UK Child Dependent Visa – Expert Guidance from Staf H Immigration

Bringing your child to join you in the United Kingdom is a big step for any parent living or working in the UK. The Child Dependent Visa is designed to help families stay together, and with the support of Staf H Immigration’s Child Dependent Visa services, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free process. Whether you're a British citizen, on a work visa, or a student, bringing your child as a dependent requires careful planning, eligibility checks, and precise documentation. Our immigration experts are here to help you every step of the way.

What is a Child Dependent Visa?

The Child Dependent Visa allows children under the age of 18 to join a parent or both parents who are legally living in the UK. This visa is commonly used in cases where one or both parents hold a visa or status under routes such as:

Skilled Worker Visa

Student Visa

British Citizenship or Settled Status (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

Partner or Spouse Visa

It is essential that the child is dependent on their parent(s) financially and emotionally and does not lead an independent life.

Eligibility Criteria for a Child Dependent Visa

For a successful application, the child and the parent(s) must meet specific conditions:

Child’s Requirements:

Must be under 18 years old at the time of application

Must not be married, in a civil partnership, or living an independent life

Must intend to live with the parent(s) in the UK

Parent’s Requirements:

Must have valid immigration status or British Citizenship

Must show adequate income and accommodation to support the child

Must have sole responsibility or shared responsibility for the child’s upbringing

At Staf H Immigration, we assess your specific situation to ensure all requirements are satisfied before submission.

Required Documents

To apply for a Child Dependent Visa, you must gather:

Child’s valid passport

Proof of parental status (birth certificate or adoption documents)

Parent’s valid UK immigration status

Proof of relationship between parent and child

Financial documents to show ability to support the child

Accommodation details in the UK

Our immigration specialists will review and prepare your application bundle to meet Home Office standards.

Financial Requirements

Parents must demonstrate that they can support the child without access to public funds. The financial threshold depends on the visa route the parent is under. For example:

A Skilled Worker must meet minimum income levels to sponsor dependants

A student visa holder must show sufficient maintenance funds

We’ll help you calculate the exact amount needed and ensure your bank statements or payslips are in order.

Application Process for Child Dependent Visa

Step 1: Eligibility Check & Document Preparation

We assess your case, collect supporting documents, and confirm visa eligibility.

Step 2: Online Application

The visa application is submitted online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal.

Step 3: Bio-metrics Appointment

The child (and a guardian, if required) must attend a bio-metrics appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.

Step 4: Visa Decision

Standard processing times range from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the country of application.

With Staf H Immigration, you get end-to-end support to avoid delays or refusals.

Duration and Extensions

The Child Dependent Visa is usually granted for the same length as the parent’s visa. For example:

If a parent holds a 5-year Skilled Worker Visa, the child’s visa will match that duration.

Children of settled or British parents may be granted Indefinite Leave to Remain directly.

When it’s time to renew or extend, our team helps you prepare and submit timely applications to maintain lawful status.

Bringing Multiple Children

You can bring more than one child, provided you meet the financial and accommodation requirements for each. The Home Office assesses your capacity to care for all dependants, so documentation must clearly reflect your situation. Our immigration experts can create a tailored application strategy for families with more than one child.

Benefits of the UK Child Dependent Visa

Keep your family united in the UK

Children can study at state or private schools

Access to quality healthcare via the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Opportunity to apply for settlement and citizenship in the future

At Staf H Immigration, we focus on your family’s future by making the visa process smooth and efficient.

Why Choose Staf H Immigration?

With an experienced team and high success rate, Staf H Immigration is a trusted name in UK family immigration services. We provide:

Personalised case assessments

Step-by-step guidance and application support

Document checks and Home Office representation

Fast-track options (where available)

Our goal is to take the stress out of the immigration process so you can focus on building a life in the UK with your family.

Final Thoughts

Reuniting with your child in the UK is a major milestone. The Child Dependent Visa ensures that families can stay together and build a strong future in one of the world’s most stable and opportunity-rich countries. At Staf H Immigration, we take pride in being part of your family’s journey. Whether you’re applying from abroad or inside the UK, our professional immigration consultants will guide you at every step. To get started, visit our Child Dependent Visa UK page and book a consultation today.