UK Skilled Worker Dependant Visa 2026 – Application Guide

The UK Skilled Worker Dependant Visa, previously known as the Tier 2 Dependant Visa, allows family members of Skilled Worker visa holders to join them in the UK. Eligible dependants include a spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or children under 18.

In some cases, children over 18 may also qualify if they previously held permission as a dependant. This guide explains the visa application process, required documents, and key details to help you prepare a strong application.

Who Can Apply as a Skilled Worker Dependant?

You may qualify as a dependant if you are:

• The spouse or civil partner of the Skilled Worker visa holder
• An unmarried partner in a relationship akin to marriage and have lived together for at least 2 years
• A child under 18
• A child over 18, if they previously held permission as a dependant and are still dependent

All dependants must intend to live together with the Skilled Worker visa holder in the UK.

Required Documents:

A successful application relies on submitting clear, well-organised documents to prove identity, family relationship, financial stability, and other required details.

Personal Identification Documents

Each dependant must provide:

• A valid passport with at least one blank page. The passport should ideally cover the entire planned stay in the UK.
• Two recent, passport-sized colour photographs complying with UKVI’s photo specifications.

Tip: Renew any passports approaching expiry before applying to avoid delays.

Check Also: UK Student Dependent Visa Rules – Check Here

Proof of Relationship:

The UK Home Office scrutinises the relationship between the main visa holder and each dependant. The required evidence varies depending on your relationship.

For Child Dependants

• Birth certificate listing both parents’ names
• Adoption papers (if applicable)

For Partners

• Marriage certificate (for spouses or civil partners)
• Evidence of a genuine and subsisting relationship for unmarried partners, such as:
  • Joint bank statements
  • Utility bills in both names
  • Photographs together across different times and events
  • Correspondence (letters, emails, messages)
  • Affidavits from friends and family confirming your relationship

Providing strong evidence in this category is critical to demonstrate your relationship is genuine.

Financial Documents:

Dependants must show they can be supported without relying on public funds. Financial documents may include:

• Bank statements covering at least the past six months
• Payslips
• Income tax returns
• Employment letters confirming salary and employment status

These help prove the Skilled Worker visa holder can support their family.

Accommodation Evidence:

UKVI requires proof that dependants will live in suitable accommodation that complies with UK housing standards. You can demonstrate this with:

• A tenancy agreement showing property details, tenant names, and lease duration
• Recent mortgage statements for those who own property

Sponsor’s Documents:

A key document in the Skilled Worker Dependant Visa application is the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The Skilled Worker visa holder’s CoS confirms their employment and legal status in the UK.

Dependants should also provide:

• A copy of the sponsor’s passport
• The sponsor’s Unique Application Number (UAN) or Global Web Form (GWF) reference number

Check that the CoS is valid at the time of application, as it has an expiry period.

Additional Supporting Documents:

Depending on your personal circumstances and nationality, you may also need:

• Criminal Record Certificate – required for applicants from certain countries or those applying for specific job sectors, to demonstrate they pose no security risk.
• Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate – required if applying from a country where TB screening is mandatory. The UK Home Office publishes a list of countries where TB tests are required.

Translation Requirements:

All documents not originally in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation. Each translation must:

• Be produced by a professional translator ideally accredited by a recognised professional body
• Include a statement confirming it is a true and accurate translation of the original document

Ensure translations are arranged well in advance to avoid delays in your application process.

How to Apply for UK Skilled Worker Dependant Visa 2026?

Applying for a Skilled Worker Dependant Visa involves several steps. Here’s how to navigate the process:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Ensure you qualify as a dependant and that you meet all requirements, including:

• Relationship criteria
• Intention to live together in the UK
• No general grounds for refusal (e.g. criminal convictions, immigration breaches)

2. Complete the Online Application

Each dependant must complete their own online visa application via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. You’ll be asked for:

• Personal and passport details
• Relationship to the main Skilled Worker visa holder
• Immigration and travel history

3. Pay the Fees

Two key fees apply:

Visa Application Fee

• Applying Outside the UK:
  • Up to 3 years: £769 per person
  • More than 3 years: £1,519 per person
• Applying Inside the UK:
  • Up to 3 years: £885 per person
  • More than 3 years: £1,751 per person

Reduced fees may apply if the Skilled Worker’s occupation is on the Immigration Salary List.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

This grants access to the NHS during your stay:

• £1,035 per year for adults
• £776 per year for children under 18

4. Attend Your Biometric Appointment

After submitting your application and paying fees, you’ll be instructed to:

• Schedule a biometric enrolment appointment to provide fingerprints and a digital photograph, either:
  • At a UKVCAS centre (if applying inside the UK)
  • At a visa application centre abroad
• Alternatively, if eligible, use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your identity document and upload a facial photo from your smartphone.

5. Submit Your Supporting Documents

Upload or provide original/certified documents to prove:

• Identity
• Relationship to the main visa holder
• Accommodation
• Financial means

Non-English or non-Welsh documents must be accompanied by certified translations.

6. Wait for a Decision

The Home Office will assess your application after biometric data and documents are submitted. Processing times are typically 8 to 12 weeks, but can vary based on application volumes or requests for additional information.

You’ll receive a decision notification via email once your application has been reviewed.

Why Good Preparation Matters:

A complete and well-prepared application greatly increases your chances of success. If you’re uncertain about any aspect of the process, consider seeking professional legal guidance to avoid errors or delays.

Frequently Asked Questions: