In this blog, we’ll discuss the eligibility criteria, required documents, and the best visa routes for dependents.
Who is Considered a Dependent?
In the UK immigration system, a dependent is:
✔ Your husband, wife, or civil partner
✔ Your unmarried partner (if you’ve been living together for at least 2 years)
✔ Your child under 18 years old (including adopted children)
Read more about dependent visas on the UK Government website.
Which UK Visa Categories Allow Dependents?
1. Student Visa (for Master's & PhD Students)
If you are studying a postgraduate course (Master’s or PhD) at a UK university, you can bring your dependents.
Eligibility:
✔ Studying a full-time Master’s degree (9+ months) or PhD
✔ Your university must be a Higher Education Provider (HEP)
✔ You must have enough financial proof to support your dependents
Learn more about UK Student Visa: UK Student Visa Guide
2. Skilled Worker Visa (Work Visa)
If you’re moving to the UK for work under the Skilled Worker Visa, your dependents can join you.
Eligibility:
✔ Must be working for a UK employer under a Skilled Worker Visa
✔ Must earn a salary of at least £26,500 per year
✔ Your dependents must meet the maintenance fund requirement
Check Skilled Worker Visa details here: UK Skilled Worker Visa
3. Health and Care Worker Visa
If you’re a doctor, nurse, or healthcare professional, you can bring dependents under the Health and Care Worker Visa.
Benefits:
✔ No visa application fee for dependents
✔ Lower health surcharge costs
More about Health and Care Visa: UK Health and Care Visa
4. Post-Study Work (PSW) Visa / Graduate Visa
If you’ve completed a degree in the UK, you can apply for a Graduate Visa (PSW) and bring your dependents if they were already in the UK with you on a Student Visa.
Check UK PSW Visa details here: UK Graduate Visa
Financial Requirements for Dependents
To bring dependents to the UK, you need to prove that you have enough funds to support them.
Financial proof per dependent:
- Student Visa: £845/month (London) | £680/month (Outside London)
- Skilled Worker Visa: At least £285 (partner), £315 (one child), £200 (each additional child)
Check the official financial requirements: UK Government Guide
Documents Required for Dependent Visa
✔ Passport of each dependent
✔ Proof of relationship (Marriage/Birth Certificate)
✔ Proof of finances (bank statement, sponsorship letter, etc.)
✔ Your UK visa details (main applicant’s visa approval letter)
✔ Accommodation proof in the UK
How to Apply for a Dependent Visa?
1️. Apply Online: Fill out the application form on the UK Home Office website.
2️. Submit Documents: Upload necessary documents for each dependent.
3️.Pay the Visa Fee & IHS Fee: Dependents must pay visa fees and health surcharge.
4️. Biometric Appointment: Attend an appointment for fingerprints and photo.
5️. Wait for Decision: Processing time is usually 3-8 weeks.
Can Dependents Work in the UK?
- Spouse of a Skilled Worker Visa holder → Yes, can work full-time
- Spouse of a Master’s/PhD Student → Yes, can work full-time
- Dependent children → No, unless 16+ and meeting specific conditions
Conclusion:
Should You Apply with Dependents?
Bringing dependents to the UK is possible if you meet the financial and visa requirements. If you're planning to apply, make sure to check the latest rules from the UK Home Office.
Need help with your UK dependent visa? Contact Raffles Educare for expert guidance!