Bring an end to the worry of your family being separated
Your UK Spouse Visa Extension In The Hands Of Our Immigration Experts
When spouse visa renewals are turned down, the effect on a family can be catastrophic. Married couples and those in civil partnerships who assumed they were settled in the UK are left torn apart by a Home Office decision that often makes no sense to them. Establishing your rights is difficult, the UK spouse visa extension processing time can be long and the whole system can leave you feeling confused and isolated. At A Y & J Solicitors, we provide expert legal advice and representation to those who are applying for a UK Spouse/Civil Partnership Visa extension. We’re proud of our strong track record of successful applications, which we’ve compiled because we believe families deserve the chance to stay together.
At A Y & J Solicitors in London, we understand spouse visa renewal requirements can be frustrating. We also know the Home Office is notoriously strict in this area, and failed extension applications lead to devastating consequences. We’ve helped many people who have found themselves fearful of facing a life without their loved ones through no fault of their own. We know the challenges and how to address them. The stakes are too high to go through this process on your own, hoping you’ve filled in the correct spouse visa renewal documents and crossing your fingers for a favourable outcome. We do all the hard work for you, ensuring everything is correct and timely. Let our specialists take the weight off your shoulders so you can rest assured you’ve done everything you can to secure your UK spouse visa extension.
Case study: Click here to read how we helped secure an extension of leave for the spouse of a person present and settled in the UK despite her husband’s income falling below the minimum income requirement.
"I have nothing but praise for these attorneys. They always deliver outstanding outcomes. They have been really helpful and informed throughout the entire process. It is the company's top goal to satisfy their customers. Every time, I could feel their resolve and compassion. They encouraged me when I didn't believe I had the strength to continue. I received exceptional service that went above and beyond my expectations."
Madhu Kirani
Expert service
Bad advice can lead to delays and refusals you can’t afford to risk. That’s why we assign a subject matter expert - a UK immigration associate - to manage your case throughout.
Fast response
It’s frustrating when you don’t know what’s going on with your case. We guarantee a reply to all messages/emails within 24 working hours or we refund 20% of your fees.
Fixed fees
No one wants to be worried about runaway legal costs. Our services have fixed fees so you know exactly how much you need to pay, with no nasty surprises down the line.
Whatever Your Immigration Challenge – We Can Help You
We are specialists in immigration law and have supported more than 4,000 business owners and professionals around the globe to successfully navigate the UK system. We work quickly, always responding to any queries within 24 working hours. And we work closely with the Home Office to pre-empt issues before they jeopardise sponsorship applications, extensions or breach compliance. We manage all United Kingdom immigration matters including visa applications under the new points-based immigration system, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Spouse Visas, nationality and more. We also handle complex cases of appeal, administrative reviews, judicial reviews and the many immigration challenges involving European Union law and human rights.
Need Expert Legal Guidance to Help You Through the Minefield of Spouse Visa Renewal?
A Y & J Solicitors has more than 1,200 positive client reviews across Google and Trustpilot and is listed in The Legal top 500 best UK law firms, so you can rest assured your immigration challenges are in safe hands when you take these three simple steps:
Assess Your Needs. Let us know about your spouse visa renewal plans and we’ll tell you how we can support your specific needs.
Get Into The Detail. You’ll be assigned to one of our Immigration Associates who will examine your case and walk you through every step of your application, using our proven 10-step process.
Enjoy Peace of Mind. Know your spouse visa extension application is in safe hands with expert immigration lawyers to guide you every step of the way.
As a multi-award-winning, SRA-regulated law firm recommended by The Legal 500 with over a decade of specialised immigration experience, we create the gold standard and benchmark in expertise, authority, and credibility to get the desired results. Moreover, this result driven approach has created an overall record of 5,000+ successful immigration and visa applications, enabling the companies and individuals to be confident that their visa process is in experienced hands committed to their success.
Recognised. Respected. Accredited.
