The UK Dependent Visa facilitates family reunification by allowing eligible relatives to join loved ones in the United Kingdom. Applicants must demonstrate their relationship to the main visa holder, financial stability, suitable accommodation arrangements, and potential English language proficiency. The application process involves compiling necessary documents, completing forms, attending biometric appointments, and awaiting decisions from UK Visas and Immigration. Upon approval, dependents can make arrangements to travel to the UK and reunite with their family members. This visa category not only fosters familial bonds but also provides opportunities for building a shared future in the diverse and welcoming environment of the UK.

1. The UK Dependent Visa Journey
Moving to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging journey, especially when it
involves separation from loved ones. However, for those seeking to join family members in
the United Kingdom, the UK Dependent Visa offers a pathway to reunification and building a
life together. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into what the UK Dependent Visa
entails, who is eligible, and the application process.
What is a UK Dependent Visa?
The UK Dependent Visa facilitates family reunification by allowing eligible relatives to join
loved ones in the United Kingdom. Applicants must demonstrate their relationship to the
main visa holder, financial stability, suitable accommodation arrangements, and potential
English language proficiency. The application process involves compiling necessary
documents, completing forms, attending biometric appointments, and awaiting decisions
from UK Visas and Immigration. Upon approval, dependents can make arrangements to travel
to the UK and reunite with their family members. This visa category not only fosters familial
bonds but also provides opportunities for building a shared future in the diverse and
welcoming environment of the UK.
Who can bring dependents on a UK dependent visa?
The dependent on the UK dependent visa can be brought by individuals who are already
living in the United Kingdom and hold a valid visa or immigration status. Eligible sponsors
include British citizens, settled persons with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), individuals with
refugee status or humanitarian protection, and those with certain types of work or study
visas. Sponsors can apply for their dependents, including spouses, civil partners, unmarried
partners, children, and sometimes other family members, to join them in the UK under the UK
Dependent Visa category. This visa facilitates family reunification and allows dependents to
build a life together with their loved ones in the UK.
Requirements of a UK dependent visa
The requirements for a UK dependent visa typically include:
Relationship Proof: Evidence of being a close family member of the main visa holder, such as
marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other legal documentation.
Financial Support: Proof that the main visa holder can financially support the dependent
without needing public funds, often demonstrated through bank statements, employment
contracts, or sponsorship letters.

2. Accommodation: Documentation confirming suitable accommodation arrangements for the
dependent in the UK, such as a rental agreement or property ownership papers.
English Language Proficiency: Depending on the circumstances, some dependents may need
to demonstrate English language proficiency, usually through standardized tests like IELTS or
TOEFL.
Healthcare Surcharge: Payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge to access the National
Health Service (NHS) in the UK is typically required for dependent applicants.
Biometric Information: Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a
photograph for identity verification purposes.
Clean Criminal Record: Declaration of any criminal convictions and provision of a police
clearance certificate if required.
Application Forms: Completion of the appropriate visa application form, providing accurate
and truthful information.
Process of a UK dependent visa
1. Eligibility Check: Verify if you qualify as a dependent by assessing your relationship to
the main visa holder and demonstrating financial dependency through various criteria
such as income and accommodation.
2. Gather Documents: Assemble essential paperwork, including passports, proof of
relationship like marriage certificates, financial records showing dependency, and details
of accommodation arrangements in the UK.
3. Complete Application Form: Fill out the visa application form meticulously, either online
or in person, ensuring all sections are accurately completed with the correct information
as per the guidelines.
4. Pay Fees: Make the required payment for visa application fees, which vary depending on
the type of visa and the applicant’s circumstances, ensuring to follow the payment
instructions provided by the authorities.
5. Biometric Appointment: Attend a scheduled appointment to provide biometric data,
including fingerprints and a photograph, as part of the identity verification process, as
required by the UK immigration authorities.
6. Submit Application: Submit the completed application form along with all supporting
documents either online through the official portal or at a designated visa application
center, adhering to the specified submission guidelines and deadlines.
7. Wait for Decision: Await a decision from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), understanding
that processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications and the
complexity of individual cases while ensuring regular check of the application status
updates.
8. Receive Visa: Upon approval, receive the UK Dependent Visa, granting permission to
enter the UK and reunite with the main visa holder, allowing you to start a new chapter of
life together in the United Kingdom.

