What is a Dependant Child Visa

A dependent child visa, also known as a UK dependent visa, is a type of visa that allows dependent children to join their family members who are already in the UK. It is commonly associated with family members of individuals who hold a valid visa in the UK, such as a student visa, spouse visa, skilled worker visa, or other visa categories.

To apply for a dependent child visa, the main applicant (e.g., parent, spouse) must meet the immigration rules and have the necessary visa status in the UK. The dependent child visa application is usually submitted online through the UK Visas and Immigration website or at a visa application center.

The dependent child visa application requires supporting documents such as birth certificates, marriage or civil partnership certificates, and official documents proving the relationship between the child and the main applicant. The applicant may also need to demonstrate that they have sole responsibility for the child or that the child is part of a genuine and subsisting relationship.

Financial requirements may apply, requiring the main applicant to show that they can financially support their dependent child without relying on public funds. This typically involves providing bank account statements or evidence of employment.

If the dependent child visa application is successful, the child will be granted permission to stay in the UK for the duration of the main applicant’s visa. Dependent children can access education and healthcare services during their stay. In some cases, the main applicant may be required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge to cover healthcare costs.

Dependent child visa holders may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after residing in the UK for a specific period. ILR grants individuals the right to live and work in the UK without any immigration restrictions. It is important to note that dependent child visa holders should always maintain valid visa status and comply with the UK immigration rules.

Please note that immigration policies and procedures can change over time, so it’s essential to consult the official UK government sources, such as the UK Visas and Immigration website, for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding dependent child visas.

Who can Apply for Dependant Visa

Family members of certain visa holders in the UK can apply for a dependent visa, also known as a UK dependent visa. The eligibility criteria for a dependent visa may vary depending on the visa category of the main applicant. Here are some key points regarding who can apply for a dependent visa:

1. Dependent family members, such as a spouse or children, of a student visa holder can apply for a dependent visa. They must meet the requirements set by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and provide supporting documents to prove their relationship with the main applicant.
2. Dependent partners or spouses of individuals holding a UK spouse visa can apply for a dependent visa. They need to demonstrate that they are in a genuine and subsisting relationship with the main applicant and meet the financial requirements.
3. Dependent family members, including spouses and children, of a skilled worker visa holder may be eligible for a dependent visa. They must meet the requirements specified by the UKVI and provide the necessary supporting documents.
4. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British Citizenship: If the main applicant has been granted indefinite leave to remain or British citizenship, their dependent family members can also apply for a dependent visa. The specific criteria and requirements for such cases can be obtained from the UKVI.

It’s important to note that each dependent visa application is assessed individually, and the main applicant must have valid immigration status in the UK. The dependent visa application process typically involves submitting the correct application form, providing supporting documents, paying the relevant fees, and meeting the financial requirements. The visa application can be made online through the UK Visas and Immigration website or at a visa application center.

To obtain accurate and up-to-date information about the eligibility criteria for a dependent visa and the specific requirements for each visa category, it is recommended to refer to the official UK government sources, such as the UK Visas and Immigration website.

UK Dependant Visa Requirements

The UK dependant visa requirements are the criteria that you must meet in order to be eligible to apply for a dependant visa to the UK. The dependant visa is a type of visa that allows the family members of certain UK visa holders to live in the UK with them.

The dependant visa requirements vary depending on the type of UK visa that your sponsor holds. However, there are some general requirements that all dependant visa applicants must meet. These requirements include:

• You must be the spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner of a UK visa holder.
• You must be under the age of 18, or over the age of 18 and be dependent on your sponsor.
• You must meet the financial requirements for a dependant visa.
• You must pass a criminal record check.
• You must meet the English language requirements for a dependant visa.

The financial requirements for a dependant visa vary depending on the length of your visa and your age. However, in general, you must have enough money to support yourself and your family without relying on public funds.

The criminal record check is a check that is conducted to ensure that you do not have any criminal convictions. You can apply for a criminal record check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Financial Requirements for UK Dependant Visa

The presence of financial requirements for a Dependant visa UK depends on the specific visa category held by the primary visa holder. For instance, when applying for a Skilled Worker Dependant visa UK, it is necessary to demonstrate that either the main visa holder or the applicant possesses the following amounts:

• £285 for a partner
• £315 for one child and an additional £200 for each subsequent child

In most situations, if both the main visa holder and the dependant have been residing in the UK for a minimum of 12 months, there is no financial requirement to fulfill.

