Are you moving to the UK on a Skilled Worker visa and want your family to join you? The skilled worker dependent visa is the route that allows your spouse, partner, and children to live with you in the UK.
At Primus Solicitors Manchester, we specialise in helping families reunite under this visa category. This guide explains the eligibility, application process, financial requirements, and benefits of the skilled worker dependent visa, ensuring your family can move with you without unnecessary delays or refusals.
Need help applying for the skilled worker dependent visa? Our expert immigration solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way.
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday – Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
What Is a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa?
The skilled worker dependent visa is designed for the family members of a Skilled Worker visa holder in the UK. It allows them to live, work, and study in the UK during the main applicant’s visa period.
Family members who can apply as dependants include:
Husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner.
Children under 18.
Children over 18, if already in the UK as dependants.
This visa ensures that families can stay together while the main applicant works in the UK.
Who Can Apply for a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa?
To qualify as a dependant of a Skilled Worker visa holder, you must prove your relationship with the main visa holder.
Eligible dependants:
Spouse or Civil Partner – You must be legally married or in a civil partnership recognised in the UK.
Unmarried Partner – You must show you’ve lived together in a relationship for at least 2 years.
Children under 18 – Biological children, adopted children, or stepchildren who are not married and live with you.
Children over 18 – Only if they are already in the UK as dependants.
Applicants must show they have enough money to support themselves.
As of 2025, the financial requirement is:
£285 for a partner.
£315 for the first child.
£200 for each additional child.
If the main Skilled Worker has already been in the UK for more than 12 months, dependants may not need to show these funds.
Skilled Worker Dependent Visa Application Process
Applying for the skilled worker dependent visa is a step-by-step process.
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Passport and valid travel ID.
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, tenancy agreements).
Evidence of financial support.
TB test results (if required).
Step 2: Apply Online
Application must be submitted through the official UK Government website.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
Visa application fee.
Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year).
Step 4: Biometric Appointment
Fingerprints and photo taken at a visa centre.
Step 5: Wait for Decision
Standard processing time is 3 to 8 weeks depending on where you apply.
Fees for Skilled Worker Dependent Visa
The cost of the skilled worker dependent visa depends on the length of the Skilled Worker’s visa.
Application fee: £719 to £1,500 (depending on the main applicant’s visa length).
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year.
Biometric fee: £19.20 (if applicable).
Rights of Skilled Worker Dependants in the UK
Holders of a skilled worker dependent visa enjoy many benefits, including:
Ability to work without restriction (except as a professional sportsperson).
Permission to study in the UK.
Access to the NHS through payment of the Health Surcharge.
Opportunity to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years, alongside the main Skilled Worker.
Settlement and ILR for Skilled Worker Dependants
One of the key advantages of the skilled worker dependent visa is that dependants can apply for permanent residency (ILR) after 5 continuous years in the UK.
Requirements for ILR include:
Living in the UK for 5 years.
Passing the Life in the UK Test (if over 18).
Meeting English language requirements.
Continuing relationship with the Skilled Worker visa holder.
Common Reasons for Skilled Worker Dependent Visa Refusal
Applications can be refused for several reasons, including:
Incomplete documents.
Failure to prove genuine relationship.
Insufficient financial evidence.
Submitting incorrect application forms.
To avoid refusals, it’s important to seek professional help.
How Primus Solicitors Manchester Can Help
At Primus solicitors, we specialise in UK immigration law, including skilled worker dependent visa applications. We can:
Assess your family’s eligibility.
Prepare and review all supporting documents.
Provide representation if your application is refused.
Guide you towards settlement in the UK.
Need help applying for the skilled worker dependent visa? Our expert immigration solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way.
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday – Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
FAQs on Skilled Worker Dependent Visa UK
1. Who can apply for a Skilled Worker Dependent visa?
Spouses, partners, and children of Skilled Worker visa holders.
2. Can Skilled Worker dependants work in the UK?
Yes, they can work without restrictions, except as professional sportspeople.
3. How long does the dependent visa take to process?
Normally between 3 to 8 weeks, depending on your country of application.
4. Can dependants study in the UK?
Yes, dependants can study full-time or part-time.
5. Do dependants need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?
Yes, they must pay £1,035 per year for NHS access.
6. Can dependants apply for settlement in the UK?
Yes, after 5 years they may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
7. Do I need to show financial proof for dependants?
Yes, unless the Skilled Worker has lived in the UK for more than 12 months.
8. What happens if my Skilled Worker visa expires?
Dependants must leave the UK unless the main applicant extends or switches visas.
📞 Contact Primus Solicitors Manchester
Need help applying for the skilled worker dependent visa? Our expert immigration solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way.
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday – Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
