UK Dependent Visa for Spouse

If you are legally married to someone who is already in the UK on a valid visa, you may be eligible to apply for a UK dependent visa as a spouse. Once a dependent visa is granted, it allows you to live, work, and study in the UK without significant restrictions.

The UK Dependent visa application process can be complex. Many applications are refused due to incomplete documents or not meeting the eligibility criteria. Understanding the eligibility, requirements, fees, and application process is vital for a smooth application.

If you are applying for a UK dependent visa as a spouse (husband or wife), please contact our immigration solicitors at 0203 417 3700 for expert guidance.

Table of Contents

What is a UK Dependent Visa for a Spouse?

The UK Dependant visa allows spouses (wife and husband) to join their partner, who holds an eligible UK visa, allowing families to live together in the UK.

While often referred to as a spouse visa or partner visa, it is technically a category of the UK dependent visa for family members.

What is the Difference Between a UK Spouse Visa and a UK Dependent Visa?

Although they sound similar, the UK Spouse visa and the UK Dependent visa apply to different situations and have different long-term outcomes.

The spouse visa is designed for the husband, wife, or civil partner of a British citizen or someone who already has settled status in the UK. This route can eventually lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and later British citizenship, making it a pathway to permanent settlement.

The dependent visa, sometimes referred to as a family visa or partner visa, is for the family members of someone who holds a temporary UK visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa or a Student visa. Unlike the spouse visa, the dependent's visa length is tied to the main applicant's visa. This means when the main visa expires, the dependent's visa usually ends at the same time.

In short, the spouse visa offers a route to settlement, while the dependent visa allows family members to stay in the UK temporarily alongside the main visa holder.

Benefits of a UK Dependent Visa for Spouses

A UK Dependent Visa for spouses comes with a range of advantages, making it easier for couples to build a life together in the UK. This visa not only allows you to join your partner but also gives you the freedom to work, study, and eventually apply for settlement.

With a UK Dependent Visa, spouses can:

• Live in the UK with their partner who already holds a valid visa
• Work freely in almost any job, whether full-time, part-time, or self-employed
• Access healthcare services through the NHS
• Study at schools, colleges, or universities in the UK
• Travel in and out of the UK without restrictions
• Become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence (subject to meeting requirements)

Who Can Apply for a UK Dependent Visa as a Spouse?

You can apply for a UK dependent visa as a spouse if your partner (wife or husband) currently holds a valid visa and is living in the UK.

To be eligible for a UK dependent visa, you and your partner must be over 18, your marriage must be legally recognised in the UK, and you must show that your relationship is genuine and ongoing.

In most cases, you'll also need to show that you can support yourselves financially without relying on public funds and that you have suitable accommodation arranged.

Key Requirements for a UK Dependent Visa for Spouse

To apply for a UK dependent visa as a spouse, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria related to your relationship, accommodation, and financial support.

To qualify for a UK spouse dependent visa:

• Both partners must be 18 or older.
• You must be legally married, which is recognised by the UK.
• Your partner must hold a valid UK visa.
• Your relationship must be genuine and subsisting.
• Your partner must meet the financial requirements.
• You must meet the adequate accommodation requirements.
• You must not have breached UK immigration laws.
• You must meet additional requirements depending on your circumstances.

To ensure your application meets all criteria, it is recommended to schedule a consultation with our UK immigration solicitors for a thorough eligibility assessment.

Changes to UK Dependent Visa Rules in 2024

In 2024, the UK government introduced tighter rules for dependants of international students and Health and Care Worker visa holders. These changes aim to manage migration levels more effectively and ensure visa policies are not misused for family migration.

Restrictions for International Students (Effective January 2024)

Since January 2024, most international students are no longer permitted to bring their dependents, including spouses, partners, or children, to the UK. The only exceptions are students pursuing PhD programs or postgraduate research degrees, who can still bring their family members. This measure was introduced to control overall migration and ensure student visas are used primarily for education purposes.

Restrictions for Health and Care Workers (Effective 11 March 2024)

From 11 March 2024, care workers and senior care workers on the Health and Care Worker visa are no longer eligible to bring dependants to the UK while working. This change was implemented following a notable increase in dependants accompanying care workers, which placed additional pressure on migration policy management.

These 2024 updates highlight the UK government's focus on stricter eligibility criteria for dependants, ensuring visas are aligned with the country's migration and workforce priorities.

Documents Required for a UK Dependent Visa for Spouse

To apply for a UK dependent visa, both the applicant and the sponsor must provide supporting documents to prove eligibility.

Documents from the applicant:

• Your current passport
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate
• Proof of accommodation in the UK (e.g., tenancy agreement)
• Evidence of financial support (e.g., bank statements)
• TB test result (if applicable)
• Criminal record check (if required)
• Any additional documents relevant to your circumstances

Documents from the UK visa holder (sponsor)

• Valid passport or travel document
• BRP card or eVisa (if applicable)
• Proof of immigration status in the UK
• Evidence of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate)
• Proof of maintenance funds
• Evidence of adequate accommodation
• Any additional supporting documents as required

Requirements may vary depending on your circumstances and visa type. For a complete checklist and personalised guidance, it's recommended to consult our UK immigration solicitors for eligibility assessments and document preparation.

How to Apply for a UK Dependent Visa?

To apply for a UK dependent visa, you must submit your application online through the official UK government website and provide all required documents and pay associated fees.

Here's a step-by-step process to apply for a UK dependent visa as a spouse:

1. Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
2. Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents
3. Step 3: Apply Online Through GOV.UK Website
4. Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
5. Step 5: Pay the Required Fees
6. Step 6: Book and Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
7. Step 7: Wait for a Decision

Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility

The first step in applying for a UK dependent visa as a spouse is to check whether you are eligible. You must be married, in a civil partnership, or in a genuine long-term relationship with the main visa holder.

