A Child Dependant Visa allows children of eligible UK visa holders or British citizens to join their parents and live in the UK. The child must meet certain requirements regarding age, relationship, and financial support to qualify. This guide covers everything you need to know about the UK Child Dependant Visa requirements, including eligibility, documentation, and application steps.
1. What is the UK Child Dependant Visa?
The Child Dependant Visa allows children under 18 to join or remain with a parent in the UK who holds a qualifying visa or who is a British citizen or settled person. This visa applies to children of individuals on Skilled Worker, Student, or Family Visas, among others.
Key Benefits of the Child Dependant Visa:
- Live in the UK: Children can live with their parents in the UK.
- Access to Education: Allows access to state-funded education.
- Path to Settlement: May lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if the parent qualifies.
2. Eligibility Requirements for the UK Child Dependant Visa
To qualify for the Child Dependant Visa, the child must meet specific criteria related to age, relationship to the parent, and financial support.
Age Requirement
- Under 18 Years Old: The child must be under 18 at the time of application.
- Unmarried and Not in a Civil Partnership: Children over 18 may still be eligible if they are already in the UK as dependants and remain dependent on their parents.
Relationship to Parent
- Direct Biological Child, Adopted Child, or Stepchild: The child must be a biological, adopted, or stepchild of the visa-holding or settled parent.
- Both Parents Requirement: Ideally, both parents should be in the UK or applying together unless specific circumstances (such as separation, death, or sole custody) apply.
Financial Requirement
- Financial Support: The parent must demonstrate sufficient income to support the child without relying on public funds.
3. Visa Categories Eligible for Child Dependants
The Child Dependant Visa is available for dependants of individuals in the UK on certain visas. Eligible visa categories include:
- Skilled Worker Visa holders
- Student Visa holders
- Start-up and Innovator Visa holders
- British citizens or individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Global Talent Visa holders
- Ancestry Visa holders
It’s essential to check whether the main visa allows dependants before applying.
4. Financial Requirements for the Child Dependant Visa
To bring a child to the UK as a dependant, the parent must meet the financial requirement, which varies depending on the visa type and the number of dependants.
Financial Requirement Overview:
- Skilled Worker Visa: £285 per month for the first dependant child, £315 for the second, and £200 for each additional child.
- Student Visa: Required funds depend on location, with higher amounts needed for families living in London.
The parent must provide bank statements or other financial evidence showing sufficient funds to cover living expenses for at least 28 consecutive days before the application.
5. Required Documents for the UK Child Dependant Visa Application
When applying for the Child Dependant Visa, specific documents are necessary to prove eligibility, financial support, and relationship to the parent.
Essential Documents:
- Valid Passport: The child’s passport.
- Birth Certificate: Showing the child’s relationship to the parent.
- Parent’s UK Visa: Copy of the parent’s valid visa or proof of British citizenship/ILR.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, payslips, or employment letters showing income or savings.
- Custody Documents: If only one parent is applying, proof of custody or consent from the other parent may be required.
Having all documents organized and verified ensures a smoother application process.
6. Step-by-Step Application Process for the Child Dependant Visa
Applying for the Child Dependant Visa involves several steps, typically done online.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Complete the Online Application: Go to the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website to start the application.
- Pay the Application Fee and IHS: Fees vary based on the parent’s visa type and whether the application is inside or outside the UK.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Upload or present all required documents.
- Book a Biometric Appointment: The child will need to attend an appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
- Await a Decision: Processing time is generally 8 weeks if applied from within the UK or 3 weeks if applied from outside.
Once approved, the child will receive a visa valid for the same duration as the parent’s visa.
7. Application Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The cost of applying for a Child Dependant Visa varies depending on the visa type and whether the application is made from inside or outside the UK.
Application Fees:
- Outside the UK: £363 per dependant.
- Inside the UK (for extensions or switching): £490 per dependant.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
The IHS is a mandatory fee for dependants to access the NHS, calculated at £624 per year. The total IHS depends on the length of the parent’s visa and is paid when applying.
8. Length of Stay and Extension for the Child Dependant Visa
The Child Dependant Visa is generally granted for the same duration as the parent’s visa. If the parent’s visa is extended, the child’s visa must also be extended to maintain legal residency.
Key Points:
- Duration: Matches the parent’s visa duration.
- Extensions: Apply for an extension before the visa expires if the parent’s visa is renewed.
- Path to Settlement: Dependant children can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if the parent qualifies.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bring my child to the UK if I’m on a temporary visa?
Yes, many temporary visa types, including Skilled Worker and Student Visas, allow dependants. Check specific requirements for your visa category.
2. What if only one parent is in the UK?
If only one parent is in the UK, you may need to show sole custody or written consent from the other parent for the child’s move to the UK.
3. How long does the Child Dependant Visa take to process?
Processing usually takes 8 weeks within the UK and 3 weeks from outside the UK, but this may vary.
4. Can my child attend school in the UK on a Dependant Visa?
Yes, children on Dependant Visas can attend state-funded schools in the UK.
5. Is my child eligible for ILR if I have ILR?
Yes, if the parent has ILR, the child can apply for ILR, provided they meet residency requirements.
6. Do I need to reapply for my child’s visa if I extend mine?
Yes, your child’s visa must be extended alongside yours to maintain their legal status in the UK.