Child Dependent Visa: Bringing Your Child to the UK
The Child Dependent Visa allows a non-UK citizen child to join their parent(s) who are living in the UK. This visa is designed for children under 18 whose parent(s) are either British citizens, settled in the UK, or on a valid visa themselves (e.g., a Skilled Worker or Spouse Visa).
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Child Dependent Visa, the following conditions must be met:
- Age Requirement: The child must be under 18 years old at the time of application.
- Dependent Status: The child must not be living an independent life (i.e., they are financially dependent on their parent(s) and live with them).
- Living Arrangements: The parent(s) must provide evidence of suitable accommodation for the child in the UK.
- Financial Requirement: If the parent holds a visa (such as a Skilled Worker Visa or Spouse Visa), they must meet a financial threshold to demonstrate they can support their child without relying on public funds. The required income increases for each dependent child.
- Parental Requirement: The parent(s) must be:
- A British citizen or have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status.
- A parent with a valid visa to live and work in the UK (e.g., Skilled Worker Visa, Spouse Visa).
Required Documents for the Application
To apply for a Child Dependent Visa, you’ll need to provide:
- Valid passport for the child.
- Proof of parent’s status in the UK (e.g., BRP, passport, or visa).
- Birth certificate showing the relationship between the parent(s) and child.
- Proof of accommodation showing the child will have a place to live in the UK.
- Financial evidence (bank statements, payslips) if the parent(s) are on a visa.
How Long Can a Child Stay on the Visa?
The Child Dependent Visa is usually granted in line with the parent’s visa. If the parent has Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship, the child can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship after a period of 5 years of continuous residence in the UK.
Can the Child Study or Work on the Visa?
Yes, a child on a Child Dependent Visa can:
- Attend school or study at educational institutions in the UK.
- Once they reach the legal working age, they can work in the UK (part-time or full-time, as applicable).
The endorsement process usually takes up to 8 weeks, depending on your field.
Visa Costs and Application Process
Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:
- Visa application fee: The fee varies depending on whether you apply from outside or within the UK.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): There is an annual charge for each child, applicable throughout your stay.
- Application Steps:
- Complete the Online Application: Submit the visa application on the gov.uk website.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents showing proof of relationship, accommodation, and financial support.
- Biometric Appointment: Book and attend an appointment to provide the child’s fingerprints and photo.
- Wait for a Decision: It usually takes around 8 to 12 weeks to receive a decision.
Conclusion
The Child Dependent Visa allows children to join their parents in the UK, providing them with the opportunity to live, study, and grow in a stable environment. With the right documents and meeting the eligibility criteria, the application process can be straightforward.
If you need help with your child’s visa application, our team is here to assist you in ensuring a smooth process.
If you need help with your child’s visa application, our team is here to assist you in ensuring a smooth process.
