The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa is a unique immigration route designed for the family members of individuals who hold a UK Ancestry Visa. This visa allows the dependents of Commonwealth citizens who are eligible for the UK Ancestry Visa to join them in the UK. The UK Ancestry Visa is a visa for individuals with a UK-born grandparent, while the dependent visa enables spouses, children, or other qualifying family members to come and live in the UK.
This article will delve into the key aspects of the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa, including eligibility criteria, the application process, costs, and the UK Ancestry Visa rules. We will also explore common challenges, such as UK Ancestry Visa declined applications and how to handle them, as well as important details such as the UK Ancestry Visa NHS surcharge.
What is the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa?
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa allows the dependents of an individual holding a UK Ancestry Visa to join them in the UK. The main applicant must meet the requirements of the UK Ancestry Visa, which typically includes being a Commonwealth citizen and having a grandparent born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.
If the primary visa holder has been granted the UK Ancestry Visa, their dependents—such as a spouse, children, or sometimes other close family members—may be eligible to apply for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa to come and live with them in the UK. This route is particularly useful for individuals who have ties to the UK through their ancestry but wish to bring their loved ones to live with them.
UK Ancestry Dependent Visa Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria. The eligibility requirements are designed to ensure that only legitimate dependents of individuals holding a UK Ancestry Visa are granted this visa. Key requirements include:
Relationship to the UK Ancestry Visa Holder: The applicant must be the spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or a child under the age of 18 of the primary visa holder. If the applicant is an adult child or another relative, they may qualify if they can demonstrate financial dependency on the main applicant.
Proof of Ancestry: The primary visa holder must provide evidence of their UK ancestry, including documents proving that they have a grandparent born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): As part of the application, dependents must pay the UK Ancestry Visa NHS surcharge. This provides access to the UK National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK. The surcharge amount will vary depending on the length of the visa and the number of applicants.
Financial Support: The primary visa holder must prove they can financially support their dependents during their stay in the UK. This might include showing bank statements, proof of income, or savings to ensure the dependents will not be a burden on public funds.
No Criminal Convictions: Dependents applying for the visa must not have any serious criminal convictions that would disqualify them from obtaining a UK visa.
Application from Inside or Outside the UK: The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa can be applied for both from outside the UK or within the UK if the dependents are already on another valid visa. If applying from outside the UK, the application is made at the UK embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.
The UK Ancestry Visa Rules
The UK Ancestry Visa itself is subject to a few rules that both the primary applicant and their dependents must follow:
- Age Requirement: To qualify for the UK Ancestry Visa, the applicant must be at least 17 years old and be able to prove they are a citizen of a Commonwealth country.
- Employment Requirement: The applicant must show that they can work or intend to seek employment in the UK. The UK Ancestry Visa is a work visa, so applicants must meet this criterion.
- Duration of Stay: The visa is typically granted for 5 years, after which the primary visa holder can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), assuming other requirements are met.
- No Restrictions on Employment: The visa holder and their dependents can work in any occupation, with no restrictions on the type of employment.
UK Ancestry Dependent Visa Application Form
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa application form is an essential document in the process of applying for the visa. The form can be accessed online through the official UK government website. Applicants must ensure they provide accurate and up-to-date information to avoid delays or complications in processing their applications.
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa application form asks for details such as personal information, the relationship to the main applicant, evidence of ancestry, and proof of financial support. All required documents must be uploaded as part of the application process.
UK Ancestry Dependent Visa Cost
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa cost varies depending on several factors, such as the applicant’s country of origin and the length of stay. As of 2023, the application fee for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa is approximately £1,523 for a visa granted for 2.5 years and £3,046 for a visa granted for 5 years. The cost also includes the UK Ancestry Visa NHS surcharge, which is an additional fee that provides access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
It is important to be aware of the most up-to-date visa fees, as they may change over time. The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa cost is subject to change annually, so applicants should check the official UK government website for the latest fees before submitting their application.
What if My UK Ancestry Visa Application Is Declined?
In some cases, a UK Ancestry Visa or UK Ancestry Dependent Visa application may be declined. Common reasons for a decline include failing to meet the relationship requirements, insufficient financial support, or lack of proper documentation to prove ancestry. If your application is rejected, you will receive a notice outlining the reasons for the decision.
If your UK Ancestry Dependent Visa is declined, you may be able to appeal the decision or reapply. It’s recommended to consult with an immigration expert or lawyer to explore your options and improve your chances of success in a subsequent application.
UK Ancestry Visa Great Grandparent
Some applicants may wonder if a great grandparent is eligible to fulfill the ancestry requirement for the UK Ancestry Visa. The rules state that only a grandparent born in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man can be used to prove eligibility for the UK Ancestry Visa. A great grandparent does not count as a qualifying ancestor for this visa.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa?
The dependents of a UK Ancestry Visa holder, such as a spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, and children under 18, are eligible to apply for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa.
Can my children apply for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa?
Yes, children under the age of 18 are eligible to apply for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa if they are the dependent children of the primary applicant.
How long does the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa last?
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa typically lasts for the same length of time as the primary visa holder’s visa, which is usually 5 years. After this period, dependents can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Can dependents work in the UK on the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa?
Yes, dependents holding a UK Ancestry Dependent Visa can work in the UK without restrictions.
What happens if my UK Ancestry Dependent Visa application is declined?
If your application is declined, you can appeal the decision or reapply. It’s important to review the reasons for the refusal and ensure you meet all the requirements before submitting a new application.
How much is the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa fee?
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa fee typically ranges from £1,523 for a 2.5-year visa to £3,046 for a 5-year visa. Additional costs such as the UK Ancestry Visa NHS surcharge also apply.
Can a great grandparent be used to prove eligibility for the UK Ancestry Visa?
No, only a grandparent (not a great grandparent) born in the UK or a qualifying country can be used to prove eligibility for the UK Ancestry Visa.
Conclusion
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa is an essential visa option for families of individuals who qualify for the UK Ancestry Visa. It allows dependents to join their loved ones in the UK, where they can live, work, and study. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and cost associated with this visa, families can make informed decisions when applying to reunite in the UK. With the right preparation and documentation, the application process can be straightforward, ensuring that family members can enjoy life together in the UK.
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