Home and Heart, unifying the family: The UK Dependent Visa Route for Loved Ones
The UK Dependant Visa route is designed to allow family members of individuals who are in the UK on a job, study, or other qualifying visas to join them and live in the UK. This visa route is a key aspect of family unity, ensuring that family members can support each other while living in the UK. Here’s an overview of the UK Dependant Visa route:
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
Dependants:
- Spouses or Civil Partners: Legally married or in a civil partnership with the main visa holder.
- Unmarried Partners: Must have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least two years.
- Children: Must be under 18 years old when they apply, or over 18 if they are already in the UK as a dependent.
- Other Family Members: In some cases, other family members, such as elderly parents, can apply as dependants, though this is less common and subject to strict criteria.
Main Visa Holder:
- The main visa holder must be in the UK on a qualifying visa, such as a Tier 2 (General) Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, Student Visa, or other eligible categories.
Requirements: What is Needed?
Relationship Evidence:
Proof of the relationship, such as marriage or civil partnership certificates, birth certificates for children, and evidence of cohabitation for unmarried partners.
Financial Requirements:
The main visa holder must demonstrate that they have enough funds to support their dependants without relying on public funds. The specific amount depends on the type of visa the main visa holder has.
Accommodation:
Adequate accommodation must be available for the dependant(s).
Genuine and Subsisting Relationship:
Evidence must be provided to show that the relationship is genuine and ongoing.
Application Process
Online Application:
Applications for dependant visas are typically made online. The process varies slightly depending on whether the application is being made from within or outside the UK.
Supporting Documents:
Documents proving the relationship, financial stability, accommodation, and other relevant information must be submitted.
Biometrics:
Applicants need to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Decision Time:
The processing time can vary but usually takes a few weeks.
After Arrival in the UK
Visa Duration:
The dependant visa is usually granted for the same period as the main visa holder’s stay in the UK.
Rights and Benefits:
Dependants can work or study in the UK, though children will need to attend school.
Extensions and Settlement:
Dependants can apply to extend their stay in line with the main visa holder. After living in the UK for a certain period, they may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and eventually, British citizenship.
Path to Togetherness
The UK Dependant Visa route embodies the importance of family unity, ensuring that loved ones can stay together and support each other in a new country. It offers a structured and compassionate approach for families to build their lives in the UK, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
FAQ (Frequently asked questions):
A Dependant Visa allows family members of individuals who are already in the UK under a qualifying visa category to join or remain with them. This typically includes spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, and children.
Eligible dependants usually include:
- Spouses or civil partners.
- Unmarried partners (if you have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage or civil partnership for at least two years).
- Children under 18 years old.
- In some cases, children over 18 if they are already in the UK as your dependant.
The main visa holder must demonstrate sufficient funds to support their dependants without relying on public funds. The required amount varies depending on the main visa category and the number of dependants.
A Dependant Visa is typically granted for the same period as the main visa holder’s visa. It can be extended in line with the main visa holder’s visa extension.
Yes, dependants can work (with some restrictions depending on the main visa category) and study in the UK.
No, dependants do not need to pass an English language test to obtain a visa.
- Outside the UK: Dependants apply online and attend a visa application center for biometric data collection.
- Inside the UK: Dependants can apply online for visa extensions or switching categories, including providing biometric data.
Dependants may apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after living in the UK for a qualifying period, usually 5 years, provided they meet the continuous residence and other requirements.
Documents typically required include:
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
- Evidence of funds (bank statements, financial support letters).
- Copy of the main visa holder’s passport and visa.
- Proof of accommodation in the UK.
The cost varies based on several factors such as the type of main visa, length of stay, and whether the application is made inside or outside the UK. It generally includes an application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
If a Dependant Visa application is refused, applicants may:
- Request an administrative review if they believe there was a mistake in the decision.
- Submit a new application addressing the reasons for refusal.
- Appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) if eligible.
Yes, dependants can travel outside the UK and return, provided their visa is valid. However, extended absences might affect future applications for settlement.
Yes, dependants are required to pay the IHS as part of their visa application, which grants them access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
Additional Tips
- Ensure all information and documents are accurate and up to date to avoid delays or refusals.
- Start the application process early to account for any processing delays.
- Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.
For the most accurate and detailed information, always refer to the official UK government website or consult with an immigration advisor.
For Expert legal advice and assistance, reach out to Imran & Co Solicitors today.
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