1. What is the Tier 2 Dependent Visa Extension?
A Tier 2 Dependent Visa Extension allows dependents (spouse, partner, and children) of a Skilled Worker Visa holder (formerly known as Tier 2) to extend their stay in the UK. This extension lets dependents continue living, studying, and working in the UK alongside their sponsor, with the opportunity to stay indefinitely if eligible.
2. Eligibility for Tier 2 Dependent Visa Extension
To be eligible for a Tier 2 Dependent Visa extension, applicants must meet these requirements:
- Relationship Requirement: You must be the spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or child (under 18) of a current Skilled Worker Visa holder.
- Continued Sponsorship: The main visa holder must still be employed under the Skilled Worker Visa with a valid sponsorship.
- Continuous Residence: You must be living with the main visa holder in the UK and intend to continue doing so.
- Financial Requirement: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself without accessing public funds, typically £285 for a spouse or partner, £315 for the first child, and £200 for each additional child.
3. Required Documents for the Tier 2 Dependent Visa Extension
To extend a Tier 2 Dependent Visa, gather the following documents:
- Valid Passport: For each dependent applying for an extension.
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): The dependent’s current BRP if applicable.
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage or civil partnership certificate for spouses or civil partners, birth certificate for children.
- Financial Evidence: Bank statements, pay slips, or a letter from the main visa holder’s employer confirming financial support.
- Proof of Cohabitation: Utility bills, tenancy agreements, or council tax statements showing shared address with the main visa holder for at least two years (required for unmarried partners).
Ensure that all documents are translated into English if needed and meet the Home Office’s requirements for verification.
4. Application Process for Tier 2 Dependent Visa Extension
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a Tier 2 Dependent Visa extension:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Begin the application process on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Each dependent needs to submit a separate application.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
- Application Fee: £704 per applicant.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year, paid upfront for the extension period.
Step 3: Book a Biometric Appointment
Schedule a biometrics appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center. This is required for fingerprints, a photo, and to verify documents.
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
Upload or submit your supporting documents online or in person at the UKVCAS center, depending on instructions from UKVI.
Step 5: Await a Decision
The standard processing time is up to 8 weeks. Priority and super-priority services may be available for faster processing.
5. Duration and Cost of the Tier 2 Dependent Visa Extension
The duration of the extension matches the main Skilled Worker’s visa. If the main visa holder has less than 5 years left on their visa, the extension will align with that timeframe. Otherwise, dependents can apply for an extension up to 5 years at a time.
Extension Fees:
- Application Fee: £704 per dependent.
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year for each dependent.
It’s important to budget for these fees as they apply to each family member individually.
6. Working, Studying, and Living in the UK on a Tier 2 Dependent Visa
A Tier 2 Dependent Visa grants a range of rights in the UK:
- Employment: Dependents can work full-time in most jobs without restrictions (except in certain professions like doctors and dentists in training).
- Education: Dependents can study at schools or universities.
- Healthcare Access: The IHS grants access to the NHS for healthcare services during their stay.
This visa gives dependents the flexibility to work, study, and access services like UK citizens.
7. Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for Tier 2 Dependents
After 5 continuous years on a Tier 2 Dependent Visa, dependents may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if the main visa holder has obtained ILR. Requirements for ILR include:
- Continuous Residence: Must have spent 5 years in the UK on a dependent visa.
- Absence Limit: Absences from the UK should not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period.
- English Language Requirement: Dependents aged 18-64 must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically through a B1 level test or proof of prior English education.
ILR provides long-term residency rights, making it the pathway to British citizenship after an additional year of residence.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can Tier 2 dependents work in the UK?
A: Yes, Tier 2 dependents can work full-time in most jobs without restrictions.
Q2: Can I extend my Tier 2 Dependent Visa from outside the UK?
A: No, dependents must apply for the extension from within the UK.
Q3: How long does it take to process a Tier 2 Dependent Visa extension?
A: Standard processing times are up to 8 weeks, with faster options available at an extra fee.
Q4: What happens if my Tier 2 Dependent Visa expires before extension approval?
A: If you apply before your visa expires, you can remain in the UK under the Section 3C leave, which extends your visa until a decision is made.
Q5: Is there a limit to how many times I can extend my Tier 2 Dependent Visa?
A: No, dependents can extend their visa as long as the main visa holder’s status is valid and they continue to meet the requirements.
Q6: Can my child stay as a Tier 2 dependent after turning 18?
A: Yes, children can continue as dependents if they are still financially dependent and unmarried.