What is a United Kingdom Dependent Visa?

The United Kingdom (UK) Dependent Visa allows family members of individuals who are living, working, or studying in the UK to join them and stay legally. This visa supports family reunification by enabling spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, dependent children, and sometimes even parents to live together in the UK. Depending on the main visa holder’s status, dependents may also be permitted to work and study in the UK, offering a wealth of opportunities for a better quality of life.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a UK Dependent Visa, the applicant must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be a spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner (in a relationship for at least 2 years), dependent child (under 18), or in rare cases, an adult dependent relative.
  • The sponsor (person residing in the UK) must hold a valid visa, such as a Skilled Worker Visa, Student Visa, Global Talent Visa, or have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
  • Must provide proof of a genuine and subsisting relationship with the sponsor.
  • The sponsor must meet minimum income and maintenance requirements to support the dependent(s) without recourse to public funds.
  • Adequate accommodation in the UK must be available.
  • Health and character requirements must be fulfilled, including a Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate where applicable.

Process and Documentation

The application process for a UK Dependent Visa includes the following key steps:

  • Collect Necessary Documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Completed visa application form (online via UK Visas and Immigration)
    • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
    • Sponsor's proof of immigration status
    • Evidence of financial capability (bank statements, pay slips, sponsorship certificate if applicable)
    • Proof of adequate accommodation in the UK
    • Tuberculosis test results (if required)
    • Police clearance certificate (if required)
    • Passport-sized photographs (as per UK visa specifications)
  • Application Submission:
    • Applications must be submitted online through the UK government visa portal.
    • Visa fee payment and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment must be made during the application process.
  • Biometric Enrolment:
    • Book and attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) for biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
  • Decision and Travel:
    • Once the application is processed, successful applicants will receive their visa vignette (entry clearance) and can then travel to the UK.
    • A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) must be collected after arrival in the UK.

Expenses

Here’s an estimate of the typical costs involved:

  • Visa application fee: Varies depending on the visa type and duration (approx. £531–£1,538 per dependent)
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Around £1,035 per year per person
  • Biometric enrolment fee: Approximately £19.20
  • Document translation and notarization: Varies depending on complexity
  • Optional service or consultancy fees: Based on service provider

Note: Costs may vary based on personal circumstances and visa type.

Why Choose Swainz?

At Swainz, we believe that reuniting families should be a seamless and stress-free journey. Here’s why families across the globe choose us for their UK Dependent Visa needs:

  • Unmatched Expertise: Our team has extensive experience with UK immigration laws and dependent visa requirements, ensuring precision and success.
  • Personalized Approach: Every family is unique. We tailor our advice and services to fit your specific situation.
  • End-to-End Service: From gathering documents to submitting applications and liaising with authorities, we manage the entire process for you.
  • Transparent Process: We are committed to full transparency — no hidden fees, no false promises, only honest guidance.
  • Fast-Track Success: With our proven strategies and attention to detail, we help you avoid delays and common pitfalls.

Let Swainz be your trusted partner in reuniting with your loved ones in the UK — quickly, smoothly, and with complete peace of mind.