / super-priority 24 hours. ukspousevisa
• Processing may be delayed if additional evidence is required. Having complete files improves speed.

7.3 What you get when approval is granted

• The dependant receives leave that is aligned with the main applicant’s leave (expiry date will match or fall in line). GOV.UK
• They may receive:
  • an Entry Clearance vignette (for applicants outside UK) to enter the UK, and a BRP after arrival
  • an online e-Visa status record (for some)
• With that visa, the dependant can come to/live in the UK, and depending on the route, may work and study.

7.4 Working and studying rights

Dependants of many work-based routes are allowed to work, subject to restrictions (cannot work as professional sportspersons, etc). hr.admin.cam.ac.uk
Studying is usually allowed, but specifics depend on route conditions.

8. Advantages of obtaining a Dependant Visa life beyond paperwork

Beyond checking boxes, bringing your family together through a dependant visa creates real-life opportunities.

8.1 Family unification and wellbeing

Moving countries is a major life change. Having your spouse/partner and children in tow means shared experience, emotional support, and the chance to build a life together. That matters for mental health, cultural adjustment and long-term success.

8.2 Work and study opportunities for dependants

In many work-routes, dependants may be able to take up employment and pursue education. This enables them to contribute financially or develop themselves, rather than simply being dependent. That turns “visa” into “life” — schooling for children, job for spouse, integration into society.

8.3 Pathway toward settlement

Being a dependant may allow you to accrue periods of lawful residence in the UK that count toward settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain, ILR) in some routes. This is an important long-term benefit. For example: if the main applicant becomes settled, the dependant may apply for settlement in their own right. Planning for this from day one helps.

8.4 Adaptation, culture, global exposure

By securing your UK dependent visa, you open doors: new culture, education, work environment, an international network. For children, this can mean exposure to global systems; for partners, reinvention or career revival. It’s a chance to shape your future together.

9. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many applications get delayed or refused because of avoidable issues. Here are the top problems and how you can sidestep them.

9.1 Mistake: Applying when the main route no longer allows dependants

Avoidance: Always check the current rule (e.g., July 2025 changes) for the main visa route and whether your role/occupation qualifies. Example: Care workers under Health & Care visa no longer allowed to bring dependants (from March 2024).

9.2 Mistake: Weak relationship proof (for unmarried partners)

Avoidance: Provide strong documentary evidence of your relationship’s durability and nature (shared finances, co-habitation, correspondence, photographs, travel together, etc). Don’t rely only on “we’re together” statements.

9.3 Mistake: Not demonstrating sufficient maintenance/financial evidence

Avoidance: Provide clear bank statements, employer certification (if applicable), tenancy/ownership proof, etc. Ensure funds are held for the required period and from the right dates. Confirm what the maintenance requirement is for your specific route.

9.4 Mistake: Documents not in English/Welsh, or not properly translated

Avoidance: If any document is in another language, get a certified translation with translator’s full name, signature, date and contact details. GOV.UK

9.5 Mistake: Mismatch of expiry dates of main and dependant leave

Avoidance: Ensure that you understand the dependant’s leave will be aligned with the main applicant’s leave. If the main applicant’s route length changes, this can affect you. GOV.UK

9.6 Mistake: Ignoring future changes in rules

Avoidance: Policies evolve. Check the date of guidance you’re relying on. If the rules changed (for example July 2025), make sure your situation is eligible under the new rules.

9.7 Mistake: Not planning for settlement/ILR

Avoidance: Although the immediate goal is the dependant visa approval, think ahead: what will happen after 3-5 years? What are the settlement rights for dependants under your route? Ensure you keep good records of your residence/life in UK as a dependant.

10. Strategic Tips for a Strong Application (and a confident mindset)

Here are some practical tips from experts to boost your application and reduce stress.

10.1 Start early & be organised

• Begin the documentation process well in advance of your application date.
• Create a checklist of documents, collect translations, gather financial statements early.
• Make sure you have deadlines covered (biometric appointments, fees paid).
• Confirm the route eligibility and whether policy changes are applicable at your date of application.