Our commitment to excellence is backed by the best.
We take pride in being featured and officially accredited by top business, immigration, and legal platforms. Our work continuously meets the highest criteria of trust, credibility, and results, earning us major accolades and high-level media attention. These accolades are more than just badges; they serve as evidence that clients are in capable, safe hands when they choose us.
Transforming Lives: Real Stories of Client Satisfaction
"Grateful thanks to Ms.Ashu Singh and A Y & J Solicitors team for excellent service from start to finish. The team was very professional, explained every step clearly, and handled my visa application with great care. Thanks to their guidance, my visa was approved without any issues. I highly recommend their services.”"
Pawan Chahal
"I had a wonderful experience working with Ikra Ahmed. She was professional, knowledgeable, and very supportive throughout the entire process. I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of expert guidance."
bella
"Called me regarding finance visa inquiry, answered all my questions was very clear and reassuring"
N
"Hi Ikra,
Thank you so much! You helped me with my visa application even though I had many complications. You handled everything properly and smoothly, without any issues. I didn’t have to worry about going back and forth at all. If anyone is looking for legal advice or help with immigration services, I will definitely recommend you. Take care, and thanks for everything you’ve done!"
ANAKHA SHAJI
"Having gud command and knowledge about the process.keep it up doing commendable job"
sunny charles
"I am delighted to share that I received my Tier 2 visa in just two days. My sincere gratitude goes to Dia and the team at AY&J Solicitors for their exceptional support and guidance throughout the process.
Thank you once again for your outstanding service."
SHYAM YAGNIK
All You Need to Know About Your UK Spouse Visa Extension
When do I need to apply for a spouse visa renewal?
The initial Spouse Visa in the UK is granted for a period of 2.5 years, or 30 months. After this period, you can apply for an extension, which is also granted for 2.5 years. Once you have been living in the UK for 5 years on a Spouse Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows you to live in the UK without any time restrictions. However, the rules and requirements for this can be complex, so it’s advised to seek professional legal help when considering this route.
Who needs to apply for a spouse visa renewal?
A spouse visa extension or civil partnership extension is required to continue your stay in the UK if you are:
The spouse or civil partner of a British citizen
The spouse or civil partner of a settled person
The spouse or civil partner of a person in the UK with limited leave under Appendix EU
The spouse or civil partner of a person in the UK as a Turkish ECAA worker or business person
The spouse or civil partner of a person who has refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK.
You will be given the opportunity to extend the visa for a further 30 months. For a spouse visa extension after five years, you may be entitled to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
What are the requirements for a UK spouse/civil partnership visa extension?
To successfully obtain a UK spouse/civil partnership visa, you must meet the following (non-exhaustive) criteria:
You were granted initial leave under spouse/civil partner category
You intend to live with your sponsor and have adequate accommodation
Your sponsor meets the spouse visa extension financial requirement of £18,600 per year (this is set to rise to £29,000 in Spring 2024, followed by gradual increases to £38,700) (this increases if you have children)
You meet the English language requirements – the English level for a spouse visa extension CEFR A2 English language (it’s A1 for an initial application under the route).
All these requirements must be evidenced when you apply for a UK spouse/civil partnership visa extension.
How do I apply for a UK spouse/civil partnership visa extension?
For the application to be valid, you need to ensure you have ticked off everything on the spouse visa renewal checklist :
Apply online using Form FLR(M).
Pay the correct spouse visa renewal fee.
Ensure the correct payment has been made toward the Immigration Health Surcharge
Provide a valid or most recent passport, national identity card or travel document for yourself and any dependents who are applying as specified in the application form, as evidence of your identity and nationality, unless it is not available for reasons beyond your control.
Complete all sections of the form as required.
Make sure the relevant declarations are signed by you and your sponsor.
Book an appointment with UKVCAS to enrol your biometrics. Upload all supporting documents to UKVCAS before you attend your appointment for biometrics.
