Do you qualify?
- You hold, or are applying for, a Skilled Worker visa in a job that allows dependants
- Your partner is your spouse or civil partner, or you’ve lived together for at least two years
- Your children are under 18, or are already in the UK as your dependants
- You can show the required funds, unless an exemption applies
Documents you'll need
| Document | Details | Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Passports | For each family member | Required |
| Relationship evidence | Marriage or civil partnership certificate, or evidence of two years living together | Required |
| Birth certificates | For each child, showing both parents | Required |
| Financial evidence | Bank statements, unless you’re exempt | Required |
| Consent letter | If a child is applying and the other parent isn’t | Helpful |
| Application forms | Completed and checked by us before submission | We prepare |
We give you a full checklist for your circumstances at your consultation.
Which Skilled Workers can bring family?
It depends on your job and your visa history:
- Jobs at degree level (RQF 6) and above: you can usually bring your partner and children
- Jobs below degree level, where you were granted your visa before 22 July 2025 and have had no gap since: your family is protected and can usually join or stay with you
- Jobs below degree level sponsored on or after 22 July 2025, under the shortage lists: new dependants aren’t allowed
- Care workers and senior care workers: separate rules apply, based on 11 March 2024. See our care worker dependant visa page
Money you need to show
Each dependant usually needs to show they have enough money to support themselves. You don’t need to show this if you’ve been in the UK for at least 12 months when you apply, or if your sponsor certifies maintenance on your Certificate of Sponsorship. We tell you which applies before you gather bank statements.
Applying, extending and settling together
Your family can apply with you or join you later. Each person makes their own application and pays their own visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge. When you extend, they usually extend at the same time, and they can often apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain alongside you.
Dependants can work in almost any job and study without needing a separate visa.
If you’re a chef or hospitality worker
If you were sponsored before 22 July 2025, your family’s rights are protected even though your job can no longer be newly sponsored. See chef and restaurant worker visa extensions.
How we help
- Check your eligibility and confirm the right route at your consultation
- Give you a personalised document checklist
- Prepare and complete your application forms
- Review all evidence against the current rules before submission
- Keep you updated until you have a decision
Fees and timescales
Our fee is agreed before we start. See our fees. Government fees are paid separately, and are listed on GOV.UK.
Common questions
Can I bring my wife on a Skilled Worker visa?
Usually yes, if your job is at degree level, or if you were granted your visa in a lower-skilled job before 22 July 2025. Care workers have different rules.
Can my partner work in the UK?
Yes. Dependants of Skilled Workers can work in almost any job without a sponsor.
Can my family join me later?
Yes, they can apply after you’ve arrived, as long as your job still allows dependants when they apply.