Meta Description: Discover the requirements and application process for an ILR Dependent Visa in the UK, including eligibility, fees, and timeline for dependents of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) holders.
1. What is an ILR Dependent Visa?
An ILR Dependent Visa allows family members (spouse, partner, and children) of individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK to join them or remain in the UK. Dependents can live, study, and work in the UK with this visa, and they may eventually qualify for ILR or British citizenship.
2. Who is Eligible for an ILR Dependent Visa?
Eligible dependents of ILR holders include:
- Spouse or Civil Partner: The ILR holder’s spouse or legally recognized partner.
- Unmarried Partner: The ILR holder’s long-term partner (must have lived together for at least two years).
- Children Under 18: The ILR holder’s biological or legally adopted children under 18.
Dependents must be able to show a genuine relationship with the ILR holder, meet residency requirements, and provide adequate financial support documentation.
3. Key Requirements for ILR Dependent Visa
To qualify for an ILR Dependent Visa, the applicant must meet several criteria:
- Relationship Proof: Documentation proving the relationship with the ILR holder (marriage certificate, proof of cohabitation for partners, or birth certificate for children).
- Financial Requirements: The ILR holder must meet minimum income thresholds to support their dependents:
- £18,600 for a spouse or partner.
- Additional £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.
- Accommodation: Proof of suitable housing for the dependent family members.
- English Language Requirement: Spouses and partners must demonstrate English proficiency (usually through IELTS or equivalent) unless they’re from an English-speaking country or meet exemption criteria.
Meeting these requirements helps ensure a smooth application process.
4. Application Process for ILR Dependent Visa
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for an ILR Dependent Visa:
- Gather Documentation: Collect proof of relationship, financial stability, accommodation, and other requirements.
- Submit the Online Application: Complete the application on the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) website and pay the visa fees.
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): This surcharge grants dependents access to the National Health Service (NHS) while in the UK.
- Book a Biometrics Appointment: Attend a visa application center to provide fingerprints, photos, and other biometric information.
- Await Decision: Processing times typically take 8 to 12 weeks, though priority processing is available for an additional fee.
5. Required Documents for ILR Dependent Visa
To improve the chances of approval, applicants should provide:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage or civil partnership certificate, evidence of shared address for partners, birth certificates for children.
- Financial Documents: Payslips, bank statements, and employment letters to demonstrate sufficient income.
- Proof of Accommodation: Documentation showing suitable living arrangements in the UK.
- English Language Test Results: For spouses and partners.
- Passport and Biometric Information: Valid passport and biometrics for each applicant.
Accurate documentation helps avoid delays and processing issues.
6. ILR Dependent Visa Fees and Costs
The ILR Dependent Visa costs vary based on processing speed:
- Standard Application Fee: £1,538 for each dependent.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year for each dependent.
- Priority Processing (Optional): Additional £500 for faster processing within 5 working days.
It’s essential to budget for these fees to cover all dependents.
7. ILR Dependent Visa Processing Time
The typical processing time for an ILR Dependent Visa is:
- Standard Processing: 8 to 12 weeks.
- Priority Processing: 5 working days for an additional fee.
Starting the application early can help avoid processing delays, especially during peak periods.
8. Pathway to ILR for Dependents
Dependents on an ILR Dependent Visa can eventually apply for ILR themselves if they meet the following criteria:
- Residency Requirement: Dependents must reside in the UK with the ILR holder for at least 5 years.
- Continuous Residence: Dependents should not exceed the allowable time spent outside the UK.
- English Language and Life in the UK Test: Required for spouses and partners when applying for ILR.
After obtaining ILR, dependents may be eligible to apply for British citizenship if they meet the additional criteria.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I work in the UK on an ILR Dependent Visa?
A: Yes, ILR dependents can work and study in the UK without restrictions.
Q2: How long does it take to process an ILR Dependent Visa?
A: Standard processing takes 8 to 12 weeks, though priority processing is available for an additional fee.
Q3: Can my dependent child over 18 apply for an ILR Dependent Visa?
A: Generally, only children under 18 are eligible, but exceptions may apply in specific situations.
Q4: Do ILR dependents have to meet English language requirements?
A: Yes, spouses and partners must meet English language requirements unless exempt.
Q5: Can ILR dependents access healthcare in the UK?
A: Yes, by paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), dependents can access the NHS.
Q6: What happens if my relationship with the ILR holder ends?
A: In most cases, the dependent must leave the UK unless they qualify for a different visa.
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