Our lawyers can assist you with correctly preparing your extension application. It is essential that it is filled in correctly as if it is returned to you, not only will you have wasted precious time and energy but if your spouse visa expires you may lose your right to remain or work in the country.
What supporting documents will I need for a spouse/civil partnership visa extension?
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) officials may want to see the following (non-exhaustive) list of documents included with your application:
Your current passport or other travel documents.
Your marriage or civil partnership certificate.
Details of any criminal convictions, if applicable.
Evidence that you and your spouse have been living together continuously in the UK since you were last granted the visa in this category.
Your National Insurance number (if you have one).
Details of your accommodation in the UK.
Bank statements and details of salary showing you or your sponsor can meet the minimum income threshold.
Your sponsor’s British passport or Indefinite Leave to remain documents.
Details of any children who are also extending or applying as your dependents
What are the advantages of having your UK spouse/civil partnership visa extended?
By choosing to extend your UK spouse/civil partnership visa, not only will you be able to remain in the country, you will be one step closer to being able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain and, eventually, British citizenship.
What can I do if my spouse visa extension is refused?
It is possible that your extension could be refused. The British government has a goal to bring net migration down into the tens of thousands – despite growing opposition to what is considered an unrealistic and harsh target. One group of applicants who have been targeted to bring down immigration is families. This can result in refusing family visas, including spouse/civil partnership visa extensions on even the slightest pretext.
We understand the emotional rollercoaster couples can go through when they are forced to challenge the Home Office. Our lawyers provide sensitive and compassionate service and have the expertise and experience needed to appeal a negative decision by UKVI.
Why choose A Y & J to help you apply for a UK spouse/civil partnership visa extension?
As highly experienced immigration experts, our lawyers will work with you to ensure your application is filled in correctly and all the correct documentation is provided. We have helped many clients and received successful outcomes for them. By working with us, you can be confident your best interests will be protected and the visa extension application process will go through smoothly.
Are there any continuous residency requirements attached to the spouse/civil partnership visa extension process?
Although there are no mandatory restrictions on the amount of time you can spend out of the country, there is a general requirement that you and your spouse must prove that you genuinely intend to ‘permanently reside together in the UK’.
If you spend vast periods of time abroad, this can be difficult to establish. Therefore, it is wise to talk to our team if you need to spend large chunks of time overseas so that we can advise you on any possible detriment to the extension application.
How can my spouse and I prove we have been living together for the past 30 months?
The best way to prove you and your spouse/civil partner have been cohabitating over the course of your visa is to provide official letters such as council tax letters, utility bills or bank statements in both your names (or addressed to you individually at the same address) evenly spaced across the 2.5 year periodIf you do not have a lot of correspondence addressed to you at your shared home, you may be able to supplement your application with other sources of evidence that you have lived together throughout the period.
What is the spouse visa extension fee 2025 in the UK?
How much it costs depends on who you’re joining and how you apply.
Apply outside the UK
Apply in the UK
Cost if joining your partner, parent or child
£1,846
£1,048
Cost for each dependent added to your application
£1,846 each person
£1,048 each person
Team Of Experts Behind Our Success
Yash Dubal
Chief Executive Officer
The driving force behind the company, Yash has years of legal experience and an uncompromising focus on client success. His leadership is the catalyst for integrity, innovation, and results.
Sunny Sandhu
Senior Associate
Sunny is an experienced immigration caseworker with 8 years in Sponsor Licence, Skilled Worker, family settlement, and Naturalisation matters. He built a strong UK business client base and is the go-to for direct advice, problem solving, and winning outcomes.
Anik Sumon
Chief Operating Officer
Anik combines strategic mind with operational acumen to drive scale of impact and efficiency in service delivery. His systems philosophy runs the engine smoothly.
Amin Akhtar
Business Relationship Manager
Amin heads the frontlines of client interaction. He is driven by a consultative mind and profound knowledge of immigration options, matching clients with solutions that best meet their objectives.
