If you’re in the UK and eligible for a visa, your partner and children can join or stay with you as ‘dependants‘ by applying for a Tier 2 Dependent Visa, each requiring separate applications. Their visa duration usually aligns with yours, and for children with parents holding visas of differing expiry dates, the child’s visa will end earlier.
Eligibility Criteria
Tier 2 Dependant Visa is suitable for:
- Your spouse
- Civil partner
- Unmarried partner
- Children under 18 (including those born in the UK during your stay)
- Children over 18 currently in the UK as your dependant
To prove eligibility, evidence of relationships is required.
Partner Eligibility
You must demonstrate either:
- A recognized civil partnership/marriage
- Two years of cohabitation to establish your partner’s eligibility
Child Eligibility (16 or Over)
Children over 16 must:
- Reside with you (except if in full-time education at a boarding school, college, or university)
- Not be married, in a civil partnership, or have children
- Be financially supported by you
Evidence of address (e.g., bank statements, official letters) is needed if residing with you.
Financial Requirements
Partners and children must possess a certain amount of money for support while in the UK:
- £285 for your partner
- £315 for one child
- £200 for each additional child
These funds must be available for 28 consecutive days within 31 days before you apply for the Tier 2 Dependent Visa. Exemptions apply if you’ve all held a valid visa for at least 12 months or if your employer covers initial costs.
Proving Identity
Identity can be established through:
- Biometric data
- The ‘UK Immigration: ID Check‘ app, ensuring their identity document is scanned
Decision Timeframe
Upon online application, identity verification, and document submission, a decision typically arrives within 3 weeks. Expedited options may be available.
Application from Within the UK
Partners and children extending or switching their visa can do so:
- Simultaneously with your application
- Before their visa expires
Remember, thorough understanding and professional assistance are crucial for navigating the intricate visa process. Here at MSRS, we have years of industry knowledge with regards to the process for applying for your Dependant Visa and we would be able to provide you with a bespoke service to cater to your needs. If you are looking for support from immigration solicitors, please contact us.
