Introduction
The Skilled Worker Dependent Visa allows family members of individuals holding a Skilled Worker Visa to join them in the UK. If you are a spouse, unmarried partner, or child of someone with a Skilled Worker Visa, this visa gives you the opportunity to live, study, and work in the UK. In this guide, we’ll cover the eligibility requirements, the application process, and everything you need to know about obtaining a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa in the UK.
1. What Is a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa?
The Skilled Worker Dependent Visa allows the family members of a person holding a Skilled Worker Visa (formerly known as the Tier 2 General Visa) to join them in the UK. It applies to immediate family members such as a spouse or partner and dependent children. Holders of this visa can live and work in the UK and enjoy many of the same rights as their primary visa holder.
The Skilled Worker Dependent Visa is granted for the same duration as the main Skilled Worker Visa holder’s visa and must be renewed or extended when the main visa is renewed.
2. Who Is Eligible for a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa?
To be eligible for a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa, you must be a family member of someone who holds a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK. The eligible family members include:
2.1 Spouse or Unmarried Partner
You can apply if you are the:
- Legally married spouse of the Skilled Worker visa holder.
- Unmarried partner (in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years) of the Skilled Worker.
2.2 Dependent Children
You can apply if you are a dependent child of the Skilled Worker visa holder. To qualify, dependent children must be:
- Under 18 years of age at the time of the application.
- Financially dependent on the Skilled Worker visa holder if over 18 but already in the UK as a dependent.
2.3 Other Dependents
In rare cases, other family members such as elderly parents may apply, but they must prove they are financially dependent on the Skilled Worker visa holder, and these applications are more complex.
3. Requirements for a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa
There are several requirements that must be met for a successful application for the Skilled Worker Dependent Visa. These include proving your relationship, having sufficient financial resources, and showing that you meet the basic conditions for entry into the UK.
3.1 Relationship Requirements
You must be able to prove your relationship to the main visa holder through:
- A marriage certificate for spouses.
- Evidence of living together for at least 2 years for unmarried partners (e.g., joint utility bills, bank statements, tenancy agreements).
- A birth certificate for dependent children.
3.2 Financial Requirements
The Skilled Worker Dependent Visa requires proof of financial resources to show that you can support yourself and your dependents while living in the UK. You will need to demonstrate that you have:
- £285 for a dependent partner.
- £315 for the first child.
- £200 for each additional child.
These amounts are in addition to the financial requirement for the main Skilled Worker visa holder, and you must show that you have had the required funds for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting your visa application.
3.3 Proof of Accommodation
You must show that you have appropriate accommodation for you and your family members in the UK, and that it will not be overcrowded or violate housing laws.
3.4 No Criminal Convictions
All applicants must provide a clean criminal record certificate from any country where they have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years, if applicable.
3.5 Health Insurance and Tuberculosis Test
If you are coming to the UK from certain countries, you will need to take a tuberculosis test and provide a certificate proving you are free of the disease. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
4. How to Apply for a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa
4.1 Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before applying, make sure you have all the necessary documents to support your application. These typically include:
- A valid passport.
- Marriage certificate or evidence of relationship (for unmarried partners).
- Birth certificates for children.
- Proof of financial support, such as bank statements showing sufficient funds.
- Accommodation details, such as a rental agreement.
- Tuberculosis test certificate (if required).
- Criminal record check (if applicable).
4.2 Step 2: Complete the Online Application
You can apply for the Skilled Worker Dependent Visa online through the official UK government website. Each dependent must fill out a separate application form, even if they are applying together as part of a family.
4.3 Step 3: Pay the Application Fees
The application fee for each dependent varies depending on how long the visa is being applied for. It generally ranges from £610 to £1,408, depending on the visa length and whether the applicant is applying from inside or outside the UK. In addition to the visa fee, each applicant will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year for each adult dependent and £470 per year for each child.
4.4 Step 4: Book a Biometrics Appointment
After submitting the online application, you will need to book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photo). If you are applying from within the UK, this can be done at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
4.5 Step 5: Wait for Processing
The processing times for the Skilled Worker Dependent Visa typically range from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on where you are applying from. You can opt for priority services to speed up the process, but this will incur additional fees.
5. Conditions and Rights for Skilled Worker Dependent Visa Holders
Once granted a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa, you will have several rights, including:
- Work Rights: Dependent visa holders can work in the UK, either as an employee or self-employed. However, working as a professional sportsperson is generally restricted.
- Study Rights: Dependents can study in the UK without additional permissions.
- Access to Healthcare: By paying the Immigration Health Surcharge, dependents have access to the NHS.
- Travel: Dependent visa holders can travel in and out of the UK freely during the visa’s validity.
6. Extending or Renewing a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa
Dependent visas are usually granted for the same duration as the main visa holder’s Skilled Worker Visa. You must renew your visa at the same time as the main visa holder. To extend your Skilled Worker Dependent Visa, follow these steps:
6.1 Step 1: Apply for an Extension
As your visa’s expiration approaches, you can apply to extend your dependent visa along with the main visa holder. The extension process is similar to the initial application, requiring proof of finances, relationship, and accommodation.
6.2 Step 2: Pay the Renewal Fees
Similar to the initial application, you will need to pay an application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) again when applying for a visa renewal.
6.3 Step 3: Wait for Processing
Processing times for visa renewals are usually quicker than initial applications but can still take several weeks. Priority services are available for an additional cost.
7. Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a Dependent
After holding a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa for 5 years, you may become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK. ILR allows you to stay in the UK without time limits and is the first step toward British citizenship.
7.1 Eligibility for ILR
- You must have lived in the UK for at least 5 years as a dependent of a Skilled Worker visa holder.
- You must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period during your 5 years of residence.
- You must meet the English language requirements and pass the Life in the UK test.
7.2 ILR Application Process
The ILR application process requires filling out a form, submitting supporting documents, and paying a fee. Once you obtain ILR, you will no longer need a visa to live and work in the UK.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa
8.1 Insufficient Financial Proof
Failing to provide evidence of sufficient financial resources is a common reason for visa refusals. Ensure your bank statements show the required funds for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
8.2 Incomplete Documentation
Ensure that all required documents are complete, translated into English if necessary, and properly submitted.
8.3 Misrepresentation of Relationship
Unmarried partners must provide strong evidence of a genuine relationship. Missing or inadequate documentation can lead to visa refusals.
9. FAQs About the Skilled Worker Dependent Visa
Can Skilled Worker dependents work in the UK?
Yes, dependent visa holders can work in the UK without restrictions, except for certain professions like professional sports.
How long can dependents stay in the UK?
Dependent visas are valid for the same length as the Skilled Worker Visa. You can renew the dependent visa as long as the main visa holder maintains their visa status.
Can Skilled Worker dependents apply for ILR?
Yes, dependents can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of residence in the UK, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.
Conclusion: Navigating the Skilled Worker Dependent Visa Process
The Skilled Worker Dependent Visa is an excellent opportunity for family members of Skilled Worker Visa holders to join them in the UK and enjoy the benefits of living, working, and studying in the country. By following the correct application process, gathering the necessary documents, and meeting financial and relationship requirements, you can successfully apply for and maintain your dependent visa. With the potential to progress to Indefinite Leave to Remain and eventually British citizenship, the Skilled Worker Dependent Visa offers a pathway to long-term settlement in the UK.