Applying For a UK Spouse Visa Extension Doesn’t Have To Be a Headache
A Y & J’s immigration lawyers are here to take the stress out of the situation. You deserve to be able to settle in the UK without fear that a tick in the wrong box is going to set you back months or even years. Get in touch today and get peace of mind your application is in the right hands.
You Deserve to Live and Work in the UK Alongside Your Partner
Living in the UK without your partner can be both stressful and emotionally taxing. The good news? With an Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa, you can be with your partner in the UK for good. Our immigration experts have spent decades helping reunite partners in the UK. With a deep understanding of all UK Unmarried Partner Visa requirements, we’ll make sure you feel confident in your application and its chances for approval. We’re here to ensure you and your partner can start a new chapter in the UK, together.
Enabling Partners To Be Together with Unmarried Partner and Same-Sex Visas
At A Y & J Solicitors in London, we’ve helped clients around the globe to submit a successful UK Unmarried Partner Visa and Same-Sex Partner Visa application. We know how important it is for you to live with the one you love, and we will work with you 1:1 to ensure your application has the best chance of success. Our immigration associates will provide you with the answers you need to complete your application without any costly mistakes.
"I can never recommend them enough! The entire process was so smooth and they guided us from start to finish. From sorting out every single document to submission, we never felt clueless or alone in the process. Not to mention the very quick response to my endless WhatsApp messages I sent to Sunny. Highly highly recommend!"
Lovely Hilario
Expert service
Bad advice can lead to delays and refusals you can’t afford to risk. That’s why we assign a subject matter expert - a UK immigration associate - to manage your case throughout.
Fast response
It’s frustrating when you don’t know what’s going on with your case. We guarantee a reply to all messages/emails within 24 working hours or we refund 20% of your fees.
Fixed fees
No one wants to be worried about runaway legal costs. Our services have fixed fees so you know exactly how much you need to pay, with no nasty surprises down the line.
Whatever Your Immigration Challenge – We Can Help You
We are specialists in immigration law and have supported more than 4,000 business owners and professionals around the globe to successfully navigate the UK system. We work quickly, always responding to any queries within 24 working hours. And we work closely with the Home Office to pre-empt issues before they jeopardise sponsorship applications or breach compliance. We manage all United Kingdom immigration matters, including visa applications under the new points-based immigration system, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), Spouse Visas, nationality and more. We also handle complex cases of appeal, administrative reviews, judicial reviews and the many immigration challenges involving European Union law and human rights.
How We Helped a Client Swiftly Secure an Unmarried Partner Visa UK
Our client, Ms. H, came to A Y & J Solicitors looking for options — she desperately wanted to remain in the UK but needed a new visa to do so. Ms. H was anxious about her future in the UK, as her job depended on a successful application.
After learning more about her unique situation, our team recommended she apply for a UK Unmarried Partner Visa and helped her with the following:
Working through a UK Unmarried Partner Visa document checklist
Gathering all documents required for Unmarried Partner Visa UK applications (her application was document-heavy, as she was meeting the requirements through non-employment income from her Sponsor)
Providing a detailed cover letter to support her application
Answering any questions she had regarding her application
Submitting additional documents to the Home Office after they requested further documentation of Ms. H's relationship
Ms. H trusted the services provided by A Y & J Solicitors, and her application was approved by UKVI.
Need Expert Legal Guidance to Help You With Your Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa Application?
A Y & J Solicitors has more than 1,200 positive client reviews across Google and Trustpilot and is listed in The Legal top 500 best UK law firms, so you can rest assured your immigration challenges are in safe hands when you take these three simple steps:
Assess Your Needs. Let us know about your goals to bring your partner to the UK and we’ll tell you how we can support your specific needs.
Get Into The Detail. You’ll be assigned to one of our Immigration Associates who will examine your case. And walk you through every step of your application, using our proven 10-step process.
