Everything You Need to Know About Child Dependant Visas in the UK

When considering moving to the United Kingdom, one of the first things that come to mind for families is how to bring their children with them. Whether you’re looking to join a spouse, apply for work, or move for other family-related reasons, ensuring your children’s immigration status is in order is a top priority. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about child dependant visas in the UK, including the process, requirements, and tips for getting it right the first time. Plus, we’ll walk you through how to apply for your child’s passport in the UK—an essential part of this process.

At Immigration SP, we understand the complexities of the UK immigration system and are here to make your journey as smooth as possible. If you need assistance, our team of expert immigration lawyers is ready to guide you every step of the way.

What is a Child Dependant Visa?

A child dependant visa allows the child of a person who holds a valid visa for the UK (such as a work, student, or family visa) to live with them in the United Kingdom. In order to apply for this visa, the child must meet certain requirements, including being under the age of 18, not being married or in a civil partnership, and being financially dependent on the parent or legal guardian.

This visa ensures that children can join their parents or guardians while they live, study, and work in the UK. The process can be straightforward if you have the right documentation and meet the necessary criteria.

Who Can Apply for a Child Dependant Visa?

Typically, you can apply for a child dependant visa if you are the biological or adoptive parent of a child who is dependent on you. This includes:

• Parents who are living in the UK on a valid visa, such as a Tier 2 (General) visa, a skilled worker visa, or a family reunion visa.
• Children who are under 18 years of age.
• Children who are financially dependent on their parents or guardians.

In some cases, even if your child is over the age of 18, they may still be eligible for a child dependant visa if they are financially dependent on you. This can apply to young adults who are still in education or unable to support themselves financially.

Requirements for a Child Dependant Visa

The requirements for a child dependant visa depend on the type of visa the parent holds. However, there are a few general conditions that apply to all applicants:

1. Proof of Relationship: You’ll need to prove that the child is indeed your dependent. This might include birth certificates, adoption papers, or other legal documents.
2. Financial Proof: As a sponsor, you must show that you can financially support your child during their stay in the UK. This may involve demonstrating a certain level of income or savings to meet the Home Office’s financial requirements.
3. No Criminal Record: Like all visa applicants, both parents and children must not have any serious criminal convictions.
4. Proof of Dependency: You must provide evidence that the child is dependent on you for their financial support and well-being. This can include evidence of school attendance, medical records, and letters from educational institutions.
5. Valid Passport: You must provide the child’s valid passport as part of the application process. It’s essential to ensure that the child’s passport meets UK passport standards, and if they don’t have one yet, you will need to apply for a children’s passport UK.
6. Additional Documents: Depending on the type of visa the parent holds, additional documents may be required. For example, a Tier 2 visa holder may need to submit evidence of their employment, while a student visa holder may need to show proof of their study.

How to Apply for a Child Dependant Visa

The application process for a child dependant visa is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check Eligibility: Before applying, ensure your child meets the requirements. If your child is already in the UK, they may be eligible to apply for an extension. If they are outside the UK, you will need to submit an application for entry clearance.
2. Complete the Application: The first step in the application process is to complete the relevant online form. Depending on your situation, this could be a Tier 2 dependent visa form or a form related to the type of visa you hold. Make sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information to avoid delays.
3. Gather Documents: Collect all the necessary supporting documents. This includes proof of your relationship, financial documents, the child’s birth certificate, passport, and any other documents requested by the Home Office.
4. Submit Biometrics: You may be required to submit biometric information as part of the application process. This typically involves fingerprinting and a photograph.
5. Pay the Fees: The child dependant visa application comes with an associated fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and the length of stay. Be sure to check the latest fee structure on the UK government website.
6. Wait for a Decision: Once you’ve submitted your application, the Home Office will review it and provide a decision. The processing time can vary, but it typically takes around 8 weeks for an initial decision.
7. Receive Your Visa: If approved, your child will receive a visa to join you in the UK. They will be granted permission to stay for the same duration as your visa, or until they turn 18, whichever comes first.

Child Dependant Visa Extension

In some cases, you may need to extend your child’s dependant visa. If your own visa is extended or renewed, your child’s visa will also need to be extended to ensure they can stay in the UK with you. The process for extending a dependant visa is similar to the initial application process and will require you to submit updated documents and pay the necessary fees.

What Happens if Your Child’s Visa is Refused?

If your child’s visa application is refused, don’t panic. There are several steps you can take to rectify the situation. First, review the reasons for refusal provided by the Home Office. In many cases, refusals are due to missing or incorrect documents. If you believe there was an error or if your circumstances have changed, you may be able to submit an appeal or reapply with the correct information.

If you need help navigating a visa refusal, the team at Immigration SP can provide you with expert legal advice and representation. We specialize in UK immigration law and can assist with appeals, reapplications, and ensuring that all your documents are in order.

Applying for a Passport for Your Child in the UK

Once you have secured a child dependant visa, you’ll need to ensure that your child has a valid passport. If your child is a UK citizen, you can apply for a children’s passport UK. If your child is not a UK citizen, you will need to ensure they have a valid passport from their home country.

How to Apply for a Passport for Your Newborn or Child

1. Documents Required: To apply for a passport for your child, you’ll need to provide proof of your child’s identity, birth certificate, proof of nationality, and parental identification.
2. Apply Online: The UK government provides an easy online application process for children’s passports. If you’re applying for a passport for a newborn, you can apply directly through the official government portal.
3. Attend a Passport Appointment: For first-time applicants, you may need to attend an appointment to submit biometric information (such as photographs and fingerprints).
4. Delivery: Once your application is approved, your child’s passport will be delivered to your home address. The process can take several weeks, so it’s essential to apply early to avoid delays.

For newborns, the passport for newborn process is slightly different. You’ll need to ensure that all necessary documents are submitted, and if you are unsure, it’s always best to consult with experts like Immigration SP to ensure everything is in order.

Why Choose Immigration SP?

At Immigration SP, we specialize in all aspects of UK immigration law. Our team of skilled professionals can help you navigate the complexities of child dependant visas, from eligibility to the application process. Whether you’re applying for a child dependant visa or need assistance with other immigration matters, we are here to support you.

With years of experience, we provide tailored legal advice to individuals and families in the United Kingdom. We can also assist with applying for your child’s passport for a newborn or children’s passport UK, ensuring that you comply with all regulations and receive the best possible outcome.

If you’re ready to apply for a child dependant visa or need help with any aspect of your UK immigration process, contact Immigration SP today. Our team will ensure that you have the correct documentation and information, giving you peace of mind every step of the way.