If you are moving to the UK on a work or study visa, one of your biggest concerns may be whether your family can join you – and if they can work once they arrive. Dependants often want to contribute financially, build careers or gain experience while living in the UK. But the rules can be complex, and they differ depending on the type of visa the main applicant holds.
This article explains who qualifies as a dependant, what rights they have to work in the UK and recent policy changes that could affect your family’s options.
Who qualifies as a dependant?
Under UK immigration rules, a dependant is normally defined as a partner or child of the main visa holder. This includes:
- A husband, wife or civil partner
- An unmarried partner, if you have lived together for at least two years
- Children under the age of 18
- Children over 18, if they are already in the UK as dependants
Whether dependants can come to the UK depends on the main visa route. Most work visa holders, such as Skilled Worker migrants, can bring dependants. Student visa holders may also bring dependants in some circumstances, though this has recently been restricted.
General work rights for dependants
In many cases, dependants are allowed to work in the UK. This typically includes full-time or part-time employment, self-employment, voluntary roles and even setting up their own business.
There are, however, important exceptions. Dependants cannot work as professional sportspersons or coaches. This restriction is written into the conditions of stay and applies across most visa types.
It is also vital to note that dependant work rights are not the same for every visa route. While Skilled Worker dependants usually have wide freedom to work, dependants of student visa holders face tighter rules. Checking the visa conditions is essential before taking up employment.
Dependants of Skilled Worker, Health & Care and Student visa holders
Dependants of Skilled Worker visa holders generally enjoy broad rights to work. They can take up full-time or part-time employment, be self-employed, volunteer or even start a business. The only restrictions are on professional sport and coaching roles. For many families, this makes the Skilled Worker route an attractive option, as it enables both partners to build careers in the UK.
For dependants of student visa holders, the picture is more mixed. Dependants are only permitted if the main applicant is studying a postgraduate course at Level 7 or above, such as a master’s degree, or if they are on a government-sponsored course. Where dependants are allowed, they can usually work without restriction, again with the exception of sport-related roles.
In the health and care sector, recent changes have affected family members. From March 2024, care workers granted visas under the Skilled Worker route have not been able to bring dependants, a policy designed to reduce overall migration numbers. Those already in the UK before this date may still have their family members with them, but new applicants face restrictions.
Recent policy changes impacting dependant rights
In June 2023, the government tightened the rules for student dependants. Since then, most international students have not been able to bring partners or children unless they are studying a research-based postgraduate course. This represents a significant shift and affects thousands of families each year.
Care worker visas have also seen restrictions, with dependants no longer permitted for most new applicants. These changes are part of a wider government policy to reduce net migration, but they have raised concerns about the impact on families and the UK workforce.
Checking your visa conditions
The best way to confirm whether you can work as a dependant is to check the conditions printed on your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or visa vignette. Employers are required to conduct Right to Work checks, so being clear about your permissions is essential before starting a job.
If your visa states that work is allowed, you can take employment freely within the permitted scope. If you are unsure or believe there may be errors on your visa, it is sensible to seek legal advice.
Book a free consultation
For many families, dependant visas provide the flexibility for both partners to live and work in the UK. Skilled Worker dependants in particular have almost full access to the labour market, while student dependants enjoy fewer rights and are now limited to specific courses.
Given the policy changes in recent years, it is more important than ever to check the latest rules before making plans. Speaking with an immigration solicitor can provide clarity on your family’s options and help you make the right decisions.
At Osbourne Pinner Solicitors, we specialise in UK immigration law and can advise both main applicants and their dependants on work rights, applications and compliance. Start with a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your circumstances. You can visit us in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus or Manchester. Alternatively, we can speak on video call if that’s easier.
To book your consultation, use the form below, call 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected].
