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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:
A Guide to the Dependant Visa
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.
For Expert legal advice and assistance, reach out to Imran & Co Solicitors today.