Family unity plays a significant role in UK immigration policy. The dependent visa UK category enables family members of eligible migrants to live together in the United Kingdom. Whether you are a Skilled Worker, Student, Innovator, or Global Talent Visa holder, this visa helps you bring your loved ones to the UK — ensuring family stability and emotional support while you pursue your goals.
However, navigating the dependent visa process can be complex. Each visa category has its own eligibility criteria, maintenance requirements, and documentation standards. Even small errors in the application can lead to refusals or unnecessary delays.
That’s why understanding the dependent visa UK requirements in detail is crucial before applying. This comprehensive guide by Salam Immigration outlines the eligibility, documentation, process, and professional tips for ensuring a successful application.
Who Can Apply for a Dependent Visa UK?
The dependent visa UK is designed to allow family members of people who are already living in the United Kingdom under a valid visa to accompany or join them. This category supports the UK’s immigration principle of maintaining family unity — enabling dependants to live, study, or work (where permitted) alongside their loved ones.
However, eligibility depends heavily on the main visa holder’s immigration status and the relationship between the main applicant and their dependants.
1. Eligible Dependants
The following categories of family members may apply for a dependent visa UK:
Spouse or Civil Partner
Legally married spouses or civil partners of the primary visa holder are eligible to apply. The relationship must be genuine and subsisting, recognised under UK law, and the couple must intend to live together permanently in the UK.
Unmarried Partner
Unmarried partners can also apply, provided they have been in a relationship similar to marriage or a civil partnership for at least two years prior to the application date. Evidence such as shared bills, tenancy agreements, and correspondence may be required to prove cohabitation.
Children Under 18
Dependent children below the age of 18 can apply to join their parent(s) in the UK. This includes biological, adopted, or step-children, as long as both parents are legally responsible for them and intend to live together.
Children Over 18
Children who are over 18 may only apply as dependants if they are already in the UK with valid dependant status and continue to live with their parents. In such cases, proof of dependency and shared living arrangements is crucial.
2. Dependants of Specific Visa Categories
Different immigration categories have specific provisions for dependants:
- Skilled Worker Visa Holders:
Dependants of Skilled Workers can apply to join them in the UK, provided the main applicant meets the financial maintenance and accommodation requirements. - Student Visa Holders:
Students studying postgraduate courses of 9 months or more at a recognised institution, or government-sponsored students, may bring dependants. - Innovator Founder or Global Talent Visa Holders:
Dependants can accompany or join visa holders in these entrepreneurial or talent-based routes, subject to similar financial and relationship proof requirements. - British Citizens and ILR Holders:
Family members of those settled in the UK (holding Indefinite Leave to Remain) or British citizens can apply for family visas under separate but related rules.
Eligibility Criteria for a Dependent Visa UK
To successfully apply for a dependent visa UK, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements set by the UK Home Office. These requirements ensure that only genuine dependants, who can be adequately supported, are granted permission to live in the United Kingdom.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the core eligibility factors every applicant should understand before submitting their application.
1. Relationship Requirements
The relationship between the main visa holder and their dependant must be genuine and legally recognised under UK law. Each category of relationship has its own evidential standard:
- For Spouses or Civil Partners:
Applicants must provide a valid marriage or civil partnership certificate. The marriage must not be one of convenience, and both partners must intend to live together in the UK. - For Unmarried Partners:
Evidence of living together for at least two consecutive years before the date of the application is required. Documents such as joint tenancy agreements, shared utility bills, or official correspondence addressed to both partners can help substantiate the relationship. - For Children:
Dependent children must not be married, in a civil partnership, or leading an independent life. In most cases, both parents should be living in the UK or applying together, except in special circumstances such as sole custody.
For expert legal support with visa applications, appeals, and settlement in the UK, consider contacting Salam Immigration Lawyers.
The Home Office places strong emphasis on the authenticity of relationships. Any inconsistency or missing evidence can lead to refusal, so professional documentation review is highly recommended.
2. Financial Requirements
One of the most important aspects of the dependent visa UK application is proving that the family will not rely on public funds once in the UK. The main visa holder must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support dependants.
Minimum Maintenance Funds:
As of current Home Office guidance, the following funds are required (unless the main visa holder’s sponsor covers accommodation and living costs):
- Partner: £285
- First Child: £315
- Each Additional Child: £200
For more details on the costs to make a will in 2025, see our expert guide.
These funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days before the application date and evidenced through recent bank statements or sponsorship letters.
Note: The exact financial requirements may differ depending on the primary visa type and sponsoring employer’s policies. It’s crucial to verify these before submitting an application, as the Home Office may adjust thresholds periodically.
3. Accommodation Requirements
Applicants must show proof of suitable accommodation in the UK that will not be overcrowded or violate public health regulations.
Documents such as tenancy agreements, mortgage statements, or letters from landlords confirming adequate housing can be submitted.
4. English Language Requirement
Dependants themselves usually do not need to meet an English language requirement unless applying for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the future. However, the main visa holder must meet the English proficiency requirements for their own UK visa route.
5. Immigration Status of the Main Applicant
The main visa holder must have a valid UK visa or immigration status that permits dependants to join them.
For example:
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Student Visa (postgraduate)
- Innovator Founder Visa
- Health and Care Worker Visa
- Global Talent Visa
Each visa route has distinct dependent eligibility rules, and failure to align with them can result in refusal.
Documents Required for a Dependent Visa UK Application

(A person is seated at a desk, carefully organizing a stack of documents related to various UK visa categories, including a skilled worker visa and dependent visa application. The scene conveys a sense of preparation and attention to detail as they gather essential paperwork for their visa application process.)
When applying for a dependent visa UK, submitting the correct documentation is one of the most crucial steps in ensuring a smooth and successful outcome. The UK Home Office is very strict about documentary evidence, and any missing, expired, or inconsistent documents can lead to unnecessary delays or refusals.
Below is a detailed checklist of documents required to support your application — both from the main visa holder and the dependants.
Core Documents for All Dependants
Every dependant, regardless of relationship type, must provide the following documents when applying:
- Valid Passport – A passport with at least one blank page for the visa vignette and valid for the duration of stay.
- Visa Application Form – A completed online application form specific to the dependant category.
- Passport-sized Photographs – Two recent, colour, UK-standard passport photos.
- Proof of Relationship – Depending on the category:
- Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate (for spouses/partners)
- Birth certificate (for children)
- Proof of cohabitation (for unmarried partners)
- Proof of Immigration Status of Main Visa Holder – Copy of the main applicant’s BRP (Biometric Residence Permit), visa, or Home Office decision letter.
- Evidence of Financial Maintenance – Recent bank statements showing the required maintenance funds held for at least 28 consecutive days prior to application.
- Accommodation Details – Documents confirming adequate accommodation, such as tenancy agreements, mortgage documents, or letters from landlords confirming space availability.
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results – Required for applicants from certain countries, as per UK immigration rules.
- Official Translations – Any document not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation.
Additional Documents for Children
For children applying under the dependent visa UK route, the following additional documents may be required:
- Parental Consent Letters – Signed letters from both parents confirming the application and intent for the child to live in the UK.
- Evidence of Parental Responsibility – Documents such as custody orders, adoption papers, or birth certificates listing both parents.
- Proof of Dependency – For children over 16, evidence that they live with their parents and are financially dependent (e.g., school letters, bank transfers, shared address proof).
Additional Documents for Unmarried Partners
To establish the legitimacy of an unmarried relationship, applicants must provide at least two years’ worth of evidence showing cohabitation and joint financial responsibility. This may include:
- Joint tenancy or mortgage statements
- Utility bills or council tax bills in both names
- Joint bank account statements
- Official correspondence addressed to both partners at the same address
The Home Office assesses the genuineness of the relationship based on the consistency, frequency, and nature of shared documentation.
Financial Documentation Requirements
To meet the financial maintenance requirement, provide one or more of the following:
- Personal or joint bank statements showing the required maintenance funds
- Sponsor’s letter confirming financial support
- Payslips or employment letters (if the main visa holder is working in the UK)
- Scholarship letters (for students) confirming dependent support coverage
The financial evidence must be dated within 31 days of the visa application submission.
Additional Supporting Documents
Depending on your case, you may also need:
- Cover Letter: A clear explanation of the relationship, background, and purpose of the application.
- Travel History Evidence: Previous visa copies, entry/exit stamps, or refusal notices (if any).
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Reference: For dependants of Skilled Worker visa holders.
Submitting a complete and well-organised documentation package significantly enhances your chances of approval. For peace of mind, many applicants choose to have their documents reviewed by a professional immigration adviser, such as Salam Immigration, before submission.
