Child Dependent Visa

Child Dependent Visa – Requirements, Documents & Costs

The Child Dependent Visa allows children under 18 to join or remain with their parent(s) in the UK, supporting family unity and ensuring children grow up in a stable, supportive environment. This visa applies to children of British citizens, settled persons, or individuals with limited leave to remain. It can be applied for either inside or outside the UK, depending on the family’s immigration status.

To be eligible, the child must not be married or living independently and must rely financially and emotionally on their parent(s). The parent applying or sponsoring must demonstrate sole or joint responsibility for the child, and show that there is adequate accommodation and financial means to support the child without claiming public funds. This visa is typically granted in line with the parent’s immigration status and can lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) over time.

Supporting documents are critical for a successful application. These include the child’s full birth certificate, proof of the parent’s legal immigration status, evidence of dependency (such as school records or letters from doctors), and documents showing cohabitation or ongoing involvement in the child’s life. In complex situations—such as separated parents or children born abroad—clear and consistent documentation becomes even more important.

At Redhill Solicitors, we provide comprehensive guidance to help families submit well-prepared applications that minimise delays and reduce the risk of refusal. We ensure that every aspect of your child’s welfare, legal status, and future in the UK is clearly represented. If you’re considering applying for a Child Dependent Visa or want to bring your child to join you in the UK, contact us today for expert, compassionate legal support.

Key requirements:

The child must be under 18 and not living independently (e.g., not married or in full-time employment).
At least one parent must be in the UK or applying for a visa at the same time.
The family must have adequate accommodation and meet financial requirements.
The child must intend to live with the parent(s) permanently in the UK.

Costs:

Application fee: approx. £1,846 (outside the UK) or £1,048 (inside the UK).
Immigration Health Surcharge: approx. £1,560.

Main documents needed:

Valid passport of the child.
Birth certificate or adoption order proving parent-child relationship.
Proof of parent’s UK immigration status or pending visa application.
Evidence of financial support and accommodation.
Custody/legal guardianship documents (if applicable).

Child Dependant Visa – Do’s and Don’ts

You should Do:

Do ensure the child is under 18 at the time of application, unless they are already in the UK as your dependant and applying for an extension or settlement.
Do prove the child is not living an independent life—they must not be married, in a civil partnership, or financially independent.
Do show both legal and practical parental responsibility. The sponsoring parent must provide evidence they have sole or joint care of the child.
Do demonstrate adequate accommodation and financial ability to support the child without recourse to public funds (if applicable).
Do include the child in the main application (where possible) or apply for them as a dependant under the relevant route (e.g. Skilled Worker, Partner, or ILR application).

You Should Not Do:

Don’t apply without linking the child’s visa to a qualifying parent. A child cannot be granted a dependant visa unless one or both parents are applying or already have immigration status.
Don’t submit the application without full custody evidence if one parent remains overseas or is not involved in the child’s care—this is a common reason for refusals.
Don’t assume adoption is automatically accepted—international adoptions must meet strict legal requirements and recognition under UK immigration law.
Don’t delay applications for children in the UK unlawfully. Waiting too long can lead to status complications—timely legal advice is crucial.
Don’t underestimate the importance of relationship evidence, especially in blended or separated families—this includes school letters, tenancy documents, and shared financial responsibility.

Child Dependant Visa – Tips & Tricks

Provide a full birth certificate naming both parents—it is a core document. If unavailable, include alternative legal documents and explain in a cover letter.
Include a written statement explaining who the child lives with, who provides care, and how the family is supported—especially for sole applicants.
If the child is in education, include school letters, progress reports, and attendance records as evidence of residence and integration.
For children already in the UK, always apply for extensions or settlement before their current leave expires to avoid unlawful stay issues.
Highlight the best interests of the child. This is a key consideration under Section 55 of the Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009, particularly in discretionary or human rights-based applications..

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