Enjoy Peace of Mind. Know your partner’s visa application is in safe hands with expert immigration lawyers to guide you every step of the way.
As a multi-award-winning, SRA-regulated law firm recommended by The Legal 500 with over a decade of specialised immigration experience, we create the gold standard and benchmark in expertise, authority, and credibility to get the desired results. Moreover, this result driven approach has created an overall record of 5,000+ successful immigration and visa applications, enabling the companies and individuals to be confident that their visa process is in experienced hands committed to their success.
Recognised. Respected. Accredited.
Our commitment to excellence is backed by the best.
We take pride in being featured and officially accredited by top business, immigration, and legal platforms. Our work continuously meets the highest criteria of trust, credibility, and results, earning us major accolades and high-level media attention. These accolades are more than just badges; they serve as evidence that clients are in capable, safe hands when they choose us.
Transforming Lives: Real Stories of Client Satisfaction
"Grateful thanks to Ms.Ashu Singh and A Y & J Solicitors team for excellent service from start to finish. The team was very professional, explained every step clearly, and handled my visa application with great care. Thanks to their guidance, my visa was approved without any issues. I highly recommend their services.”"
Pawan Chahal
"I had a wonderful experience working with Ikra Ahmed. She was professional, knowledgeable, and very supportive throughout the entire process. I highly recommend her services to anyone in need of expert guidance."
bella
"Called me regarding finance visa inquiry, answered all my questions was very clear and reassuring"
N
"Hi Ikra,
Thank you so much! You helped me with my visa application even though I had many complications. You handled everything properly and smoothly, without any issues. I didn’t have to worry about going back and forth at all. If anyone is looking for legal advice or help with immigration services, I will definitely recommend you. Take care, and thanks for everything you’ve done!"
ANAKHA SHAJI
"Having gud command and knowledge about the process.keep it up doing commendable job"
sunny charles
"I am delighted to share that I received my Tier 2 visa in just two days. My sincere gratitude goes to Dia and the team at AY&J Solicitors for their exceptional support and guidance throughout the process.
Thank you once again for your outstanding service."
SHYAM YAGNIK
Everything You Need to Know About Applying for an Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa
Who is eligible for the Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa?
To apply for the Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
You must have been living together with your partner who has British nationality or has had UK settled person status for at least two years
You are in a civil partnership or marriage which is recognised in the UK
You are a fiancé, fiancée, or proposed civil partner and will marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within six months of arriving
Your sponsoring partner meets the minimum income threshold
The minimum income threshold is one of the most contentious elements of the Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa requirements. The partner who is settled in the UK must be earning a minimum income of £18,600 for at least six months prior to making the visa application or have savings of £62,500. A further £3,800 is required for one child, and £2,400 for each additional child who are applying as dependants of the Partner
How do I apply for a Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa?
You can apply for an Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa online. You will need to fill in the extensive application form correctly and send in the required supporting documents.
At A Y & J Solicitors, we can assist you with your Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa application by collating the required documents and filling in the form correctly. Refusals are often the result of missing documents or a mistake on the form. Fortunately, by investing in our assistance, you can rest assured that your Unmarried Partner Visa UK is highly likely to be successful.
What supporting documents will I need for my Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa?
UKVI officials will look for the following documents/information in your Unmarried Partner Visa UK application:
Your current passport or other travel documents
Details of any criminal convictions, if applicable
Your parent’s date of birth and nationality
Your National Insurance Number (if you have one)
Details of your accommodation in the UK
Bank statements and details of your salary showing your sponsor can meet the minimum income threshold
Your sponsor’s British passport or Indefinite Leave to Remain documents
Details of any children who are also coming to the UK
Details of the countries outside the UK you’ve lived in and visited
UKVI may also want to see evidence of your relationship, which may include:
How you met and how often you see each other
How long you’ve lived together – you’ll need to send proof like council tax bills
Things you pay for together
Whether you are your partner’s carer
What can I do if my Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa is refused?
