Work & study dependant visas

A clear starting point

Check whether your family can accompany you, and which rules apply to each person. This page sets out the questions to consider before choosing an application and paying any charges.

Partners and children of people holding an eligible work or study permission. The correct approach depends on the exact permission, application location and immigration history involved. A similar-looking case may be subject to a different rule or transitional arrangement.

Who is this for?

Partners and children of people holding an eligible work or study permission.

General eligibility and requirements

Dependant eligibility is route-specific. Some occupations, courses, dates of permission and family relationships are subject to restrictions. Do not assume every main applicant can bring dependants.

Check the current official guidance for the intended submission date. If you have a previous refusal, an approaching expiry date or a change in circumstances, include that in your initial enquiry. These details may affect what is possible and how urgently you need advice.

Supporting documents

A useful evidence file addresses the specific requirements, with clear dates and consistent personal details. Depending on your circumstances, the following may be relevant:

• Main applicant’s visa and sponsorship details
• relationship and birth records
• maintenance evidence where required
• consent and care arrangements for children

This is a preparation list, not an exhaustive submission checklist. Check required formats, relevant evidence periods and translation requirements. Keep an exact copy of the final application and evidence. See our document preparation guide for a practical way to organise your records.

The application process

1. Identify the main applicant’s exact visa category, occupation or course, permission dates and application history. Check the current dependant restrictions before preparing family applications.
2. Assess each partner or child separately, including relationship, dependency, consent and maintenance requirements. Record how their permission relates to the main applicant’s.
3. Coordinate application dates and evidence without assuming everyone must apply simultaneously. After decisions, review each person’s conditions and later extension or settlement timetable.

For appeals, protection and employer compliance matters, the relevant procedure may be a review, tribunal process or ongoing duty rather than a visa application. The official source below identifies the appropriate starting point.

Government fees & processing times

Professional fees are separate from government charges. Ask for a written quote confirming scope, any VAT, exclusions and additional costs. Our fees information explains what to clarify. Paying for a faster service does not guarantee approval or a decision by a particular date.

Common issues to consider

Applying family-visa rules to a dependant application, missing route restrictions and assuming a later dependant visa gives the same settlement timeline.

Where a record is missing or inconsistent, explain the issue honestly and establish which evidence can address it. Do not amend a document to make it appear to meet a requirement. For help preparing for a discussion, read our consultation preparation guide.

Frequently asked questions