Dependent Visa

Visa for Spouses and Children: Reuniting Your Family Abroad

Moving abroad for work or study is a major step, and we understand that bringing your family along is a top priority. Our consultant office specializes in Dependent/Family Visas, ensuring a smooth process for your spouse and children to join you.

1. Spouse Visa/Partner Visa Process

A Spouse Visa, often known as a Dependent Partner Visa or Family Reunion Visa, allows the legally married spouse or de facto partner of the main visa holder to live in the destination country.

Eligibility Highlights (General)

  • Relationship Status: You must be legally married to the main visa applicant (sponsor) or be in a genuine and stable de facto/common-law relationship (requirements for proof vary by country, but typically require shared living for a minimum period, often 6 or 12 months).

  • Sponsor's Status: The sponsor must hold a valid primary visa (e.g., Student Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, etc.) and, in most cases, that visa must be valid for a minimum remaining period (e.g., 6 months).

  • Financial Requirements: The sponsor must prove they have sufficient funds (known as "maintenance funds" or "proof of secured livelihood") to support their spouse and any other dependents without relying on public funds.

  • Intention to Live Together: Both parties must intend to live together for the duration of the visa.

  • Health and Character: Both the applicant and sponsor must generally meet the required health and character criteria.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

The exact process varies by country (e.g., UK, Australia, Canada, etc.) but generally follows these steps:

Step Action Key Details
Step 1 Confirm Eligibility Ensure both you and your spouse/partner meet the legal relationship, financial, and visa requirements.
Step 2 Gather Supporting Documents Collect all mandatory documents, including proof of identity, relationship evidence, and financial statements.
Step 3 Complete Online Application Fill out the appropriate dependent or family reunion visa application form on the official government website.
Step 4 Pay Fees and Surcharge Pay the visa application fee and, if applicable, the mandatory Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) or equivalent medical insurance.
Step 5 Book Biometrics Appointment Schedule an appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country to submit fingerprints and a photograph (biometrics). Some countries offer a mobile ID check app option.
Step 6 Submit Documents Upload your supporting documents online or submit them in person at the VAC appointment.
Step 7 Wait for a Decision Your application will be processed. We advise checking the expected processing times for the country you are applying to.
Step 8 Receive Visa Upon approval, your spouse/partner will be granted the visa, allowing them to travel and join you.

 

Essential Documents for a Spouse Visa

  • Valid Passport (with sufficient validity).

  • Completed Application Form.

  • Proof of Relationship: Marriage Certificate (must be legally recognized) or extensive evidence for a De Facto/Common-law relationship (joint bank statements, utility bills, tenancy agreements, photographs, etc.).

  • Sponsor's Visa/Residence Permit Copy.

  • Sponsor's Financial Evidence: Recent bank statements showing required maintenance funds held for a specified period (e.g., 28 days).

  • Medical and Character Certificates (e.g., Police Clearance Certificate, depending on the country).

2. Child Visa/Dependent Child Visa Process

A Dependent Child Visa allows minor and, in some cases, young adult children to join their parent(s) in the destination country.

Eligibility Highlights (General)

  • Age: The child must typically be under 18 years old and unmarried. Some countries allow children up to 25 years old if they are full-time students and financially dependent on the sponsor.

  • Relationship: The child must be the biological or legally adopted child of the main visa holder (sponsor).

  • Custody: If parents are separated, proof of legal custody or a notarized consent letter from the non-accompanying parent may be required.

  • Financial Support: The sponsor must show additional maintenance funds to support each accompanying child, as required by the destination country's immigration rules.

Key Considerations for Child Applications

  • Application Timing: It is often simplest to apply for the child’s visa at the same time as the main applicant or the dependent spouse to form a "Family Group" application.

  • Education: Children of a certain age will be required to register for school upon arrival.

  • Health and Character: Children over a certain age (often 18) may need to undergo a medical fitness test or provide a Police Clearance Certificate.

Essential Documents for a Child Visa

  • Valid Passport.

  • Completed Application Form.

  • Birth Certificate (to prove relationship with the sponsor).

  • Sponsor's Visa/Residence Permit Copy.

  • Sponsor's Financial Evidence (demonstrating extra funds for the child).

  • Parental Consent (if only one parent is applying with the child).

  • Adoption Papers (if applicable).

  • Current School/Study Certificate (especially for older dependents).

Why Choose Us for Your Family Visa Application?

Navigating the complexities of Dependent Visas can be challenging, with country-specific rules on funds, required documents, and processing times. Our expert consultants offer:

  • ✅ Tailored Document Checklist: We provide a precise list based on your specific country and visa route.

  • ✅ Application Review: We review all forms and supporting evidence to ensure full compliance, minimizing the risk of refusal.

  • ✅ Expert Guidance: Get professional advice on complex issues like proving a de facto relationship or calculating maintenance funds.

Ready to reunite your family? Contact us today for a consultation to begin the visa application for your spouse and children.