The United Kingdom is a global leader in finance, technology, healthcare, and culture, offering a wealth of opportunities for professionals from various backgrounds. Whether you’re considering moving to the UK for work, or you’re exploring your options within the country, understanding the unique benefits of working here can help you make an informed decision.
Who Can Be a Dependant?
Under the UK immigration rules, the following individuals are eligible to join a Skilled Worker as dependants:
Spouse or civil partner
Unmarried partner (must have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years)
Children under 18 (including children born in the UK during the Skilled Worker’s stay)
Children over 18, if they are already in the UK as dependants
Each dependant must apply for their own visa, but their eligibility is tied directly to the main Skilled Worker’s visa status.
Key Requirements for Dependant Visas
To be approved as a dependant, applicants must meet several requirements:
1. Relationship Evidence
You must provide documents proving your relationship with the Skilled Worker:
Marriage or civil partnership certificate
Proof of cohabitation for unmarried partners (joint bank accounts, utility bills, etc.)
Birth certificates for children
2. Financial Requirements
The Skilled Worker must show they can support their dependants without recourse to public funds. The financial threshold is:
£285 for a partner
£315 for one child
£200 for each additional child
These funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days before the application.
3. Accommodation
You may need to demonstrate that there is adequate accommodation for your family that meets UK housing standards.
How to Apply
Dependant visas are typically applied for online via the UK government’s official visa portal. Applications can be made from outside or inside the UK.
Each dependant must submit:
A valid passport or travel document
Biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph)
Proof of relationship
Tuberculosis test results (for certain countries)
The visa length will match the Skilled Worker’s visa expiry date.
What Rights Do Dependants Have?
Dependants of Skilled Worker visa holders enjoy several rights while living in the UK:
Work Rights: Partners can work in almost any role (except as a professional sportsperson).
Study: Dependants can enroll in courses or attend school.
Access to NHS: After paying the Immigration Health Surcharge, dependants can use the UK’s healthcare services.
Path to Settlement: Time spent in the UK as a dependant counts towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), usually after 5 years.
Tips for a Smooth Application
Double-check documentation: Relationship proof is one of the most common reasons for refusals.
Plan finances early: Make sure the financial requirement is met in full and held in the account for the required duration.
Submit a complete application: Incomplete or inconsistent applications can cause delays or rejections.
Conclusion
Bringing your family with you to the UK as a Skilled Worker is entirely possible—and understanding the rules ahead of time can make the process far smoother. From gathering the right documents to planning financially, careful preparation ensures that your loved ones can join you on your UK journey without unnecessary hiccups.
For the most up-to-date guidance or if your situation is more complex, it’s always wise to consult an immigration adviser or solicitor.
In partnership with Holmes & Partners Ltd, a leading solicitor firm with OISC Registration: F202000183.