3. UK Dependent Visa Validity and Conditions
The validity and conditions of a UK Dependent Visa vary depending on the type of visa held
by the main applicant and the specific circumstances of the dependent. Typically:
Dependent visa holders need to adhere to the conditions of their visa and comply with UK
immigration laws to avoid any issues or complications during their stay in the UK.
How to Apply for a UK Student Dependent Visa
To apply for a UK Student Dependent Visa, follow these steps:
1. Validity: The visa’s validity usually corresponds with the main visa holder’s permission to
stay in the UK. It may be granted for the same duration or a shorter period, depending on
the situation.
2. Conditions: Dependent visa holders are usually restricted to certain activities, such as
studying, working, or accessing healthcare. They may not be allowed to undertake certain
activities, like accessing public funds or working in certain professions.
3. Renewal: Dependent visas may need to be renewed periodically, especially if the main
visa holder’s permission to stay in the UK is extended. Renewal applications typically
involve demonstrating continued dependency and meeting any updated requirements.
4. Right to Work: Depending on the type of visa held by the main applicant, dependent visa
holders may have the right to work in the UK. However, they may need to apply for a
separate work permit or meet specific conditions to do so.
5. Study: Dependent visa holders may be permitted to study in the UK, usually without the
need for an additional student visa. However, restrictions may apply, such as limitations
on accessing certain types of education or funding.
6. Travel: Dependent visa holders are usually allowed to travel in and out of the UK during
the visa’s validity period. However, prolonged absences or changes in circumstances may
affect their immigration status and should be reported to the relevant authorities.
1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you qualify as a dependent of the main student visa holder,
usually a Tier 4 (general) student or a student visa holder under the new points-based
immigration system.
2. Gather Documents: Collect required documents, including passports, proof of
relationship (such as marriage or birth certificates), financial records demonstrating
dependency, and accommodation details.
3. Complete Application Form: Fill out the online visa application form accurately,
providing all necessary information about yourself and the main student visa holder.
4. Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fees, which vary depending on your location and the
processing options chosen.
5. Biometric Appointment: Schedule and attend a biometric appointment to provide
fingerprints and a photograph at a designated visa application center or service point.
6. Submit Application: Submit the completed application form and supporting documents
online or at the visa application center.

4. It’s important to ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date and to follow the
application guidelines provided by UKVI to increase the chances of a successful application.
Benefits of a UK Student Dependent Visa
Overall, the UK Student Dependent Visa offers dependents the chance to accompany and
support the main student visa holder during their educational journey in the UK, while also
providing opportunities for personal growth and development.
Processing Time for a UK Dependent Visa
The processing time for a UK dependent visa depends on where you are applying from.
Outside the UK, it could take up to 12 weeks to process your application from the date of your
visa appointment
Within the UK, the current service standard is 8 weeks from the appointment date.
7. Wait for a Decision: Await a decision from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Processing
times may fluctuate based on the number of applications received and individual
circumstances.
8. Receive Visa: If approved, you will receive the UK Student Dependent Visa, allowing you
to join the main student visa holder in the UK.
1. Family Reunification: Allows spouses, civil partners, and children to join the main student
visa holder in the UK, promoting family unity during the student’s studies.
2. Study Opportunities: Dependents can accompany the student and have the opportunity
to live and study in the UK, accessing quality education and expanding their academic
horizons.
3. Work Permission: Depending on the main student visa holder’s program and level of
study, dependents may be eligible to work in the UK, contributing to family finances or
gaining valuable work experience.
4. Access to Healthcare: Dependent visa holders are entitled to use the National Health
Service (NHS) in the UK, ensuring access to medical care and support during their stay.
5. Travel Flexibility: Allows dependents to travel in and out of the UK freely during the visa’s
validity period, facilitating visits to family and friends or travel for leisure or business
purposes.
6. Opportunity for Family Support: Provides emotional and practical support to the main
student visa holder, enhancing their overall well-being and academic success.
7. Potential for Settlement: Depending on the main student visa holder’s circumstances
and plans, the UK Student Dependent Visa could serve as a pathway to settlement in the
UK for the whole family.

5. There are also expedited options available for an extra fee:
Priority service: This can get you a decision within 5 working days from outside the UK.
Super-priority service: This can get you a decision within 24 hours from inside the UK.
Cost of a UK Dependent Visa
The dependent visa cost in the UK depends on two main factors:
There’s a flat fee for adult dependents (£1,846 from outside the UK, £1,048 from inside), but it
can vary depending on the situation.
Summary
The UK Dependent Visa enables eligible family members to join loved ones in the UK.
Whether reuniting with a spouse, civil partner, or student, the UK Dependent Visa offers
opportunities for family unity and support. For students, the UK Student Dependent Visa
allows dependents to accompany the main visa holder, accessing education and potentially
work opportunities. Processing times may vary, so applicants should check the official
guidelines for the latest information.
1. Where you are applying from: Applying from outside the UK is generally more expensive.
2. The main applicant’s visa type is: The cost is linked to the visa category of the person you
are dependent on.