Unmarried Partner Visas get refused for different reasons. The British government has a goal to bring net migration down into the tens of thousands despite growing opposition to what is considered an unrealistic and harsh target.
One group of applicants who have been targeted to bring down immigration numbers is families. This can lead to refusal of family visas on even the smallest grounds.
When faced with a refusal you have options to challenge the refusal, which include
Submitting a new application
Lodging an appeal with the First-Tier Tribunal
We understand the emotional rollercoaster couples can go through when they are forced to fight the Home Office. Our lawyers provide sensitive and compassionate service and have the expertise and experience needed to challenge a negative decision by UKVI.
What are the Unmarried Partner Visa UK right to work requirements?
If you secure an Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa, you will be eligible to work in the UK as soon as the visa is granted.
Why should I choose A Y & J Solicitors to help me with my Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa?
At A Y & J Solicitors, our team has an in-depth understanding of Unmarried Partner Visa UK and Same-Sex Partner Visa requirements and achieves an incredibly high success rate for our clients. In each case, we provide clients with excellent customer service and a transparent fee structure with no hidden charges or extra costs. We offer caring service throughout the entire process, from your initial consultation until your visa decision.
We can accommodate our clients in a variety of ways, including in-house consultations at our central London office or online/telephone/Skype meetings. Our lawyers also know a handful of international languages, including Hindi & Gujarati, Romanian, Albanian, and Italian.
Team Of Experts Behind Our Success
Yash Dubal
Chief Executive Officer
The driving force behind the company, Yash has years of legal experience and an uncompromising focus on client success. His leadership is the catalyst for integrity, innovation, and results.
Sunny Sandhu
Senior Associate
Sunny is an experienced immigration caseworker with 8 years in Sponsor Licence, Skilled Worker, family settlement, and Naturalisation matters. He built a strong UK business client base and is the go-to for direct advice, problem solving, and winning outcomes.
Anik Sumon
Chief Operating Officer
Anik combines strategic mind with operational acumen to drive scale of impact and efficiency in service delivery. His systems philosophy runs the engine smoothly.
Amin Akhtar
Business Relationship Manager
Amin heads the frontlines of client interaction. He is driven by a consultative mind and profound knowledge of immigration options, matching clients with solutions that best meet their objectives.
Our Lawyers Are Here to Help You Secure an Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa
The immigration solicitors at A Y & J Solicitors are here to help you navigate the complex Unmarried Partner Visa UK or Same-Sex Partner Visa process. Contact our team today so we can ensure you and your partner can build a life together in the UK.
Skilled Worker Visa | Your Question Answered (Part 1)
A Y & J SolicitorsJanuary 28, 2023 3:30 pm
UK PBS Dependant Visa Guidance
The UK Dependant Visa is for the family members of people who have, or are applying for, visas various work categories including the Worker routes (formerly Tier 2), Temporary Worker routes (formerly Tier 5) as well as Representatives of overseas business, Innovators, Global Talent migrants and those with visas granted on the basis of UK ancestry. At A Y & J Solicitors, we can enhance the chance that your dependent family members are permitted to accompany you to the UK – so that you can embark on your new adventure, free from stress and worry.
As a focused immigration firm, we provide friendly, responsive, accurate legal advice and information that you can rely on. By instructing us to manage your entire family’s application for leave to enter the UK, you can be confident you receive right legal advice and strong legal representation.
To qualify for a Dependant Visa, you must be a dependant family member of a qualifying migrant. The Immigration Rules define a ‘dependant’ as being a:
Husband, wife or civil partner;
Unmarried or same-sex partner;
Child aged under 18 years at the time of application.
It is highly unlikely that any other family members would be successful in claiming dependant status for the purposes of a Dependant Visa.
To obtain a Dependant Visa as a spouse or partner, you must be the spouse or partner of someone who is either:
In the UK on a relevant visa, or
Applying for a visa at the same time as you are making your application for a Dependant Visa
Same-sex or unmarried partners must also be able to show they have been in a subsisting genuine relationship akin to marriage for the past two years.
