When a family member moves to the United Kingdom for work or study, it's natural for parents to want their children to accompany them. The child dependant visa UK is designed to facilitate this, allowing children to join their parents in the UK and live with them while they are studying or working. This article provides a detailed overview of the requirements, application process, and important considerations for obtaining a child dependant visa in the UK.

Who Is Eligible?

The child dependant visa UK is available for children of individuals who hold certain types of UK visas. This includes, but is not limited to, those with a Tier 1, Tier 2, or Tier 4 visa, as well as individuals with indefinite leave to remain or settled status. The child must be under 18 at the time of application, and they must not be living an independent life, meaning they should not be married, in a civil partnership, or living away from the family.

The child must be able to prove their relationship with the visa-holding parent through documents such as birth certificates or adoption papers. If the parents are divorced or separated, additional documentation may be required to prove that the child is under the sole responsibility of the visa-holding parent.

Financial Requirements

One of the key requirements for the child dependant visa UK is proving that the parent has sufficient funds to support the child without relying on public funds. The specific financial requirements can vary depending on the type of visa the parent holds. Generally, the parent must demonstrate that they can cover living expenses, including housing, food, and other essentials. This is typically shown through bank statements, pay slips, or proof of savings.

The amount required varies based on factors such as the number of dependants and the location in the UK. For example, if the parent is living in London, the financial threshold may be higher due to the higher cost of living in the capital.

Application Process

The application process for the child dependant visa UK can be initiated either from within the UK or from the child’s home country. The application is typically submitted online through the UK government’s visa application portal. The following steps outline the general process:

1. Complete the Application Form: The parent or guardian will need to fill out the appropriate form, providing detailed information about the child and the circumstances under which they are applying. This includes personal information, details about the parent’s visa, and financial information.
2. Pay the Application Fee: The application fee must be paid online at the time of submission. The fee varies depending on whether the application is made from within or outside the UK. Additionally, applicants are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows the child to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
3. Submit Supporting Documents: Along with the application, the parent must submit supporting documents, including the child’s birth certificate, proof of the parent’s visa status, and financial evidence. All documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
4. Biometric Information: The child may need to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, as part of the application process. This is usually done at a visa application center or, if the child is already in the UK, at a designated location.
5. Wait for a Decision: The processing time for a child dependant visa UK can vary, but it typically takes several weeks. The parent will be notified of the decision via email or post. If the application is successful, the child will receive a vignette in their passport, allowing them to travel to the UK.

Conclusion

The child dependant visa UK is an essential tool for families who wish to stay together while living in the UK. By understanding the eligibility requirements, financial criteria, and application process, parents can better prepare for a successful application. It’s advisable to seek professional legal advice if there are any uncertainties or complex family situations. Ensuring that all documentation is accurate and submitted on time will help avoid unnecessary delays or complications in bringing your child to the UK.