If you're unsure, contact Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 for an eligibility assessment and boost your chances of a successful application.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

After the eligibility assessment, you should collect all the supporting documents you will need to prove your eligibility for a UK dependent visa as a spouse. Please note that incomplete or incorrect documents may result in refusal.

Step 3: Apply Online Through GOV.UK Website

To apply for a UK dependent visa as a spouse, visit the official GOV.UK website and submit a correct visa application form online.

Begin by creating an account on the official Home Office portal, which allows you to save your progress, upload documents, and track your application.

Accuracy is essential when filling out the online form. Ensure all information matches your supporting documents, including your and your partner's details and details of any dependents applying with you. Mistakes can lead to delays or refusals.

Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents

After submitting your visa application, you will need to upload or submit all supporting documents, including proof of identity, relationship, and financial stability. Any document not in English or Welsh must have a certified translation. This ensures UKVI can clearly understand your evidence.

Step 5: Pay the Required Fees

When applying for a UK dependent visa, you must pay the appropriate visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which provides access to the NHS during your extended stay in the UK.

Step 6: Book and Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

Most UK visa applications require you to provide biometrics to verify your identity.

Eligible applicants can use the UK Immigration ID Check App to verify their identity digitally, eliminating the need for a service centre visit.

If the app is not available for your visa type, schedule an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre. During the appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. Submitting accurate biometrics is essential to avoid delays.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

Once your UK dependent visa application and supporting documents are submitted, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will review your case.

Standard processing usually takes several weeks. Priority services may be available for faster decisions. You will be informed by email or letter whether your visa extension is approved, and what steps to take next.

UK Dependent Visa Processing Times in 2025

In 2025, a UK dependent visa for a spouse typically takes up to 3 weeks when applying from outside the UK, and around 8 weeks if applying from within the UK. For those who need a faster decision, the Priority Service or Super Priority Service may be available to speed up processing.

UK dependent visa application processing times can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the country from which you are applying. Preparing all documents accurately and submitting a complete application can help avoid delays and improve your chances of a smooth process.

How Much Does a UK Dependent Visa for a Spouse Cost?

In 2025, a UK dependent visa for a spouse cost £1,938 from outside the UK or £1,321 from within the UK, plus the IHS (£3,105 outside, £2,587.50 inside). The minimum total is £5,043 for overseas applications and £3,908.50 for in-country applications, excluding optional fees.

When applying from outside the UK

The dependent visa application fee is £1,938 if applying from outside the UK, and the IHS is £3,105 for a 2-year and 9-month visa. A minimum cost of £5,043 (excluding optional extras).

When applying from inside the UK

The dependent visa application fee is £1,321 if applying from inside the UK, and the IHS fee is £2,587.50 for a 2-year and 6-month visa. A minimum cost of £3,908.50 (excluding optional extras).

How Can I Get My UK Dependent Visa Fast?

To get your UK dependent visa fast, you can choose the Priority Service (decision in 5 working days) or the Super Priority Service (decision in 24 hours) when submitting your application. You must pay an additional non-refundable fee for priority or super-priority services on top of the standard visa application fee.

How Much Is the UK Dependent Visa Priority Service?

For a UK Dependent visa, the Priority Service costs £500 for a decision within 5 working days, while the Super Priority Service costs £1,000 for a next-working-day decision. These fees are extra to the standard application fee and are non-refundable if the visa is refused.

What Happens After Approval?

Successful applicants receive a visa valid for the same duration as the main visa holder. They can live, work, and study in the UK, and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if eligibility requirements are met.

Duration of Stay on a UK Dependent Visa for Spouse

The length of stay on a UK dependent visa for a spouse generally aligns with the duration of the main visa holder's stay. For example, if the primary visa holder has a Skilled Worker visa valid for two years, the dependent spouse will typically receive a visa for the same period.

When the main visa holder obtains Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the dependent spouse may also apply for ILR, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

If ILR is not yet granted, the spouse can usually extend their dependent visa, often for periods of up to three years, ensuring they can continue to live, work, and study in the UK without disruption.

Work Rights for UK Dependent Visa Holders

Holders of a UK dependent visa as a spouse are generally allowed to work in the UK, including full-time, part-time, or self-employed individuals. However, there are some restrictions on certain roles, such as professional sports careers or positions requiring formal medical training. This flexibility allows spouses to support themselves and contribute to the UK workforce while living in the country.

How Can Our Immigration Solicitors Help with Your UK Dependent Visa Application?

Our experienced immigration solicitors provide professional guidance for UK dependent visa applications, helping to maximise your chances of approval.

At Wembley Solicitors, our specialist immigration solicitors will:

• Assess your eligibility and explain the application process
• Advice on required supporting documents
• Accurately complete and submit your visa application
• Handle correspondence with UKVI
• Track your application and provide updates

For expert guidance, contact Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 or email info@wembleysolicitors.com.

How Much Do Solicitors Charge for a UK Dependent Visa Application?

At Wembley Solicitors, our immigration solicitors charge an affordable fixed fee from £1,000 to £1,200 plus VAT for a UK dependent visa application.

We manage every legal aspect of your UK dependent visa application until the Home Office reaches a decision, including eligibility assessment, document review, application preparation, submission, and responding to Home Office queries.

Need Help with Your UK Dependent Visa Application?

Our experienced immigration solicitors in London can guide you through the entire UK dependent visa application process.

If you need help with your UK dependent visa application, contact our Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 or email info@wembleysolicitors.com.