Dependents of Points-Based Visa Holders

The Dependents of Points-Based Visa Holders category allows family members of individuals holding a Points-Based visa to join them in the UK. This visa is designed to allow partners and children of skilled workers, students, or other qualified visa holders to live, work, and study in the UK while the primary visa holder is in the country.

This route provides a way for family members to join their loved ones in the UK and support them during their stay.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Dependent Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Relationship to the Primary Visa Holder: You must be the partner, child, or in some cases, a dependent relative of the main visa holder.
  • Partner: You must be married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term relationship with the primary visa holder.
  • Children: Children under 18 years old can be included as dependents.
  • Other Dependent Relatives: In certain circumstances, elderly parents or other dependent relatives may qualify.
• Visa Status of the Primary Visa Holder: The primary visa holder must be in the UK on a valid Points-Based visa such as a Skilled Worker visa, Student visa, Global Talent visa, or another eligible category.
• Financial Requirement: You must demonstrate that you can support yourself and your dependents during your stay in the UK. The financial requirements will vary depending on the type of visa the primary visa holder holds.
• Sufficient Funds: In most cases, the primary visa holder will need to show proof of sufficient funds to support their dependents.

Duration of Stay

The duration of the Dependent Visa is tied to the duration of the primary visa holder’s stay:

• Duration of the Primary Visa: Your visa will generally be granted for the same length of time as the primary visa holder’s visa.
• Extension and ILR: If the primary visa holder is eligible for an extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), you may also be able to extend your stay or apply for ILR, provided you meet the necessary requirements.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a Dependent Visa either before you arrive in the UK or while you are already in the country. The application process typically includes:

• Proving your relationship to the primary visa holder (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
• Showing that you meet the financial requirements.
• Submitting a completed application form and paying the application fee.
• Attending a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph.

Decision Timeframe

• 8 weeks is the usual processing time for Dependent Visa applications, though this can vary based on individual circumstances.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Live in the UK with your family member on a Points-Based visa.
• Work in most cases, though there may be some restrictions depending on the primary visa holder’s status.
• Study in the UK.
• Travel freely within the UK and abroad.

What You Cannot Do:

• Access public funds (benefits).
• Apply for a visa extension or switch to another visa category if you are no longer dependent on the primary visa holder.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Dependent Visa application process seamless and stress-free!