Requirements for a UK dependant visa
You can apply for a UK tier 2 dependent visa for your child as long as you’re living in the UK, but the requirements change depending on if you are:
- A British citizen or you have settled status
- An EU national
- A non-EU national
If you’re applying as a single parent, you’ll need to show that you’re the only one responsible for your child’s care (not just legal custody). This makes the application more complicated and you may want seek advice on your dependent visa application.
Settled status or citizen
Having settled status in the UK means you have the right to permanently live in the UK as one of the following:
- A citizen of the UK
- A citizen of Ireland living in the UK
- An EU national with permanent residency in the UK
- A non-EU national living in the UK with indefinite leave to remain (ILR)
You’re also considered settled if you have “right of abode” in the UK.
Non-EU nationals
If you’re a non-EU national and want to apply for a dependant visa for your child, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
- Your child is under 18
- Your child was born outside the UK
- You (or the other parent) have a visa that allows you to live in the UK
- You meet the financial maintenance requirement
EU nationals
If one or both parents is an EU national, your child can come to the UK on an EEA family permit. They will need to be under 18 and born outside the UK, and you’ll need to show you are exercising your EU treaty rights to qualify.
Tier 2 visa holders
A Tier 2 dependant visa can also be granted to children coming to live with you when you’re working in the UK on a Tier 2 work visa. Your children are included as dependants as part of your visa application.