Family Visas (Dependent Visas) – A Complete Guide to Joining Family in the UK (2025–2026)

The UK Family Visa, commonly referred to as the Dependent Visa, allows non-UK nationals to join their family members who are living legally in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re a spouse, civil partner, child, or parent of someone who is a British citizen, settled in the UK, or on a valid visa (such as Skilled Worker or Student), the Family Visa route offers a legal pathway to reunite and build a life together in the UK. This guide provides detailed insights into eligibility, application process, required documents, fees, and rights of dependents for 2025–2026.

What is a Family Visa (Dependent Visa)?

A Family Visa (Dependent Visa) enables close family members to join or stay with their loved ones in the UK for extended periods—often leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and ultimately British citizenship. The visa category you apply under depends on your relationship with the sponsoring family member and their immigration status in the UK.

Benefits of Family Visas (Dependent Visas)

1. Legal Residency in the UK
Dependent family members can lawfully live in the UK with their sponsoring relative, ensuring stability and compliance with immigration regulations.

2. Family Unity and Togetherness
This visa allows families to remain together, promoting emotional support and reducing the strain of long-distance separation.

3. Access to Public Healthcare (NHS)
Dependents are entitled to use the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) once the Immigration Health Surcharge is paid, ensuring access to quality medical care.

4. Right to Work (for Adult Dependents)
Spouses and adult dependents of work visa holders or settled persons can take up full-time employment or start their own business in the UK without additional permissions.

5. Free Education for Children
Dependent children can enroll in UK public schools for free, benefiting from a world-class education system.

6. No Need for Separate Sponsorship
Dependents are tied to the main visa holder’s status, which simplifies the sponsorship and renewal process compared to applying independently.

7. Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After 5 years of continuous residence, dependents may become eligible to apply for permanent residency (ILR), followed by British citizenship.

8. Eligible for Extension and Switching
Family Visas can be extended, and in some cases, switched to other visa categories (e.g., Skilled Worker or ILR routes), offering long-term flexibility.

9. Work and Study Freedom
Dependent visa holders (except fiancé(e)s) can work in any sector, study at UK institutions, and fully participate in social and economic life.

10. Protection Under UK Law
Dependent visa holders are entitled to the same employment rights, protections, and access to legal services as other residents in the UK.

Who Can Apply as a Dependent?

You may be eligible to apply as a dependent in the UK if you are:

• The spouse or civil partner of a British citizen or settled person
• The unmarried partner of a person with permanent residence or valid visa
• A dependent child (under 18) of someone with a valid visa or British nationality
• A parent of a British child, if you are the sole carer or have shared responsibility
• A dependent of a Skilled Worker, Student, or other Tier visa holder
• A family member of someone with refugee or humanitarian protection

Types of Family Visas

1. Spouse or Partner Visa
2. Fiancé(e) Visa
3. Parent of a British Child
4. Child Dependent Visa
5. Dependents of Skilled Workers or Students
6. Adult Dependent Relative Visa (elderly parents with high dependency)

Eligibility Criteria

• Genuine and subsisting relationship with the sponsoring family member
• Intent to live together in the UK permanently
• Minimum income requirement (usually £18,600 per year for a partner + more for children)
• Proof of suitable accommodation in the UK
• English language proficiency (for adults applying as a partner/spouse)
• No immigration violations or criminal history
• For Skilled Worker dependents: main visa holder must hold valid leave

Documents Required

• Valid passport
• Birth/marriage certificates proving relationship
• Proof of accommodation in the UK
• Bank statements or payslips (to meet financial requirement)
• English language test results (A1/A2/B1 depending on route)
• Sponsoring family member’s BRP, passport, or visa
• Letters of support or cohabitation evidence (e.g., tenancy agreements, bills)

Visa Duration and Extensions

• Initial visas are typically valid for 2.5 years (30 months)
• You can apply for an extension to stay a total of 5 years
• After 5 years, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Can Dependents Work and Study in the UK?

Yes. Most family visa holders (except for fiancé(e)s) can:

• Work full-time in any field
• Study at UK schools, colleges, or universities
• Access public healthcare via the NHS (after paying the IHS)

Pathway to ILR and British Citizenship

• After 5 continuous years on a Family Visa, you may apply for ILR
• Once you hold ILR for 12 months, you may apply for British citizenship

Common Reasons for Refusal

• Inadequate proof of relationship
• Failing to meet the financial requirement
• Missing documents or incorrect application
• Previous immigration offences or overstaying
• English language requirement not met

Why Choose Brightlink for Family Visa Support?

• Expert visa application guidance for UK spouse, child, and dependent visas
• Personalized document checklists
• Financial requirement assessments
• Biometric & visa filing assistance
• Extension and ILR transition support
• High approval rate and fast-track processing options

Reunite with Your Family in the UK

Contact Brightlink today for expert guidance and start your UK Family Visa application with confidence.