If you are a UK resident and have a child who lives abroad and is dependent on you, you may be able to bring them to the UK with a child dependent visa. This type of visa is designed to enable parents who are settled in the UK to bring their children to live with them, provided they can show that the child is dependent on them and that they are able to provide for them financially.
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the child dependent visa in the UK. We will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to apply for this visa, as well as a state table, FAQs, and a conclusion.
Steps to follow:
Step 1: Check if you are eligible
Before applying for a child dependent visa, it is important to check if you and your child are eligible. In order to be eligible, you must be settled in the UK or have a refugee status. Additionally, your child must be under the age of 18 and not married or in a civil partnership. They must also be dependent on you financially and not be living an independent life.
Step 2: Prepare your documents
Once you have established your eligibility, you will need to prepare your documents. These will include your passport, evidence of your status in the UK, evidence of your relationship with your child, and evidence of your financial means to support them in the UK.
Step 3: Fill out the application form
The next step is to fill out the child dependent visa application form. You can do this online or by downloading the form and filling it out manually. Make sure you answer all the questions truthfully and accurately, and provide all the necessary information.
Step 4: Pay the fee
You will be required to pay a fee for your child dependent visa application. The fee varies depending on where you are applying from and the length of time you wish to stay in the UK. You can pay the fee online when you submit your application.
Step 5: Submit your application
Once you have completed the application form and paid the fee, you will need to submit your application. You can do this online or by mailing your application to the appropriate address.
Step 6: Attend your appointment
If your application is successful, you will be invited to attend an appointment at a UK visa application centre to provide your biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph. You will also need to bring all your original documents with you to this appointment.
Step 7: Wait for a decision
After you have attended your appointment and provided your biometric information, you will need to wait for a decision on your application. This can take up to 12 weeks, so be patient and wait for the UKVI to notify you of their decision.
State Table:
Below is a state table that outlines the key details of the child dependent visa in the UK:

FAQs:
What is a child dependent visa in the UK?
- A child dependent visa in the UK is a type of visa that allows a child to join their parent(s) who are already living and working in the UK.
Who is eligible to apply for a child dependent visa in the UK?
- A child who is under 18 years old and is not married or in a civil partnership can apply for a child dependent visa in the UK.
What are the requirements for a child dependent visa in the UK?
- The requirements for a child dependent visas in the UK. Include proof of relationship with the parent(s), proof of financial support, and proof of accommodation in the UK.
Can a child dependent visas holder work in the UK?
- No, a child dependent visas holder cannot work in the UK unless. They are over 16 years old and meet certain eligibility criteria.
How long can a child dependent visas holder stay in the UK?
- A child dependent visas holder can stay in the UK. As long as their parent(s) have valid visas or indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
Could a child dependent visas holder study in the UK?
- Yes, a child dependent visas holder can study in the UK.
Can a child dependent visas holder bring their spouse or partner to the UK?
- No, a child dependent visas holder cannot bring their spouse or partner to the UK.
Could a child dependent visas holder switch to another visa category in the UK?
- Yes, a child dependent visas holder can switch to another visa category in the UK, but they must meet the eligibility criteria for the new visa category.
Can a child dependent visa holder apply for settlement in the UK?
- Yes, a child dependent visas holder can apply for settlement in the UK after they have lived in the UK for a certain period of time.
How long does it take to process a child dependent visa application in the UK?
- The processing time for a child dependent visa application in the UK can vary depending on the individual circumstances, but it typically takes several weeks to several months.
Conclusion
A child dependent visas in the UK is an option for children who want to join their parent(s) in the UK. To apply for this visa, the child must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide evidence of their relationship with their parent(s), as well as proof of financial support and accommodation in the UK. While a child dependent visas holder cannot work in the UK, they can study and potentially apply for settlement in the UK after a certain period of time. It’s important to note that the processing time for a child dependent visas application can vary, so applicants should plan accordingly.