United Kingdom Dependent Visa (Skilled Worker)

Dependents of Skilled Worker visa holders can apply to join or stay with them in the UK. This visa allows spouses/partners and children to live, work, and study in the UK during the main applicant's visa period.

✅Who Can Apply as a Dependent?

The following people are eligible:

• Spouse or civil partner
• Unmarried partner (must prove you've lived together for at least 2 years)
• Children under 18
• Children over 18 already in the UK as dependents

✅Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Check Eligibility

You must be a dependent of someone who holds a valid Skilled Worker Visa and:

• Intend to live with them in the UK
• Have sufficient financial support
• Have a genuine relationship

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

For all dependents:

• Valid passport

• Proof of relationship:

  • Marriage/civil partnership certificate (spouse)

  • Birth certificate (children)

  • Cohabitation proof for unmarried partners

• Financial requirement:

  • £285 (spouse/partner)

  • £315 (first child)

  • £200 (each additional child)
    (Funds must be in your or the main applicant's bank account for 28 days unless sponsored by an A-rated employer.)

Additional (if applicable):

• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (required in many countries)

• Previous UK visas (if any)

Step 3: Apply Online

• Visit: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/your-partner-and-children

• Fill in the application under “Skilled Worker Dependant Visa”

• Pay the application fee:

  • £822 (outside UK) / £1,500 (inside UK – standard service)

• Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):

  • £1,035 per year per person

Step 4: Book Biometrics Appointment

• Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC)

• Provide fingerprints and photograph

Step 5: Wait for Decision

• Standard processing time: 3 weeks (outside UK)

  • Faster options available in some countries (Priority/Super Priority)

Step 6: Travel and Live in the UK

• Once approved:

  • You will receive a visa vignette to travel

✅Important Notes

• Dependent visa holders can:

  • Work (except as a professional sportsperson/coach)

  • Study in the UK

  • Access NHS healthcare (after IHS payment)

• Dependents’ visas are valid for the same duration as the Skilled Worker visa holder.

• Children over 18 can apply only if already in the UK as dependents.