If you hold a UK Skilled Worker visa, you may be eligible to bring your partner and children to the UK as dependants. This allows families to live together while the main visa holder works in the UK, with dependants typically able to live, study, and in many cases work without restriction.
Following recent immigration updates in 2026, including changes to salary thresholds and assessment criteria, the rules for dependant applications have evolved. This guide sets out what you need to know, including who qualifies, what evidence is required, how dependant rights work in practice, and how this route can lead to settlement.
There are currently more rules on the horizon which may impact the information within this article. So whilst we try to keep this article up to date regularly, there may be a slight delay accomodating any changes in law.
Who Counts as a Dependant?
Under the 2026 Skilled Worker rules, you can bring the following family members as dependants:
- Your spouse or civil partner
- Unmarried partner (must prove you’ve lived together for at least 2 years)
- Children under 18 (including those born in the UK)
- Children over 18 (if they are already dependants and not living independently)
Each dependant must apply separately but can be included under your sponsorship.
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Financial Requirements for Dependants in 2026
The Home Office requires Skilled Worker families to show enough funds to support themselves without public funds.
| Family Member | Minimum Maintenance Funds (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Main applicant | £1,270 | Held for 28 consecutive days |
| Spouse or partner | £285 | Additional amount |
| First child | £315 | |
| Each additional child | £200 |
Employers can certify maintenance on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), removing the need for separate bank evidence.
“Many employers now choose to certify dependants’ maintenance directly. It’s a small detail that can save families significant paperwork.”
— Abdul Basit, Sponsor Licence Consultant, AHJ Immigration
Documents Needed for Dependants
Dependants must include the following with their online application:
- Valid passport
- Relationship evidence (marriage or birth certificate)
- Proof of shared residence or joint bills (for unmarried partners)
- TB test certificate (if required)
- Proof of funds (if not certified by employer)
- Main applicant’s CoS and visa details
Application Process – Step by Step
Step 1: Apply Online
Dependants must apply using the “Join or Stay with a Skilled Worker” form on GOV.UK.
Step 2: Pay Fees
Visa fees vary by length:
| Visa Duration | Application Fee (per person) | IHS (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 years | £827 | £1,035 |
| More than 3 years | £1,636 | £1,035 |
Please keep in mind these fees are due for a revision and may change with short notice.
Step 3: Biometrics and ID Verification
Dependants will either:
- Attend a UKVCAS or overseas visa centre appointment, or
- Use the UK Immigration ID Check app if eligible.
Step 4: Wait for Decision
Average processing time is 8–10 weeks for standard service or 5 working days for priority.
Work and Study Rights for Dependants
Dependants enjoy broad rights in the UK:
| Dependant Type | Work Rights | Study Rights |
|---|---|---|
| Partner / Spouse | Can work in almost any role (except as a professional sportsperson) | Can study without separate visa |
| Children (16–17) | Can work part-time or full-time if finished school | Can attend school or college |
| Children (under 16) | Must attend school | Not allowed full-time work |
Dependants cannot claim public funds or certain welfare benefits.
Settlement and ILR for Dependants
Dependants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years in the UK, provided they meet:
- Residence requirement (no more than 180 days outside the UK per year)
- Relationship still valid with main applicant
- Good character and English language standards
Once the main Skilled Worker obtains ILR, dependants may apply at the same time or separately.
What Happens If a Dependant Visa Is Refused?
Common refusal reasons include:
- Missing relationship documents
- Insufficient maintenance funds
- Unclear family link for older children
- Outdated CoS or expired main visa
Fix:
You can usually reapply with improved documentation or challenge errors through Administrative Review.
The Singh Family
Mr Singh, a Skilled Worker in construction, applied to bring his wife and two children from India.
The initial application was delayed due to mismatched bank statements.
AHJ Immigration reviewed the evidence, prepared a corrected submission, and had the entire family approved within 6 weeks.
“We thought the process was impossible at first, but AHJ guided us clearly through every step.”
— Mrs Singh, Skilled Worker Dependant, Birmingham
How AHJ Immigration Supports Skilled Worker Families
We provide end-to-end guidance within our scope for both employers and families navigating the Skilled Worker route.
Our services include:
- Dependant visa application support
- CoS review and maintenance certification
- Family documentation preparation
- Settlement planning for long-term stay
Free 15-Minute Case Assessment and Find Out How to Bring Your Family Under the Skilled Worker Route in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Skilled Worker dependants work in the UK?
Yes, partners can work freely in almost all jobs. Its always worth checking your specific visa document for any restrictions though.
2. Can children study in the UK as dependants?
Yes, children can attend schools or colleges without needing separate student visas.
3. How much money do I need to show for dependants?
£285 for your partner, £315 for your first child, and £200 for each additional child.
4. Can dependants apply separately later?
Yes, they can join the main applicant later using the “Join Family Member” form.
5. Do dependants qualify for ILR at the same time?
Usually yes, if they’ve lived in the UK for 5 years and meet residence rules.
Final Call to Action
Family unity is at the heart of the Skilled Worker route, and getting it right ensures stability for everyone involved.
Free 15 Minute Case Assessment to Find Out How to Bring Your Family Under the Skilled Worker Route in 2026.
Our immigration advisers will review your case, calculate your maintenance requirements, and prepare your dependant applications correctly, the first time.
This article provides general guidance on UK immigration matters. It does not create an adviser-client relationship and should not be treated as legal advice. You should always obtain advice relevant to your own circumstances before submitting an application.