Guide on Applying for UK Spouse Visa with Child Dependant
Applying for a UK Spouse Visa can be complex, especially when you have child dependants. This guide will walk you through the essential requirements, necessary documents, and step-by-step application process to ensure a smooth and successful application.
If you need help with your visa application, schedule a FREE consultation with us here.
What is a UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa allows a non-British partner to live in the UK with their British or settled spouse. If you have children from a previous relationship or with your UK-based partner, you may also apply to bring them as dependants.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a UK Spouse Visa with child dependants, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Relationship Requirements
You must be legally married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status (Indefinite Leave to Remain or EU Settled Status).
You and your partner must have met in person and intend to live together permanently in the UK.
Your relationship must be genuine and subsisting.
2. Financial Requirements
The sponsor (your UK-based partner) must demonstrate a stable income to support you and any dependants. The minimum income thresholds are:
£29,000 per year for the spouse/partner.
An additional £3,800 for the first child.
An additional £2,400 for each additional child.
Alternatively, if your partner does not meet the income threshold, they may use savings, self-employment income, or pension funds to meet the financial requirements.
3. Accommodation Requirement
You must prove that there is adequate accommodation available for you and your dependants without relying on public funds. The accommodation must not be overcrowded or in violation of public health regulations.
4. English Language Requirement
As the spouse, you must demonstrate your proficiency in English by either:
Passing an approved English language test at A1 level or higher.
Holding a degree that was taught in English.
Being from a majority English-speaking country (such as the USA, Australia, or Canada).
5. Child Dependants Requirements
Children applying as dependants must:
Be under 18 years old at the time of application.
Not be married or in a civil partnership.
Be financially dependant on the parent(s) applying for the visa.
Have no separate, independant family unit.
Required Documents
To apply for a UK Spouse Visa with child dependants, you need to prepare the following documents:
For the Main Applicant (Spouse)
Valid passport
Marriage certificate or proof of civil partnership
Proof of relationship (photos, communication records, joint financial commitments)
Evidence of accommodation in the UK (tenancy agreement, property ownership documents)
Proof of meeting the financial requirement (payslips, bank statements, employment contract, tax returns)
English language test certificate
Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if required by your country of residence)
For Child Dependants
Valid passports
Birth certificates
Proof of relationship with the parent (e.g., school records, medical records, custody agreements if applicable)
Evidence of financial dependency (bank statements, school fees, etc.)
Parental consent (if one parent is not applying or is not in the UK)
Application Process
Step 1: Online Application
Complete the online application form (Appendix FM) on the UK government website. You will need to create an account and provide details about yourself, your spouse, and your children.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Fees
The visa fees (as of 2025) are:
£1,846 for the spouse visa application outside the UK.
£1,048 for each child dependant.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £624 per year per applicant.
Step 3: Book a Biometric Appointment
You and your child dependants must attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center in your country. Your fingerprints and photographs will be taken as part of the process.
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
Upload your supporting documents online or submit them at the visa application center, depending on the instructions provided.
Step 5: Attend an Interview (if required)
In some cases, the UK Home Office may request an interview to assess the genuineness of your relationship.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
Processing times vary but generally take 12-24 weeks. Priority services may be available for faster processing.
After Receiving the Visa
1. Traveling to the UK
Once your visa is granted, you must enter the UK within the validity period stated on your visa vignette.
2. Collecting Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
There are no BRP anymore; upon arrival, you need to register your details online.
3. Applying for Further Leave to Remain (FLR)
The initial visa is valid for 2.5 years. You must apply for an extension (FLR-M) before it expires to continue living in the UK.
4. Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After 5 years, you may apply for ILR, allowing you to stay in the UK permanently.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
Visa applications can be refused due to:
Insufficient financial evidence.
Missing or incorrect documents.
Failure to meet the English language requirement.
Lack of proof of a genuine relationship.
Inadequate accommodation arrangements.
To avoid rejection, double-check all documents and ensure they meet the UKVI requirements.
Applying for a UK Spouse Visa with child dependants requires careful preparation and attention to detail. By understanding the requirements and following the correct steps, you can increase your chances of a successful application. If you need assistance, consider seeking professional immigration advice or using a visa consultancy service.
For more information and updates, visit the UK Home Office website or consult a legal expert in immigration matters.
If you need help with your visa application, schedule a FREE consultation with us here.