How to Apply for a Dependent Visa UK (Step-by-Step Process)
Applying for a dependent visa UK involves several detailed stages, from completing the online form to submitting biometrics and supporting documents. Understanding each step will help applicants avoid mistakes that could delay or jeopardise their applications.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the full process, designed to ensure your dependent visa application is complete and compliant with Home Office requirements.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before you begin, ensure that both the main visa holder and the dependant(s) meet the eligibility criteria outlined by the UK Home Office.
This includes verifying:
- The relationship between the main applicant and the dependants.
- That sufficient financial maintenance is available.
- That the main visa type allows dependants to join.
If you are unsure about any aspect of eligibility, it’s strongly advised to seek professional guidance before proceeding.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all relevant documents for both the main visa holder and the dependant(s).
This includes:
- Passports
- Proof of relationship
- Financial documents
- TB test results (if applicable)
- Accommodation proof
All documents must be current, valid, and in English or Welsh (or accompanied by certified translations). Organising your documents in logical order will make the visa centre verification process easier.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Dependants must apply online via the official UK Government Visa and Immigration (GOV.UK) website.
The specific form depends on whether the dependant is applying:
- From outside the UK (entry clearance), or
- From within the UK (visa extension or switching category).
You’ll need to select the correct visa route corresponding to the main visa holder’s category — for example, Skilled Worker Dependant, Student Dependant, or Health and Care Worker Dependant.
During this stage, you’ll enter personal information, travel history, and financial details. Review all entries carefully before submission, as even small errors (like name spelling inconsistencies) can lead to processing delays.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Applicants are required to pay:
- Visa Application Fee: This varies depending on whether the application is made inside or outside the UK.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Provides access to NHS healthcare services in the UK during your stay.
Fees are paid online as part of the application submission process. The IHS fee is calculated based on the visa duration (currently £1,035 per year per applicant, subject to change).
Note: The fees and costs mentioned are accurate at the time of writing. However, the Home Office may revise them, so it’s recommended to verify current charges before proceeding.
Step 5: Book and Attend the Biometrics Appointment
After submitting the application online and paying fees, you’ll receive an email to book a biometric enrolment appointment.
This takes place at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) outside the UK or a UKVCAS Service Point within the UK.
At this appointment, dependants will:
- Provide fingerprints and photographs for biometric identification.
- Submit supporting documents (if not uploaded online).
If your application is being processed outside the UK, your passport will usually be retained for visa vignette stamping.
Step 6: Upload and Submit Supporting Documents
Applicants can upload supporting documents either:
- Directly to the GOV.UK portal before the appointment, or
- At the biometric appointment (depending on local VAC policies).
Ensure every document is legible, properly labelled, and matches the information declared in the online form.
Step 7: Wait for a Decision
Processing times vary depending on the visa type and country of application.
Typically:
- Outside the UK: 3 to 8 weeks
- Inside the UK (extensions): 8 to 12 weeks
You may be eligible for a priority service or super priority service (additional fee required) for faster processing. The Home Office will email you once a decision has been made.
Step 8: Receive the Visa and Travel to the UK
If the application is approved:
- Dependants applying from abroad will receive a visa vignette (sticker) in their passport, allowing entry into the UK within a 90-day window.
- Once in the UK, they’ll collect their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from the designated post office within 10 days.
Dependants already in the UK will receive their BRP card directly by post.
Step 9: Prepare for Life in the UK
Once the visa is granted, dependants can live, study, and, in many cases, work in the UK (depending on the main visa holder’s category). It’s vital to comply with visa conditions to maintain lawful immigration status.
Salam Immigration offers post-approval support, ensuring you understand your rights, work eligibility, and pathways toward settlement or indefinite leave to remain.
Rights and Benefits of Dependent Visa Holders in the UK

Securing a dependent visa UK not only allows family members to reunite with their loved ones but also grants a wide range of rights and privileges during their stay. However, these rights depend on the main visa holder’s immigration status and the conditions attached to their visa.
Below is an overview of what dependants can and cannot do while living in the UK under this visa category.
Right to Live in the UK
Dependants can legally reside in the United Kingdom for the same duration as the main visa holder.
Their visa validity will mirror that of the sponsoring family member. For example:
- If the main visa holder has a 3-year Skilled Worker Visa, the dependant’s visa will also be valid for 3 years.
- When the main applicant extends or switches their visa, dependants must apply for an extension at the same time to maintain lawful status.
