The Skilled Worker Visa Dependent Application allows family members of the main visa holder to accompany or join them in the UK. These dependents can live, work, and study in the UK, offering families the opportunity to stay together while one member works under the Skilled Worker Visa.
Dependents include:
Spouse or civil partner
Unmarried partner (with evidence of at least 2 years cohabitation)
Children under 18 years old
Children over 18 (if already in the UK as dependents)
This route plays a crucial role in helping skilled workers settle comfortably with their loved ones.
To apply as a dependent, you must meet specific eligibility criteria:
Spouses and Partners
Must be legally married or in a civil partnership.
Unmarried partners must prove a genuine and subsisting relationship of at least 2 years.
Children
Must be under 18 years old at the time of application (unless already granted leave as a dependent child).
Children over 18 must be financially dependent on the primary visa holder and not married or in a civil partnership.
General Requirements
Must have sufficient funds to support themselves without recourse to public funds.
Must provide proof of relationship to the main applicant.
Providing accurate documentation is crucial for a successful application. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:
Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate.
Evidence of cohabitation (for unmarried partners): joint bank statements, utility bills, rental agreements, etc.
Valid passports and biometric information.
Birth certificates.
Evidence of the child’s dependency (for those over 18).
Parental consent letter if applying separately.
Bank statements showing maintenance funds (unless the main sponsor’s employer can cover these under the Certificate of Sponsorship).
Tuberculosis test certificate (if applicable).
Police clearance certificate (in some cases).
English language requirement is not mandatory for dependents.
Always ensure that documents are translated into English by certified translators if originally in another language.
Dependents must show they can support themselves financially in the UK. As of 2025, the maintenance funds required are:
£285 for a partner
£315 for one child
£200 for each additional child
Funds must have been held in the applicant’s or sponsor’s bank account for at least 28 consecutive days.
However, many employers hold an A-rated sponsor licence and may certify maintenance on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which can waive this requirement.
The application process for dependents is quite straightforward but requires attention to detail:
Online Application Form
Complete the relevant online application form for dependents.
Pay the Fees
Each dependent must pay the application fee and healthcare surcharge.
Biometrics Appointment
Schedule and attend an appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.
Submit Documents
Upload or submit all required documents online or at the visa application centre.
Await Decision
Processing times can vary depending on the country and whether you opt for priority services.
The standard processing time for dependent visa applications is:
Outside the UK: Approximately 3 weeks.
Inside the UK (switching or extending): Around 8 weeks.
Priority services are available in some locations, reducing waiting times significantly.
Yes! One of the great benefits of the Skilled Worker Visa UK Dependent route is that:
Spouses and partners can work (without restrictions) or study.
Children can attend schools or universities.
Dependents cannot access public funds.
This offers families incredible flexibility to build their lives together in the UK.
Dependent visas are tied to the main Skilled Worker Visa holder’s status. Extensions must be made before current visas expire and generally follow the main applicant’s extension period.
Apply online for extensions.
Provide updated supporting documents.
Pay application fees and healthcare surcharge again.
If the main applicant applies for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), dependents may also apply for settlement, provided they meet the residency and eligibility requirements.
If dependents are already in the UK on another visa type, they may be able to switch to a dependent visa. Common categories that allow switching include:
Student visa dependents
Youth Mobility Scheme
Other work visas
However, visitors, short-term students, and those on temporary admission usually cannot switch from within the UK.
Dependents must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to NHS services. As of 2025, the cost is:
£1,035 per person per year.
For example, a 3-year visa would require a total IHS fee of £3,105 per applicant.
Application fees are the same for dependents as for the main applicant. As of 2025, the fees are:
Up to 3 years: £719
More than 3 years: £1,420
Keep in mind that fees can change yearly, so always verify before applying.
Dependents should not travel outside the country of application while their application is being processed. Doing so may result in the application being withdrawn.
Once granted, dependents can freely travel in and out of the UK as long as they hold valid visas.
Many applications get delayed or refused due to avoidable mistakes. Watch out for:
Incomplete or missing documents.
Insufficient financial proof.
Incorrect or expired supporting documents.
Unclear evidence of relationship.
Using outdated forms or fee structures.
Double-check everything or consider using a qualified immigration adviser.
Start the process early to gather documents.
Organize documents neatly and label them clearly.
Include a cover letter explaining relationships and evidence provided.
Use certified translations for any non-English documents.
Double-check financial requirements and eligibility rules.
A well-prepared application minimizes stress and increases approval chances.
Yes! Dependents may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after spending 5 continuous years in the UK, provided:
The main visa holder obtains ILR.
They meet residency, financial, and character requirements.
Absences from the UK do not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period.
What happens if the main visa holder loses their job?
If the main Skilled Worker Visa is cancelled, dependents’ visas are also affected. You may need to apply for a new visa category or leave the UK.
Do dependents need to meet the English language requirement?
No, dependents are not required to pass English language tests to apply.
Can dependents study in the UK?
Yes, dependents can enroll in full-time or part-time education without restrictions.
Are there any work restrictions for dependent partners?
No, partners of Skilled Worker Visa holders can work freely in the UK in any job except as a professional sportsperson.
How long does it take to process a dependent visa?
Usually around 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK, but faster processing may be available.
Can I add dependents after I move to the UK?
Yes, dependents can apply later to join you if your visa is still valid and you meet the eligibility requirements.
Conclusion
The Skilled Worker Visa UK Dependent Application offers an excellent opportunity for families to build their future together in the UK. By understanding the eligibility rules, gathering the right documents, and avoiding common mistakes, you can navigate the process smoothly.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider consulting a qualified immigration expert to guide you through the process and maximize your chance of success.
