UK Child & Dependant Visa Help

Who these routes are for

Children can often apply as dependants of a parent who holds, or is applying for, permission on a family or work route. Partners of people on work and study routes may also qualify as dependants where the route allows it.

Main requirements

• The relationship between the child and the parent in the UK
• The child's age and whether they live independently
• Who has responsibility for the child's upbringing
• Consent of the other parent, where relevant
• Maintenance and accommodation
• The status of the parent or main applicant

Documents commonly required

• Birth or adoption certificate
• Passports and identity documents
• Evidence of the parent's status in the UK
• Custody or responsibility documents
• Financial and accommodation evidence

Application process

Most applications are made online, followed by an identity and biometrics step. What happens in between depends on where you apply from and what the route requires.

• Confirm the route that fits your circumstances
• Check each requirement against your situation
• Gather and organise the supporting documents
• Complete the online application and pay the relevant fees
• Attend a biometrics appointment or complete identity checks
• Wait for the decision and respond to any request for more information

Applying from Albania or Kosovo

Applicants based in Albania or Kosovo can get help preparing the application and understanding the evidence relevant to their circumstances.

Documents not issued in English may need to meet applicable translation requirements.

Where a child is applying without both parents, expect to provide clear evidence of who is responsible for the child.

Already in the UK?

Children born in the UK, or already here with permission, may need their own application to stay in line with their parents. A child born in the UK is not automatically British.

Previous refusal or immigration problem?

If an earlier application was refused, or there is a problem in your immigration history, it is important to understand the reasons given before deciding what to do next.

A new application that does not deal with those reasons is likely to meet the same result.