UK Dependent Visa 2026/2027: How to Apply for a 5-Year Visa for Family Members - MYDPORT

If you are planning to move to the UK and want your family to join you, a UK Dependent Visa is essential. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what documents and requirements you need to meet for your spouse, partner, or children.

What Is a UK Dependent Visa?

The UK Dependent Visa allows family members of visa holders to live, work, and study in the UK. It applies to family members of individuals with:

• Skilled Worker visas (formerly Tier 2)

• Temporary Worker visas (formerly Tier 5)

• Global Talent, Innovator, or Representative of International Business visas

• UK Ancestry visas

Dependents include spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners in long-term relationships, and children under 18.

Who Can Apply as a Dependent?

Eligible family members include:

1. Spouses or Civil Partners – Must be married or in a legally recognized partnership.

2. Unmarried or Same-Sex Partners – Must prove a committed relationship for at least two years.

3. Children Under 18 – Must be dependent on the parent(s) applying or already in the UK.

4. Special Circumstances – Children may qualify as dependents of a single parent if there are compelling reasons.

Financial Requirements

To qualify for a dependent visa, the family must be able to support themselves without relying on public funds:

• £285 in savings for a dependent partner

• £315 for the first dependent child

• £200 for each additional child

Exceptions apply if the primary visa holder’s sponsor is A-rated, guaranteeing financial support.

How to Apply for a UK Dependent Visa

Applications can be submitted online from inside or outside the UK (except North Korea). Key steps include:

1. Complete Online Application – Fill in personal and travel details.

2. Prepare Documents – Include passport, birth/marriage certificates, relationship evidence, TB test results (if required), and any background check documentation.

3. Pay Fees – See the “Cost” section below for details.

4. Submit Biometric Data – Fingerprints and photos for ID verification.

Important: Documents not in English or Welsh must be professionally translated. UKVI checks the authenticity of all documents, and false information may lead to a 10-year ban.

How Long Does a Dependent Visa Take?

• Outside the UK: Standard processing takes up to 12 weeks.

• Inside the UK: Standard processing takes up to 8 weeks.

• Priority Service: Decision in 5 working days (extra fee applies).

• Super Priority Service: Decision in 24 hours (extra fee applies).

Cost of a UK Dependent Visa

• Dependent visa (same as primary applicant): £610 for a 3-year visa, £1,220 for a 5-year visa.

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per adult/year, £470 per child/year.

• Biometric enrollment: £19.20 within the UK.

Additional fees apply depending on visa type, e.g., Skilled Worker, Health & Care, Innovator, Ancestry, or Graduate Trainee visas.

Rights and Benefits of a Dependent Visa

• Work: Dependents can work in most professions, except professional athletes or trainee doctors/dentists.

• Study: Dependents can study at UK schools or universities.

• Healthcare: Access to NHS after paying the IHS.

• Family Unity: Families can live together in the UK.

• Path to Settlement: Eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after completing qualifying periods.

Key Requirements

• Proof of Relationship: Spouses or partners must demonstrate a committed relationship; children must be dependent.

• Financial Capability: Dependents must show sufficient funds or sponsorship.

• Visa Duration: Dependent visas match the primary visa holder’s duration. Extensions are possible.

• Eligibility: Only immediate family members (spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, and children under 18) can apply.

How A Y & J Solicitors Can Help

Navigating the UK Dependent Visa process can be complex. A Y & J Solicitors offers:

• Expert guidance on all dependent visa routes

• Assistance with preparing and organizing documents

• Legal advice to increase the chances of visa approval

• Support from initial consultation to final decision

FAQs

1. What is a UK Dependent Visa?
A visa that allows family members to join a UK visa holder.

2. Do I need English proficiency?
Not for a dependent visa. Required only for settlement applications (ILR).

3. Can dependents work in the UK?
Yes, except as professional athletes or trainee doctors/dentists.

4. How long is a dependent visa valid?
Visa length depends on the primary applicant’s visa. Typically 3–5 years, with extension options.

5. Who can sponsor a dependent visa?
Only eligible visa holders (Skilled Worker, Innovator, Global Talent, UK Ancestry, etc.) can sponsor family members.