10.2 Maintain consistency and clarity

• All names, dates and relationships must match across documents (passport vs certificates etc).
• If your partner is applying as an unmarried partner, explain clearly why you qualify and provide supporting evidence.
• If your child is applying, ensure you show they are under 18 or qualify under specific rules.

10.3 Evidence your “intention to live in the UK”

Although not always stated explicitly, immigration caseworkers will often look for indications that the family unit will live together and make the UK their base. Evidence could include: your accommodation in the UK, joint bank statements, plans for schooling, work etc. This is part of the “life” narrative behind your move.

10.4 Keep informed about policy changes

• Regularly check the official UK government site (GOV.UK) for latest guidance and Immigration Rules.
• If the main applicant’s occupation or route might change (e.g., job change, route switch), assess how that may impact your dependant eligibility.
• If your application is just eligible under existing rules but policy proposed change may make you ineligible in future, consider acting sooner.

10.5 If in doubt, seek professional advice

Given the stakes (family separation, major costs, future settlement), it may be wise to consult an experienced UK immigration solicitor or advisor. They can check occupation codes, eligibility, translate rules into your personal circumstances.

10.6 Think long-term: settlement & integration

• After the dependent visa is granted, don’t just stop there. Keep records of your residence, employment/study, family life in the UK.
• Monitor when you become eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain and what role your dependant leave plays in that.
• Begin the integration journey: learning the local culture, language, schooling etc, helps make the move a success.

11. Real-Life Scenario: Turning Paperwork into Life

Understanding the human dimension of a dependant visa can make the process more meaningful. Here is how a couple’s journey might play out.

Case Study: Anish and Priya
Anish, an Indian-national software engineer aged 34, obtains a Skilled Worker visa (UK) starting in October 2025. His wife, Priya (age 32), and their 12-year-old child, Neha, want to join him in the UK.

Here’s how they approach the dependent visa plan with confidence:

1. Check eligibility: Anish’s job is at degree level, RQF 6, so under the new upcoming rules (post July 2025) he remains eligible to bring dependants.
2. Gather proof of relationship: They have a marriage certificate, joint accounts, pictures and travel history together.
3. Documentation: Priya and Neha each prepare valid passports. Priya arranges bank statements showing sufficient funds (and the employer certificate of Anish certifies maintenance). They arrange accommodation in a 3-bedroom house in the UK, lease agreement ready.
4. Application submission: They apply online within the required timeframe. Priya books her biometric appointment.
5. Arrival and life: Once approved, the family relocates. Priya can look for job opportunities, and Neha starts UK schooling. They keep records of residence, Anish’s employment, and plan for settlement later.

By being proactive and structured, Anish and Priya turned the administrative process into a life-changing family move.

12. Frequently Asked Questions (with up-to-date answers)

Q1: Can my child apply as a dependant if they turn 18 during the application?
A: Generally children must be under 18 at the date of application. If they are over 18 but had previously been granted dependant leave while under 18 and have continuous leave, there may be further options.

Q2: Do dependants have to show English language ability or take the ‘Life in the UK’ test?
A: For the initial dependant visa, no English language test is ordinarily required. However if the dependant later applies for settlement (ILR), they may need to meet English language and Life in the UK test requirements.

Q3: Can dependants work in the UK?
A: Yes, dependants on many work-based routes can work; however, there are restrictions (e.g., cannot work as professional sportsperson or doctor/dentist in training in some cases).

Q4: What happens if the main applicant’s visa is extended, switched or ends?
A: The dependant’s leave will generally be aligned with the main applicant’s leave. If the main applicant changes route to one that doesn’t allow dependants, you must check how that affects your permission.

Q5: My partner is on a Care Worker role under Health & Care visa. Can I join them?
A: From 11 March 2024 for certain care worker occupations, dependants are not allowed to accompany. You must check your occupation code and date of main visa.

13. Final Checklist Before You Submit

Here’s a quick final checklist to ensure you’ve covered key areas:

• You (main applicant) are on a route that allows dependants (check occupation code, RQF level, date of application).
• The person applying as dependant is an eligible family member (spouse/partner, child < 18).
• Relationship evidence is comprehensive and consistent.
• Financial/maintenance evidence is clear and meets the relevant route requirement.
• Accommodation evidence is prepared.
• All documents are translated into English/Welsh if needed.
• You have confirmed the applicable fee and IHS.
• You understand the application type (entry clearance or leave to remain) and have booked biometrics if required.
• You have plans for what happens after arrival: schooling, work, settlement, integration.
• You have contingency for policy changes (e.g., waiting too long might lock you into new rules).

14. Conclusion

Applying for a UK Dependent Visa is more than checklists and forms it’s about building your future together. With the right preparation, up-to-date knowledge, and a structured approach, you can apply with confidence and move forward into this new chapter of your life.

Key take-aways:

• Understand the rules and eligibility deeply; don’t assume “because I’m on a visa, dependants are automatic.”
• Stay current: policy changes are happening (RQF levels, occupation codes, income thresholds).
• Prepare documentation meticulously: relationship proof, finances, accommodation, translations.
• Think beyond the visa: how you’ll live, work, integrate and eventually settle in the UK.
• Where necessary, seek professional advice to ensure nothing is overlooked.

If you follow these steps, you’ll not only be ready to apply, but to live in a new country, reunited as a family, ready for opportunity.

🧩 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a UK Dependent Visa?

A UK Dependent Visa allows family members (spouse, partner, or children under 18) of a person lawfully residing or working in the UK to live together. It’s available for dependents of Skilled Worker, Global Talent, Health & Care, Innovator, and other eligible visa categories.

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2. Who can apply for a UK Dependent Visa?

You can apply if you are the spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or child (under 18) of the main visa holder. Same-sex partners are eligible if they’ve been in a genuine relationship for at least two years.

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3. What are the financial requirements for a Dependent Visa?

Applicants must prove they can support themselves without relying on UK public funds.
For Skilled Worker dependents, the minimum funds are:

• £285 for your partner
• £315 for the first child
• £200 for each additional child
  This may be waived if the sponsor certifies maintenance on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).

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4. How do I apply for a UK Dependent Visa?

You can apply online through the UK Government’s official portal, either from outside or inside the UK. You’ll need to provide biometrics, proof of relationship, and financial documents. It’s recommended to consult an immigration expert to ensure your documents meet UKVI standards.

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5. What documents are required for a UK Dependent Visa?

Key documents include:

• Valid passport
• Marriage or birth certificates
• Financial proof (bank statements or sponsor certification)
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
• Criminal record certificate (for certain countries)
• Certified English translation for non-English documents

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6. How long does a UK Dependent Visa take to process?

From outside the UK: usually 3 weeks after biometrics.
From inside the UK: around 8 weeks.
Priority services can shorten this to 5 working days or even 24 hours (super-priority), depending on location and availability.

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7. What are the UK Dependent Visa fees?

Visa fees depend on the main applicant’s visa type and duration.
Example for Skilled Worker dependents (as of 2025):

• 3-year visa: £713
• 5-year visa: £1,420
  In addition, there’s an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £1,035 per adult per year and £776 per child per year.

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8. Can Dependent Visa holders work or study in the UK?

Yes. Dependent Visa holders can work (including self-employment) and study in the UK, except as a professional sportsperson or doctor/dentist in training. Children can attend public or private schools.

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9. Can Dependent Visa holders apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

Yes. After living in the UK continuously for 5 years on a Dependent Visa (linked to the main applicant’s stay), dependents can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, provided they meet English language and “Life in the UK” test requirements.

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10. Do dependents need to meet an English language requirement?

Not for the initial visa. However, dependents must meet the English language and Life in the UK test requirements when applying for ILR or citizenship.

💡 Bonus Tip: Apply for a UK Dependent Visa with Confidence

Always use official sources such as the UK Home Office, GOV.UK, or authorised immigration solicitors. Ensure all supporting documents are complete and consistent, as missing or inaccurate information can lead to rejection.