The UK Skilled Worker visa offers a clear path for professionals to live and work in the UK—and one of its key benefits is that your close family members can join you. This guide explains how to bring your spouse, children, or partner to the UK legally, what documents are needed, and how to increase the chances of approval.
Bring Family to the UK on a Skilled Worker Visa
You can bring the following family members under the Skilled Worker visa scheme:
- Your husband or wife (spouse)
- Your civil partner or unmarried partner (must have lived together for at least 2 years)
- Your children under 18
- Children over 18 if they are already in the UK as dependants
Each family member must apply separately as a dependant.
Requirements for Family Members
Your family members must prove:
- Their relationship to you (e.g., marriage or birth certificate)
- That they will live with you in the UK
- They have enough money to support themselves without public funds
Financial Requirements
You must show funds to support each dependant:
- £285 for your partner
- £315 for one child
- £200 for each additional child
This is in addition to your own funds. These must be in your or your dependent’s bank account for at least 28 days before applying.
Step-by-Step: Bringing Family on a Skilled Worker Visa
Step 1: Secure Your Own Skilled Worker Visa
Before your family can apply, you must be granted a Skilled Worker visa and have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your UK employer.
Step 2: Prepare Your Family’s Documents
Each applicant must submit:
- A valid passport
- Proof of relationship (e.g. marriage or birth certificate)
- Evidence of finances (bank statements or a maintenance letter from your sponsor)
- Your Skilled Worker visa number or CoS
Step 3: Submit Online Applications
Dependants apply online through the UK government website. The application must be submitted outside the UK, unless they are already lawfully present in the UK.
Step 4: Biometrics & Visa Fee Payment
Applicants must book an appointment at a visa application center to submit fingerprints and photos. Visa fees (as of 2025) are:
- £719 per person (3-year visa)
- £1,420 for longer durations
They must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
- £624 per year for adults
- £470 per year for children
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Processing time usually takes 3 weeks. Once approved, your family receives a vignette (visa sticker) to enter the UK and then collect their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) after arrival.
Conditions for Dependants in the UK
Your family members can:
- Work (except as professional sportspersons)
- Study
- Travel in and out of the UK
They cannot:
- Claim public funds
- Switch to another visa while in the UK unless meeting all requirements
Avoid Visa Refusal
- Make sure documents are translated to English if necessary
- Bank statements must be recent and meet the 28-day rule
- If you’re relying on your employer to support dependants, get a written letter from them
- Upload clear and legible scans of documents
When Can They Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Your family can apply for ILR after living in the UK for 5 continuous years as dependants. They must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during that time.
Can You Bring Family Later?
Yes, if your visa is valid and you meet the requirements, your family can apply later and join you. Just ensure your visa has enough time left, and you still meet income and accommodation requirements
Bringing your loved ones to the UK is possible through the Skilled Worker route—but every detail counts. Missing documents, unclear proof, or insufficient funds could lead to delays or rejections. Stay organized, and you’ll be reunited with your family in no time.
