Why Apply for a UK Dependent Visa?

The UK Dependent Visa is a crucial pathway for family reunification, enabling family members to join their loved ones who are living in the United Kingdom. Whether you are a UK citizen, permanent resident or residing in the UK on a work or study visa, this visa allows your spouse, children, or other eligible dependents to live with you. The process not only promotes family unity but also provides dependents with opportunities to work, study, and access the NHS healthcare system.
 

Moreover, the UK government’s emphasis on family reunification ensures that dependents can settle in the UK with a clear path toward permanent residency. Upon meeting the eligibility criteria and successfully applying for this visa, families can create a new life together in the UK, benefiting from the country's strong social services, employment prospects, and a high quality of life.|
 

• 86,000 family-related visas were issued in 2024
• Can work immediately on arrival
• Pathway to Residency after 5 years
• Fast Processing within 8-12 weeks|
   

What is a UK Dependent Visa?

The UK Dependent Visa is a type of visa that allows the family members of UK residents to join them in the United Kingdom. This visa is available for spouses, children, and, in some cases, other dependent relatives such as parents or elderly family members who rely on the primary visa holder for financial support and care.
 

This visa enables individuals to reunite with their loved ones and provides them the opportunity to live together in the UK. It also offers many benefits, including work rights for spouses and children in some categories, allowing them to contribute to the economy and gain financial independence. Additionally, dependents may be able to access free healthcare through the NHS and enrol in the UK education system.
 

The UK Dependent Visa is vital for ensuring that families can stay together in the UK, fostering both emotional and social stability. Depending on the type of visa and relationship, applicants may also have the opportunity to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after a certain period, eventually paving the way for permanent residency and citizenship.
 

Types of UK Dependent Visas

There are several types of UK Dependent Visas, each catering to different family relationships. Understanding which visa to apply for is essential for a smooth application process.
 

Spouse Visa

This visa is for individuals married to or in a civil partnership with a UK citizen or permanent resident. Applicants must meet relationship and financial requirements, including proof of marriage and sufficient income.
 

Child Visa

The Child Visa is for children under 18 years of age who wish to join their parents in the UK. A birth certificate and proof of dependency are necessary to apply.
 

Parent Visa

This visa allows parents of British citizens or residents to live in the UK, provided they meet the necessary dependency and financial support criteria.
 

Dependent Visa for Tier 2/Skilled Worker Visa Holders

Family members of individuals holding a Tier 2 or Skilled Worker Visa are eligible for a dependent visa. The family member may be allowed to work or study during their stay.
 

Eligibility to apply for a UK Dependent Visa

To be eligible for a UK Dependent Visa, both the applicant and the sponsor must meet certain requirements:
 

• Sponsor’s Status: The sponsor must be a UK citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid visa (work, study, or settlement).
• Relationship Proof: Applicants must prove the relationship (marriage, civil partnership, or birth certificate for children).
• Financial Requirements: The sponsor must meet minimum income requirements to support the dependent without relying on public funds.
• Accommodation: Proof of adequate accommodation in the UK is required.
• English Language Proficiency: For spouses, a basic level of English (A1 level) is often necessary unless exempt.
   

Requirements to Apply for a UK Dependent Visa

To apply for a UK Dependent Visa, the following requirements must be met by both the applicant (dependent) and the sponsor (the person residing in the UK):

1. Relationship Proof

For Spouses/Partners: A valid marriage certificate or proof of civil partnership must be provided. For unmarried partners, evidence of cohabitation and a relationship of at least 2 years is required.
 

For Children: A birth certificate showing the relationship to the sponsoring parent or guardian.

For Parents: Proof of dependency, such as financial or caregiving reliance on the sponsor.
 

2. Sponsor’s Status

The sponsor must be a UK citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid visa in the UK (such as a Skilled Worker Visa, Student Visa, or EU Settlement Scheme). The sponsor must demonstrate their legal residence in the UK.
 