Required Documents for UK Child Dependant Visa

When applying for a UK Child Dependant Visa, the following documents are typically required:

1. Valid Passport: The child’s current passport, which should be valid for the intended duration of their stay in the UK.
2. Visa Application Form: The completed and signed application form for the UK Child Dependant Visa.
3. Relationship Documents: Documents proving the child’s relationship with the main visa holder, such as birth certificates, adoption papers, or legal guardianship documents.
4. Parental Consent: If one parent is not accompanying the child, a letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent granting permission for the child to reside in the UK.
5. Financial Documents: Evidence showing that the main visa holder or the child has sufficient funds to support the child during their stay in the UK. This may include bank statements, employment letters, or any other relevant financial documentation.
6. Accommodation Documents: Proof of suitable accommodation for the child in the UK, such as tenancy agreements or property ownership documents.
7. English Language Proficiency: Depending on the child’s age and the circumstances, proof of English language proficiency may be required. This can be demonstrated through recognized language test results or evidence of previous education in English.
8. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate: In some cases, applicants from certain countries may need to provide a valid TB test certificate from an approved clinic.
9. Parental Consent for Medical Treatment: A letter of consent from the parent or legal guardian allowing the child to receive any necessary medical treatment in the UK.
10. Sponsor’s Documents: Documents related to the main visa holder, such as their visa, passport, proof of residence, and financial capacity to support the child.

It’s important to note that additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances. It is recommended to consult the official UK government website or seek professional advice for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the specific requirements for a UK Child Dependant Visa application.

How to Apply for a UK Child Dependant Visa

To apply for a UK child dependant visa, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility. You must meet the following requirements to apply for a UK child dependant visa:
   • You must be under the age of 18.
   • You must be the child of a UK visa holder.
   • You must not be married or in a civil partnership.
   • You must not have any criminal convictions.
   • You must meet the financial requirements for a dependant visa.
2. Gather your documents. You will need to provide the following documents with your application:
   • A passport or other valid travel document.
   • A completed application form.
   • A recent passport-style photograph.
   • A birth certificate.
   • Evidence of your relationship to the UK visa holder.
   • Evidence of your financial support.
   • Evidence of your English language skills.
3. Pay the application fee. The application fee for a UK child dependant visa is £369.
4. Submit your application. You can submit your application online or at a UK visa application centre.
5. Attend an interview. You may be required to attend an interview as part of your application.
6. Wait for a decision. The processing time for a UK child dependant visa application can vary, but it typically takes several weeks.

If your application is successful, you will be granted a dependant visa. The length of your visa will depend on the length of your sponsor’s visa.

For more information on how to apply for a UK child dependant visa, please visit the UK government website.

Here are some additional tips for applying for a UK child dependant visa:

• Start the application process early. It can take several weeks to process an application, so it is important to start the process early.
• Be sure to gather all of the required documents. Missing documents can delay your application.
• Check the UK government website for the latest information on application requirements. The requirements can change, so it is important to check the website before you apply.
• If you have any questions, contact the UK visa application centre. They can help you with the application process.

Child Dependant Visa Validity and Conditions

• Validity: Child Dependant visas are typically granted for the same duration as the parent or guardian’s visa. For example, if the parent or guardian has a 2-year visa, the Child Dependant visa will also be granted for 2 years.
• Conditions: Child Dependant visa holders must meet certain conditions in order to remain in the UK. These conditions include:
  • Living with their parent or guardian
  • Not being married or in a civil partnership
  • Not having any criminal convictions
  • Meeting the English language requirements

If a Child Dependant visa holder breaches any of the conditions of their visa, they may be required to leave the UK.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Child Dependant visas:

• Child Dependant visas do not allow the holder to work in the UK.
• Child Dependant visas do not allow the holder to claim public funds.
• Child Dependant visas can be extended if the parent or guardian’s visa is extended.

If you are considering applying for a Child Dependant visa, it is important to speak with an immigration lawyer to discuss your specific situation.

Conclusion

In summary, the UK Child Dependant Visa is a crucial pathway for dependent children to join their family members who hold various UK visas such as student visas, skilled worker visas, spouse visas, and more. It ensures that families can stay together and provides opportunities for children to access education, healthcare, and a stable family life in the UK. The visa application process involves meeting immigration rules, providing required documents, and fulfilling financial requirements based on personal circumstances. By following the correct application procedures and seeking professional guidance, families can navigate the process successfully. The UK government, through the UK Visas and Immigration, offers comprehensive information and resources to assist with the application. Overall, the Child Dependant Visa upholds the importance of family unity and provides a secure environment for children within the UK.