Children may apply for a Dependant Visa if:
Both parents are applying for entry-clearance at the same time, or;
Both parents are already in the UK and the child is applying to join them, or;
One parent is already in the UK and the other parent is applying for entry-clearance to join them along with the child.
Children can only apply for a Dependant visa of a sole parent if:-
The parent is the only surviving parent; or
The parent has sole responsibility for the child’s upbringing; or
There are serious or compelling reasons for why the child can exceptionally apply as the dependant of only one of his/her parents.
An essential requirement of the Dependant Visa is that the family have enough money to support themselves without having to rely on public funds. For example, if the main applicant is applying for a Skilled Worker Visa, they will need to show that they have £285 in savings for the dependent partner plus an extra £315 in savings for the first dependent child and £200 for each additional dependent child. However, if a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence holder with an A-rating can certify that these funds will be made available, the applicant may not have to provide proof funds availability.
How Do I Apply for a Dependant Visa?
Applications for a Dependant Visa can be made inside or outside the UK, and online (unless the applicant is from North Korea). Our expert lawyers will assist you and make the process seamless.
What Documents Do I Need to Provide to Apply for a UK PBS Dependant Visa?
You will need to include the following documents in your application (Note: This is not an exhaustive list):
A passport or other valid travel document
Marriage Certificate for Spouse or Birth Certificate for Child
Bank statements
Evidence of relationship between the dependant and main applicant
The results of your tuberculosis test (if applicable)
The result of a criminal record check (if applicable)
We will assist you with collating the required documents for your entire family.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) are typically rigid in requiring that all documentation must be accurate and meet the stated specifications. Failure to comply means your application risks refusal or rejection. Any documents that are not written in the official languages of the UK (English or Welsh) must be translated by a certified professional translator.
In addition, the UKVI can enact checks to verify documentation for validity and accuracy. Any anomalies may lead to suspicion of deception, which may not only lead to application refusal but also can incur a 10 year ban on being granted entry clearance to the UK in future.
What is the processing time for the Dependant visa?
From outside the UK, a Dependant visa could take 12 weeks to be processed, from the date of your visa appointment.
For an additional fee the application can be submitted using the priority service, which would normally expedite the decision to within 5 working days.
From inside the UK, the current service standard is 8 weeks, from the appointment date.
There are priority and super priority services available for an additional cost. The priority service expedites the decision to 5 working days and the super priority expedites the decision to 24 hours.
What are the fees for a Dependant visa in the UK?
The dependent visa fee is charged in line with the main applicant.
Each dependent is also subject to the Immigration Health surcharge, which is currently £624 per year for adults and £470 per year for child applicants.
Inside the UK, there is a biometric enrolment fee of £19.20.
Fees for Skilled Worker dependents are as follows:
Skilled Worker dependent – 3 year visa – entry clearance – £610
Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation List) – 3 year visa – entry clearance £464
Skilled Worker dependant – 5 year visa – – entry clearance £1,220
Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation List) – 5 year visa – entry clearance £928
Skilled Worker dependant – 3 year visa – leave to remain – £704
Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation List) – 3 year visa– leave to remain £464
Skilled Worker dependant – 5 year visa– leave to remain £1408
Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation List) – 5 year visa– leave to remain £928
Entry Clearance and Leave to Remain Fees for dependents of other visa categories can also be found on the Home Office’s current fee list, including:
As a dependant, you will be able to work and study in the UK (with some restrictions), and children will be able to go to either a state or private school. And of course, your family will remain together, able to enjoy living in a new country.
In addition, after a completing a relevant qualifying period, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
What are the requirements for a dependant visa in the UK?
The dependant must be able to:-
Prove their Identity;
Prove their relationship to the main applicant;
Intend to live with their sponsor in the UK for the duration of their visa;
Have enough funds to support themselves without public funds (i.e. benefits).
