In 2025, the UK dependant visa remains a lifesaver for foreign families. Family members of certain visa holders are permitted to accompany them to the UK under the UK dependant visa route. The UK Dependent Visa Regulations are undergoing a major revision by the UK Government.
The objectives are to improve integration, lower net migration, and boost public confidence in the immigration system. Spouses, partners, and other family members who wish to join their loved ones in the UK are directly impacted by the UK dependent visa new rules.
What Is a UK Dependent Visa?
During their stay in the UK, families can continue to assist one another and retain their bonds by allowing dependents to live, work, and study there. You can also apply for a UK Visit visa, which is a temporary option for family members who do not yet qualify for a UK dependant visa but want to visit the country.
Who Can Apply for a Dependent Visa to the UK?
If you are in the UK, you can apply for a dependent visa.
a) The primary visa holder’s spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or husband.
b) Any kid under the age of eighteen, including those born in the UK while you were there.
c) Only if the child is already in the UK on leave as a dependent and is older than 18.
Who Is Still Allowed to Bring Dependents?
a) If you are married and have kids, you can still bring them.
b) A competent worker in a non-care position.
c) A person with a Global Talent Visa.
d) Having a valid long-term work visa.
Before applying, you will have to confirm that you meet the standards for relationship and financial proof.
Applying for a Dependent Visa to the UK from Within or Outside the Country
Should you be applying from outside the United Kingdom
a) Use the worker or student application number to submit an online application.
b) Go to the closest visa application center and schedule a biometric appointment.
If you are applying from within the United Kingdom.
a) You must not be on a visit visa or a temporary visa.
b) Scan or upload papers at a UKVCAS center.
Requirements for UK Dependent Visas in 2025
The UK dependent visa requirements include,
1) Required paperwork for a dependant visa
a) A current passport.
b) Relationship documentation, such as a marriage license, birth certificate, or evidence of two years of cohabitation.
c) Financial proof, such as sponsor letters and bank statements.
d) A TB test certificate, if your nation requires one.
e) A copy of the BRP or the visa decision letter for the primary applicant.
f) A verified English translation must be included with all non-English documents.
g) A certificate of marriage or birth.
h) Your UAN or GWF visa reference number.
i) Evidence that the child resides with you, such as a bank statement or letter from the NHS.
2) Financial Requirement
a) Each dependent must demonstrate 680 pounds each month for up to nine months.
b) You must pay 6,120 pounds if the visa is for more than nine months.
c) Dependents with a valid visa who have been in the UK for 12 months or longer are exempt from proving their financial stability.
3) The UK Student Dependent Visa
The condition for a student dependent visa UK in 2025 is that the student,
a) Participates in a doctoral program or RQF 8.
b) Has been enrolled for more than six months and is supported by the government.
Dependent eligibility is now restricted for the majority of Master’s programs.
4) UK Spouse and Child Dependent Visa
Students and employees who are eligible may be accompanied by spouses and children. You have to provide proof that,
a) A Birth certificate for children.
b) Marriage certificate for spouses.
c) Evidence of cohabitation for unmarried partners. If you have been in a civil partnership or marriage-like relationship for at least two years, you are considered an unmarried partner. Typically, living together for the two years prior to applying for a visa would serve as proof of this.
A visa that expires on the same day as yours will be issued to each dependent. The UK Family Visit Visa is valid for a maximum of six months and does not allow for employment or permanent residency.
Cost of a UK Dependent Visa
a) The application price for a dependent visa UK is 524 pounds per person.
b) The annual IHS, or healthcare surcharge, is 776 pounds. It is the same as the main applicant.
c) Location-specific optional priority services are available.
UK Visa Categories Allowing Dependents
| Skilled Worker Visa | Sufficient funds to support dependants, job must meet salary/skill criteria | Can live, work, and study. Restrictions apply to new care worker roles post-11 March 2024 |
| Health and Care Worker Visa | A Job offer in eligible health or care role, financial support | Can live, work, and study. No dependants allowed for new care worker applicants (SOC 6145/6146) after 11 March 2024 |
| Student Visa | Dependants only allowed if studying a PhD, postgraduate research course, or government-sponsored for over 6 months | Can live, study, and work with some restrictions |
| Graduate Visa | Must have held a Student visa; dependants must have been in the UK as dependants on that visa | Can live, work, and study. No new dependants permitted |
| Innovator Founder Visa | Endorsement and sufficient funds | Can live, work, and study without restrictions |
| Global Talent Visa | Endorsement or qualifying award in recognised field | Can live, work, and study without restrictions |
| High Potential Individual Visa | Qualification from an eligible overseas institution within the last 5 years | Can live, work, and study. Visa is not extendable |
| Start-up Visa | Endorsement and financial support (route closed to new applicants) | Can live, work, and study. Only applies to existing visa holders |
| Temporary Worker (T5) | Eligible short-term work role, financial support | Some categories allow dependants (example Religious Worker). Rights vary by route |
| UK Ancestry Visa | Proof of UK ancestry and ability to support oneself and dependants | Can live, work, and study without restrictions |
| Settlement / ILR | Dependent on the main applicant holding ILR and meeting continuous residence rules | Can live, work, and study freely. No immigration restrictions |
Tips for a Successful Dependent Visa Application in the UK
a) Verify your visa’s validity. Avoid overstaying since this may result in penalties and deportation.
b) For the most recent information, visit the official website frequently.
c) Make sure your paperwork is ready.
d) Create a budget beforehand. Verify that you meet the requirements for a UK dependent visa, including having the maintenance funds.
Final Remarks
A Six Months Multiple-Entry UK Visa that permits multiple visits is available to travelers. Although it allows for freedom in travel, UK immigration law prohibits it from offering dependent settlement prospects. If you have any questions, you can consult an immigration lawyer who can guide you through the procedure.
FAQs
1) Does a UK Dependent Visa Require an IELTS Score?
As of right now, candidates for dependent visas to the UK (spouses or kids) are exempt from taking the IELTS or any other English language exam. New regulations, however, will soon demand that adult dependents of employees or students show a baseline level of English competence.
2) Is it possible for me to convert my UK Dependent Visa to a Work Visa?
In the UK, dependents can apply for a skilled worker visa if they have a job offer from a licensed sponsor. You will have to apply up to three months before the start of their employment.
3) Are Dependents Allowed to Work in the UK Full-Time?
In the UK, dependents over 16 are allowed to work full-time with few limitations. They are unable to work as coaches or as professional athletes, though. They may work full-time, part-time, or as independent contractors.
4) What is the duration of the dependent visa?
The visa validity of your dependent will be the same as that of your own. For instance, your spouse and child visas will expire in 2026, the same time as your student visa.
5) What happens if my child is born in the UK?
British citizenship is not a given for children born in the UK. You will need to apply for a dependent visa if the child will travel outside of the UK or requires medical care for longer than three months. Unless one parent is solely responsible for the child, both parents must be in the UK at the time of the application.