How to Extend or Renew a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa

The Skilled Worker Dependent visa allows the partner and children of a Skilled Worker visa holder to live in the UK. Just like the main applicant, dependents must keep their immigration status valid and, in most cases, will need to extend or renew their visa before it expires. The process requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and a clear understanding of the Home Office requirements. 

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to extend or renew a Skilled Worker Dependent visa successfully.

1. Understand When an Extension Is Required:

A Skilled Worker Dependent visa is granted in line with the main Skilled Worker’s visa. This means that if the main visa holder extends their visa, dependents must also extend theirs to remain lawfully in the UK. Dependents may also need to apply for an extension if:

• Their current visa is close to expiry.

• They were previously granted a shorter visa (for example, if they joined the main applicant later).

• The main Skilled Worker changes employer or job role and receives a new Certificate of Sponsorship.

It is important to apply for an extension before the current visa expires. Overstaying, even by a few days, can have serious immigration consequences.

2. Check Eligibility Requirements:

To extend or renew a Skilled Worker Dependent visa, applicants must continue to meet the eligibility criteria, which generally include:

• Relationship requirements: Partners must still be in a genuine and subsisting relationship with the Skilled Worker, and children must remain financially dependent and not lead an independent life.

• Financial requirements: If the Skilled Worker’s employer has not certified maintenance, dependents must show proof of sufficient funds. The requirement is £285 for a partner, £315 for the first child, and £200 for each additional child, held for at least 28 consecutive days.

• Residency requirements: Dependents must not have breached immigration conditions during their stay.

3. Prepare the Required Documents:

Applicants must provide a set of documents to support their extension application. The exact documents may vary depending on individual circumstances, but commonly required items include:

• Valid passports or travel documents for all applicants.

• Biometric information (fingerprints and photographs).

• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or evidence of cohabitation for unmarried partners; birth certificates for children).

• Proof of address and cohabitation (utility bills, tenancy agreements, joint bank statements).

• Financial evidence if required (bank statements or sponsor’s certification of maintenance).

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment confirmation.

Where documents are not in English or Welsh, certified translations must be provided.

4. Complete the Online Application:

The application to extend or renew a Skilled Worker Dependent visa must be completed online through the UK government website. Each dependent must submit an individual application, although family members can apply at the same time. The process includes:

• Filling in the online application form.

• Paying the application fee (currently the same as the initial dependent visa application fee).

• Paying the Immigration Health Surcharge for each applicant.

• Booking and attending a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services centre.

5. Submit Biometrics and Supporting Documents:

After completing the online application and making payments, dependents must provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) at a UKVCAS centre. Applicants will also need to upload or provide their supporting documents. It is essential to ensure all documents are clear, consistent, and complete.

6. Wait for a Decision:

Processing times for Skilled Worker Dependent visa extensions can vary. The standard processing time is usually up to 8 weeks for applications made from within the UK. However, faster services, such as the priority (5 working days) or super-priority (next working day) services, may be available for an additional fee.

During this period, applicants should avoid international travel, as leaving the UK before a decision is made may result in the application being withdrawn automatically.

7. Plan for the Future:

Extending a Skilled Worker Dependent visa is not only about maintaining lawful status in the UK—it also builds towards settlement. Time spent on a dependent visa counts towards eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Generally, dependents can apply for ILR after living in the UK for five continuous years as dependents of a Skilled Worker, provided they continue to meet the relationship and residency requirements.

Conclusion:

Extending or renewing a Skilled Worker Dependent visa is a critical step for families wishing to remain in the UK alongside the main visa holder. The process involves checking eligibility, preparing accurate documentation, submitting the online application, paying the relevant fees, and attending biometric appointments. By applying early, ensuring all documents are correct, and meeting the financial and relationship requirements, dependents can avoid delays or refusals.

For families with complex circumstances—such as blended households, previous refusals, or changes in employment for the Skilled Worker—seeking professional immigration advice may provide added reassurance and improve the chances of a smooth and successful outcome.