What are the rules for the UK’s dependent visa?
The rules for dependent visas vary depending on the dependent route applied for. In all cases, partners must show that they are in a genuine subsisting relationship and that they intend to live with their partner in the UK. Children must be under 18 years old, unless, having subsequently turned 18 further to an application or original grant of (continuous) leave as a dependant.
In most cases the applicant will need to show that they can maintain and accommodate themselves in the UK without recourse to public funds (i.e. state benefits). Skilled Worker dependants may need to show a specified level of funds in their bank account or have a certification of maintenance from the Skilled Worker’s sponsoring employer. Other dependants, such as dependants of UK ancestry holders, may be able to show evidence of “adequate” funds without a specific level needing to be met.
What are the eligibility requirements for a Dependant Visa?
Only qualifying family members can apply for a dependent visa. This includes:-
Spouses
Civil partners
Unmarried partners (in a provable durable relationship)
Children under 18 years old at the date of application (dependent children who are over 18 can apply for extensions under the dependent category, provided they have held continuous leave as dependents since they were under 18)
Partners will need to prove that they are in a genuine relationship with the Main applicant and that they intend to live with their partner in the UK.
Children must not be leading an independent life (i.e. financially independent).
Who are the Leaders in Dependant Visa Applications?
Leaders, or “Main Applicants” are the individuals who have qualified for a UK visa – usually this will be on the basis of work or study in the UK. Main Applicants may be eligible to “sponsor” their dependent family members to apply for a dependent visa. The dependent visa will allow the family member to join the Main Applicant in the UK from overseas, to accompany the Main Applicant in moving to the UK or enable the family member, already resident, to continue to live together with the Main Applicant in the UK.
What will be the Duration of Stay under Dependant’s Visa?
A dependant visa would always be granted in line with the sponsor. If a child is making an application and their parents have different visa lengths, the child’s visa would be granted in line with the parent who has the shorter period of leave remaining.
If a Skilled Worker is being or has been granted indefinite leave to remain, their dependant partner can apply for ILR too, if they qualify. If the dependant partner does not qualify for ILR at the same time as the Skilled Worker, they can normally extend their visa under the dependant route when it is due to expire; this type of extension would be granted for 3 years automatically.
If the partner is granted ILR on another route (for example Long Residence) the dependant would need to switch into the spousal partner (Appendix FM) route.
Who can come to the UK as a dependant?
Only direct family members can apply as visa dependants. This would include:-
Spouses
Civil partners
Unmarried partners (who are in a durable relationship)
Children under 18 (at the date of application)
Unmarried partners must provide evidence of having lived with their partner for at least 2 years. Children must not be living an independent life.
Is it possible for dependent visa holders to work in the UK?
Dependant visa holders are permitted to work in the UK. They can work in a self-employed capacity but there are restrictions on employment as a professional sportsperson or a Doctor/Dentist in training.
How much funds will be required to obtain a dependant visa?
Dependants of Skilled Workers will need to meet the minimum requirement of funds. If the Skilled Worker themselves is being sponsored by an A-rated sponsor who is happy to “certify maintenance” for their employee and dependants, then evidence of a bank balance is not required. Similarly, if the dependants are applying for leave to remain and have lived in the UK for at least 12 months at the point of application, evidence of finances is not required.
Other dependants may need to show they have “adequate” funds to support themselves.
How A Y & J Solicitor Can Help with Your UK Dependant Visa Application?
Our qualified lawyers at A Y & J Solicitors have extensive experience processing successful UK Dependant Visa applications. We understand how complex these applications can be for some applicants; however, we will make everything as clear as possible. We work hard and provide the right legal advice and representation to improve chances of your Dependant Visa application getting approved.
A Y & J Solicitors’ first-rate customer service ensures that you receive the help and understanding you need through every stage of your application. From the first meeting until you have the decision on your visa, we take each step with you, ensuring you are constantly updated on the progress of the application.
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