UK Skilled Worker Visa And Dependent Visas:
The UK Skilled Worker visa is an essential pathway for skilled professionals from outside the UK to live and work in the country. For many applicants, bringing family members along is a critical part of the relocation process. The UK immigration system allows those on a Skilled Worker visa to bring their dependents to the UK, ensuring that families can stay together while individuals pursue their careers. This comprehensive guide covers the details of the UK Skilled Worker visa and dependent visas, including eligibility, application processes, and benefits.
The UK Skilled Worker visa is designed for non-UK nationals to work in specific roles that meet the UK’s skill and salary requirements. This visa is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system and is available to skilled workers in various sectors, including healthcare, engineering, and IT. To get a detailed eBook on the UK skilled visa and dependent visas click here
Dependent Visas For The Skilled Worker Visa
Dependents of Skilled Worker visa holders can apply for a dependent visa to join them in the UK. The dependent visa allows family members to live, work, and study in the UK, providing essential support and stability for the visa holder. To get a detailed eBook on the UK skilled visa and dependent visas click here
Eligibility For Dependent Visas
Family members who can apply for a dependent visa include:
Spouse or Partner: The spouse or partner of the Skilled Worker visa holder. This includes both married couples and unmarried partners who are in a long-term relationship.
Children: Dependent children under the age of 18. In some cases, children over 18 may also be eligible if they are already in the UK as dependents and continue to be financially dependent on the visa holder.
To get a detailed eBook on the UK skilled visa and dependent visas click here
To Qualify As A Dependent, The Family Members Must Meet The Following Criteria:
Proof of Relationship: Provide evidence of the relationship to the Skilled Worker visa holder. This includes marriage certificates, civil partnership certificates, or proof of a long-term relationship for partners.
Financial Requirements: Demonstrate that the main visa holder can support their dependents financially without relying on public funds. This is usually shown through a declaration of support or bank statements.
Application Process For Dependent Visas
Eligibility Check: Confirm that the family members meet the eligibility criteria for dependent visas, including relationship proof and financial requirements.
Prepare Documentation: Gather the necessary documents, including proof of relationship, passport copies, and evidence of financial support. Each dependent must also provide biometric information as part of their application.
Submit the Application: Apply for a dependent visa online through the UK government’s official website. The application requires details about the main visa holder’s Skilled Worker visa and personal information about the dependents.
Pay the Visa Fee: Each dependent visa application incurs a fee. As of 2024, the fee is typically:
£708 per person for applications made outside the UK.
£1,408 per person for applications made within the UK.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Dependent visa holders must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £624 per year for each dependent. This fee provides access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
Attend Biometrics Appointment: Dependents will need to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, at a local visa application center.
Visa Decision: Wait for the decision on the dependent visa application. Processing times can vary, but most decisions are made within a few weeks.
Travel to the UK: Once the dependent visa is approved, family members can travel to the UK and join the Skilled Worker visa holder. To get a detailed eBook on the UK skilled visa and dependent visas click here
Benefits Of Dependent Visas
Dependent visas offer several advantages for families of Skilled Worker visa holders:
Family Unity: Allows families to stay together while the primary visa holder works in the UK.
Work and Study Rights: Dependents have the right to work or study in the UK without restrictions. This provides opportunities for spouses to seek employment or education while living in the UK.
Healthcare Access Dependents have access to the NHS through the Immigration Health Surcharge, ensuring they receive healthcare services.
Pathway to Settlement: Dependents of Skilled Worker visa holders can also apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years of continuous residence, aligning with the main visa holder’s path to settlement.
Financial Considerations for Dependents
To ensure a smooth application process, it is important to consider the financial implications of bringing dependents to the UK:
Visa Fees: Each dependent visa application incurs a fee, which can add up if multiple family members are applying.
Immigration Health Surcharge: The IHS fee for each dependent is an additional cost to budget for.
Living Expenses: Consider the cost of living in the UK, including accommodation, utilities, and other daily expenses. Adequate financial planning is essential to support the family’s needs.
To get a detailed eBook on the UK skilled visa and dependent visas click here
Key Points For Employers
Employers who sponsor Skilled Worker visa holders should be aware of the following:
Support for Employees: Providing guidance and support for employees regarding the dependent visa process can help in retaining skilled workers and ensuring their families are settled comfortably.
Compliance and Record-Keeping: Employers must maintain accurate records of their sponsorship activities and ensure compliance with UK immigration regulations.
The UK Skilled Worker visa provides an important route for skilled professionals to work in the UK, and the associated dependent visas enable family members to join them. By meeting eligibility requirements, submitting accurate applications, and understanding the financial implications, families can successfully navigate the visa process and enjoy life together in the UK. The ability to work and study while accessing healthcare services makes the dependent visa a valuable component of the UK’s immigration system, supporting skilled workers in their professional and personal lives.
