The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa offers a valuable route for family members of individuals with an UK Ancestry Visa to join them in the UK. This visa allows dependent relatives to live, work, and study in the UK for the same duration as the primary visa holder. It is an important option for those who are eligible for an Ancestry Visa and wish to bring their families with them. In this article, we will explore the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa, including its cost, application form, rules, and other essential details.
What is the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa?
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa allows the spouses, partners, children, and sometimes other close relatives of a person with an UK Ancestry Visa to join them in the UK. The UK Ancestry Visa itself is available to Commonwealth citizens who can prove that one of their grandparents was born in the UK. The dependent visa offers an opportunity for family reunification, enabling the family to accompany the primary visa holder and enjoy similar rights, including the ability to live, work, and study.
This visa is especially useful for those who have ancestral connections to the UK and wish to establish their lives there, along with their dependents.
UK Ancestry Dependent Visa Rules
There are a few important UK Ancestry Visa rules that apply to dependents. To qualify for the Ancestry Dependent Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Eligibility: The applicant must be a spouse, civil partner, or child under 18 of a person holding a valid UK Ancestry Visa.
- Proof of Relationship: Dependents must provide documentation proving their relationship to the main visa holder. This can include marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other official documents.
- Visa Duration: The Ancestry Dependent Visa will generally be valid for the same duration as the primary visa holder’s UK Ancestry Visa.
- Work Rights: Dependents are permitted to work in the UK without restrictions. There are no limitations on the type of job that a dependent visa holder can do.
- Study Rights: Dependents are also allowed to study in the UK.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Like other visa applicants, Ancestry Dependent Visa holders must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to the NHS.
UK Ancestry Dependent Visa Application Form
To apply for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa, you will need to complete the official application form. The form is available online on the UK Home Office website. The process for applying is generally as follows:
- Create an Account: The applicant will need to create an account on the UK government’s website to start the application process.
- Complete the Application: The application form requires personal information, details about the primary visa holder’s status, and evidence of the dependent relationship.
- Pay the Fees: As part of the application process, applicants will be required to pay the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Submit Documents: Applicants will need to provide the necessary documents, including proof of relationship, financial documents, and travel details.
Once the application is submitted, the Home Office will review it and make a decision. The process typically includes biometric data collection, such as fingerprints and photographs.
UK Ancestry Dependent Visa Cost
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa cost can vary depending on the length of stay and the number of dependents applying. As of now, the general fee structure is as follows:
- £348 per person for a visa that lasts up to 3 years.
- £500 per person for a visa lasting more than 3 years.
Additionally, applicants will be required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is typically £624 per year for each dependent. The IHS ensures access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and must be paid at the time of application.
It’s important to be aware of these fees when considering the overall UK Ancestry Dependent Visa cost, as the total expenses can add up, particularly for multiple family members.
UK Ancestry Visa and Great Grandparents
A common question is whether a great grandparent qualifies for the UK Ancestry Visa. The eligibility for the Ancestry Visa is based on the applicant proving that one of their grandparents was born in the UK, which includes grandparents from the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.
However, great grandparents do not meet the requirement for the UK Ancestry Visa. The visa specifically requires proof of a grandparent being born in the UK. Therefore, if your only connection is through a great grandparent, you would not be eligible for the UK Ancestry Visa. Only those who can trace their ancestry to a grandparent born in the UK are eligible.
UK Ancestry Visa Decline
It is possible for a UK Ancestry Visa or its dependent visa to be declined. Some common reasons for a visa refusal include:
- Inadequate proof of ancestry: If you cannot prove that one of your grandparents was born in the UK, your visa application may be rejected.
- Insufficient financial support: You must demonstrate that the main visa holder has enough funds to support themselves and their dependents without relying on public funds.
- Incomplete or incorrect documents: Missing documents or errors on the application form can lead to delays or a refusal.
If your UK Ancestry Visa application is declined, you have the option to appeal the decision or reapply with the necessary corrections.
Conclusion
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa provides an important pathway for families to reunite and live together in the UK. If you qualify for an Ancestry Visa and plan to bring your family, it’s important to understand the application process, costs, and requirements to ensure a smooth transition.. From work rights to the necessary documents, this visa ensures dependents can live and work in the UK without restrictions, helping families build a new life together.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa?
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa is available to spouses, civil partners, and children under 18 of a person who holds a valid UK Ancestry Visa.
How much does the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa cost?
The UK Ancestry Dependent Visa fee is generally £348 for a visa lasting up to 3 years and £500 for more than 3 years. The Immigration Health Surcharge must also be paid, which is £624 per year.
Can I work on the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa?
Yes, dependents are allowed to work in any job in the UK. There are no restrictions on employment for Ancestry Dependent Visa holders.
Can I study in the UK on an Ancestry Dependent Visa?
Yes, dependents are allowed to study in the UK without any restrictions.
How long is the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa valid?
The visa is generally valid for the same duration as the primary UK Ancestry Visa holder’s visa.If the primary visa holder has a 5-year visa, the dependent visa will also be valid for 5 years.
Can I apply for the UK Ancestry Dependent Visa if my great grandparent was born in the UK?
No, the UK Ancestry Visa requires evidence that one of your grandparents was born in the UK. A great grandparent does not meet the eligibility criteria.
What happens if my UK Ancestry Dependent Visa application is declined?
If your application is declined, you can either appeal the decision or reapply with additional supporting documents or corrections. It’s important to understand the reason for the refusal to improve your chances of success in a future application.
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