Moving to the United Kingdom is an exciting prospect, and for many, bringing family along is a key part of the journey. If you’re a visa holder wondering about the rules for a UK dependent visa—especially under categories like the Global Talent Visa or Innovator Founder Visa—this guide has you covered. As of 2025, the conditions for sponsoring dependents vary by visa type, and understanding these requirements is crucial for a smooth relocation. Here, we’ll break down the eligibility, application process, and latest updates to help you reunite with your spouse, children, or other loved ones in the UK.
What Is a UK Dependent Visa?
A dependent visa allows eligible family members of UK visa holders to join them in the country. Typically, this includes spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, and children under 18. In rare cases, other relatives (like elderly parents) may qualify if they’re fully dependent on you. The visa’s duration usually matches the primary visa holder’s stay, often granting rights to work and study in the UK.
Who Can Bring Dependents to the UK in 2025?
The ability to sponsor dependents depends on your visa category. Here’s a rundown of key visa types, including the Global Talent and Innovator Founder Visas:
- Skilled Worker Visa
Holders can bring their spouse, partner, and children, provided they meet financial requirements (e.g., a minimum income of £29,000 per year as of 2024, subject to review in June 2025). - Student Visa
Since January 2024, only PhD or postgraduate research students (RQF level 8) can sponsor dependents. Standard undergraduate or master’s students no longer qualify unless fully government-sponsored for a course over six months. - Global Talent Visa
This visa, designed for leaders in arts, sciences, or digital technology, allows dependents—spouses, partners, and children—to join you. There’s no minimum income requirement, but you must show you can support them without public funds. The flexibility of this visa extends to dependents, who can work unrestricted in most roles. - Innovator Founder Visa
Entrepreneurs with an endorsed business idea can bring their spouse, partner, and children. Like the Global Talent Visa, there’s no fixed income threshold, but you’ll need to prove sufficient funds to support your family alongside your business venture. - UK Ancestry Visa
Those with a British grandparent can sponsor their immediate family, subject to relationship and financial proof.
Note: Health and Care Worker visa holders cannot bring dependents as of March 2024, reflecting tightened migration policies.
Key Conditions for a UK Dependent Visa in 2025
To secure a dependent visa, both the primary visa holder and their family members must meet specific criteria. Here’s what’s required across these visa types:
1. Relationship Requirements
- Spouse or Civil Partner: A valid marriage or civil partnership certificate is needed.
- Unmarried Partner: Evidence of cohabitation for at least two years (e.g., joint leases, utility bills) is essential.
- Children: Must be under 18 when applying. Children previously on a dependent visa can remain eligible past 18 if still dependent.
- Adult Relatives: Rarely eligible (e.g., elderly parents), requiring proof of full financial dependency and lack of support in their home country.
2. Financial Requirements
- Skilled Worker Visa: A minimum income or savings to support dependents without public funds.
- Global Talent Visa: No set income threshold, but you must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency (e.g., savings, earnings from your field).
- Innovator Founder Visa: Evidence of funds to sustain your family and business, such as bank statements or investment records.
- General Rule: All visa holders must show they won’t rely on benefits like housing support.
3. Health and Character Checks
- Dependents from certain countries need a tuberculosis (TB) test if they are applying from outside the UK.
- Applicants over 16 may require a criminal record certificate, depending on their nationality.
4. Intent to Live Together
You must prove a genuine plan to reside with your dependents in the UK, supported by documents like a tenancy agreement or a letter outlining your intentions.
5. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
All dependents pay the IHS (£1,035 per adult annually as of 2025, subject to updates) for NHS access, regardless of visa type.
How to Apply for a UK Dependent Visa
The application process is consistent across categories like Skilled Worker, Global Talent, and Innovator Founder Visas:
- Submit Online: Use GOV.UK to complete a separate form for each dependent.
- Provide Documents: Include passports, relationship proof, financial evidence, and TB test results (if applicable).
- Pay Fees: £1,846 per person from outside the UK, or £1,048 from within, plus the IHS.
- Biometrics: Book an appointment for fingerprints and photos at a visa centre.
- Decision Time: Typically 8–12 weeks, or one day with the Super Priority Service (£800 extra).
Rights and Restrictions for Dependents
- Work: Dependents of Skilled Worker, Global Talent, and Innovator Founder visa holders can work freely (except as professional sportspersons).
- Study: Full access to UK education is granted.
- Travel: Unlimited entry and exit during the visa’s validity.
- Restrictions: No access to public funds (e.g., welfare benefits).
Specifics for Global Talent and Innovator Founder Visas
- Global Talent Visa: Dependents enjoy flexibility, which mirrors the main applicant’s freedom to work in any field (except sports). Their visa aligns with the main holder’s, which can be up to five years initially, with extensions possible.
- Innovator Founder Visa: Dependents’ visas match the initial three-year grant. As an entrepreneur, you’ll need to show that your business can support your family, aligning with the visa’s focus on innovation and scalability.
Recent Changes to Watch in 2025
UK immigration rules evolve, impacting dependent visas:
- Student Visa Limits: Only PhD students can bring families, reducing options for others.
- Income Threshold Pause: The spouse visa income requirement (£29,000) is under review, with a potential rise to £38,700 paused until June 2025.
- Care Worker Restrictions: The ban on dependents for Health and Care Worker visas continues, affecting recruitment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a skilled worker, a global talent, or an innovator launching a business, bringing your family to the UK in 2025 is achievable with the right preparation. The Global Talent Visa offers flexibility for creative and scientific leaders, while the Innovator Founder Visa supports entrepreneurial families. Confirm your visa’s eligibility, gather solid evidence, and apply early to ensure a smooth process. Visit GOV.UK for the latest forms, or seek expert advice to simplify your family’s move. Your UK adventure is better together!