Dependants must always ensure their immigration status remains valid and avoid overstaying, as it can affect future applications.
Right to Work in the UK
One of the key advantages of the dependent visa UK is that most dependants are eligible to work in the United Kingdom without restrictions.
They can:
- Work full-time or part-time.
- Be employed or self-employed.
- Engage in voluntary work.
However, there are exceptions:
- Dependants of Student Visa holders can work limited hours, depending on the main applicant’s study level and course type.
- Dependants cannot work as professional sportspersons or coaches under most categories.
This flexibility allows families to contribute economically while maintaining a balanced lifestyle in the UK.
Right to Study in the UK
Dependants may study in the UK without applying for a separate Student Visa.
Children can attend local schools, while adults can enrol in college or university courses — provided they meet entry requirements and pay any relevant tuition fees.
For children, the UK education system provides access to world-class schooling, often free under state education, depending on the local council’s eligibility criteria.
Right to Access Healthcare (NHS)
Dependants who pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are entitled to use the National Health Service (NHS) on the same basis as UK residents.
This includes:
- General Practitioner (GP) visits
- Emergency and hospital care
- Prescription services (subject to standard charges)
Dependants should register with a local GP as soon as they arrive in the UK to access primary healthcare services easily.
Right to Rent and Open a Bank Account
Dependants with valid Biometric Residence Permits (BRP) or digital immigration status can:
- Rent property in the UK (subject to right-to-rent checks)
- Open a UK bank account for salary deposits and financial transactions
These rights ensure dependants can establish stable living conditions and manage finances independently.
Access to Public Funds and Benefits
Dependants cannot claim public funds or benefits such as Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Child Benefit.
This restriction applies to most temporary visa categories. However, once the family obtains Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship, these restrictions are lifted.
Pathway to Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
Dependants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) once they have completed 5 years of continuous residence in the UK — provided the main visa holder also qualifies for settlement.
To qualify, dependants must:
- Live lawfully in the UK throughout the 5-year period.
- Maintain the relationship with the main visa holder.
- Not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period.
- Demonstrate English language proficiency (for adults).
- Pass the Life in the UK Test.
After obtaining ILR, dependants may later apply for British citizenship, subject to meeting residence and good character requirements.
Additional Rights for Children Born in the UK
If a dependant child is born in the UK while their parents are under a valid visa, the child does not automatically become a British citizen. However:
- The child can be added as a dependant to the parent’s visa.
- If one parent later becomes settled or a British citizen, the child may automatically acquire British citizenship or apply for registration.
Protection and Equal Rights
Dependants are protected under UK employment and equality laws, ensuring they receive fair treatment at work and in society. They are entitled to the same minimum wage protections and workplace rights as any other lawful worker in the country.
Navigating the Dependent Visa UK Journey with Confidence
Applying for a dependent visa UK can seem complex, but with the right guidance and preparation, it becomes a structured and achievable process. The visa allows families to stay united — whether you’re joining a partner, spouse, or parent already living in the UK under a valid immigration route.
Throughout this guide, we explored the eligibility criteria, financial requirements, application steps, and common reasons for refusals. The key takeaway is that accuracy, consistency, and genuine supporting evidence form the backbone of a successful application.
Moreover, being aware of the specific category of the primary visa holder — whether a Skilled Worker, Student, or Innovator Founder — ensures that you meet the relevant conditions and financial thresholds without unnecessary errors.
For those already in the UK, maintaining lawful status, providing timely updates, and applying for visa extensions before expiration are vital. Dependants who follow these procedures can continue enjoying the benefits of living, studying, and working (where eligible) alongside their family members.
At Salam Immigration, our legal experts understand that immigration is more than paperwork — it’s about keeping families together. We provide end-to-end support, from initial consultation and document review to submission and communication with the Home Office.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or need help appealing a refusal, our dedicated immigration specialists are here to guide you through every step.
Disclaimer
The prices and fees mentioned in this blog are accurate as of the time of writing. However, these may vary depending on policy changes or personal circumstances. Please verify the latest details with our team before making any immigration decisions.
If you’re planning to apply for a dependent visa UK, or need help understanding the eligibility and documentation requirements, reach out to Salam Immigration today.
Our experienced immigration solicitors offer tailored advice, document checks, and complete case handling to make your family visa process stress-free and successful. If you are considering long-term settlement, we can also guide you through Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) applications for permanent residency in the UK.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards bringing your loved ones to the UK.
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