3. Financial Requirements

Minimum Income Threshold: The sponsor must meet a specific financial threshold to prove they can support the dependent without resorting to public funds. This is typically £18,600 annually for a spouse or child. Additional income may be required for larger families.
 

Financial Evidence: Payslips, bank statements, or proof of the sponsor’s income or savings to meet this requirement.
 

4. Accommodation

The sponsor must prove that there is adequate accommodation available for the dependent(s) in the UK. This can include tenancy agreements or property ownership documents.
 

5. English Language Proficiency

Spouse Visa applicants must prove basic English proficiency (A1 level) unless exempt.
 

The applicant may be required to take an English language test (e.g., IELTS for UKVI) to meet the required standard, or evidence of previous qualifications in English may be submitted.
 

6. Application Form and Documents

Applicants must complete the appropriate visa application form online via the UK government website.
 

Required Documents include:

• Passport or travel documents
• Proof of relationship
• Proof of income (sponsor’s)
• Evidence of accommodation in the UK
• English language proficiency (if applicable)
• Visa application fee payment proof
   

7. Biometric Information

Applicants must provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) as part of the application process.
 

This is usually done at a local VFS Global center or UK Visa Application Center (VAC) in Australia.
 

8. Visa Application Fee

The visa application fee varies, depending on the type of dependent visa (spouse, child, parent). For example:
 

• Spouse/Partner Visa: £1,523
• Child Visa: £1,523
• Biometric Fee: £19.20
   

9. Health Surcharge

Applicants may need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which provides access to the NHS (National Health Service) during their stay in the UK.
 

How to Apply for a UK Dependent Visa from Australia?

Here’s the step-by-step process for applying for a UK Dependent Visa from Australia:
 

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including relationship proof, financial evidence, and the sponsor’s details.
 

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Fill out the visa application form online through the UK government’s visa and immigration portal.
 

Step 3: Pay Visa Fee

Pay the visa application fee online via a debit/credit card. Ensure you also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable).
 

Step 4: Schedule an Appointment

Book a biometric appointment with a VFS Global centre (Sydney, Melbourne, or Perth) to submit your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
 

Step 5: Submit the Application

Attend your appointment to submit your documents and biometric data.
 

Step 6: Wait for Processing

Processing typically takes 8–12 weeks, but may vary based on the case complexity. Ensure that your contact details are up to date.
 

UK Dependent Visa Fees

UK Dependent Visa Fees
Visa Type	Fees
Partner/Spouse Visa	£1,938
Child Visa	£1,321
Parent Visa	£1,938
Dependent Visa for Tier 2/Skilled Worker Visa Holders	£719 to £1,639
Biometric Fee	£19.20

 

Processing time of UK Dependent visa

UK Dependent Visa Processing Time
Visa Type	Processing Time
Partner/Spouse Visa	8–12 weeks
Child Visa	8–12 weeks
Parent Visa	8–12 weeks
Dependent Visa for Tier 2/Skilled Worker Visa Holders	8–12 weeks

 

Benefits of a UK Dependent Visa

There are numerous advantages to obtaining a UK Dependent Visa:

• Family Reunification: Enables you to live with your spouse, children, or parents in the UK.
• Work and Study Rights: Dependents may be eligible for unrestricted work and study opportunities.
• Access to Social Benefits: Dependents can access the UK’s healthcare and education system.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Spouses and dependents can eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
• Cultural Integration: The UK offers a diverse and vibrant environment for families to settle and grow.
   

How can Y-Axis Help You?

At Y-Axis, we provide comprehensive support for your UK Dependent Visa application:

• Visa Assessment: We evaluate your eligibility for the dependent visa.
• Document Assistance: Helping you gather and verify all necessary documentation.
• Application Guidance: Step-by-step assistance in completing the online application and submitting your biometrics.
• Visa Tracking: We keep track of your application status and offer updates.
• Guidance to apply for Dependent visa
• Sign up with Y-Axis for complete guidance
   

Contact us today to ensure a smooth and successful UK dependent visa application!