Expansion Worker Dependant Visa UK – Full Guide (2025)

If you’re preparing to relocate to the UK under the Expansion Worker Visa route , it’s natural to want your loved ones by your side. The Expansion Worker Dependant Visa UK is specifically designed to help you bring your family, including your spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or dependent children, to the UK with you. This visa category ensures they can live, study, and in many cases, work in the UK while you carry out your role as part of an expanding business.

Bringing your family overseas is a big step, and understanding the process thoroughly can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to apply for your partner’s visa, seeking clarity on your children’s educational rights in the UK, or wondering about future settlement options like Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

From eligibility requirements and financial thresholds to required documents and dependant visa conditions, we’ll break down the journey into simple, easy to follow steps. At Solicitors in Manchester , we’re here to support families like yours through every stage of the immigration process, offering clear advice, expert guidance, and practical solutions tailored to your unique circumstances.

Who Can Apply as a Dependant?

This visa supports families relocating under the Global Business Mobility programme. If you’re handling a UK expansion, your close relatives can join you.

Eligible Family Members

Your dependants may include:

• Your husband, wife, or civil partner
• An unmarried partner, provided you’ve lived together for at least two years
• Your children under 18, whether biological, adopted, or stepchildren
• Children over 18, but only if they’re already in the UK on your dependant visa

Families are most likely to be successful when relationships are genuine and unpacked in clear documentation.

Requirements for Expansion Worker Dependants

To apply as a dependant under the Expansion Worker Dependant Visa UK, certain conditions must be met:

• You must be directly related to the main visa holder
• Applications can be made at the same time as the principal visa or later
• Your relationship needs strong evidence marriage or birth certificates, council tax letters, joint bank accounts, photos together
• You must provide evidence of financial stability, either your own savings or a sponsor certification
• Children must not be married, in a civil partnership, or living independently

Meeting these standards will improve the chances of a successful outcome.

How to Apply for the Expansion Worker Dependant Visa

The application process is done online and is designed to be straightforward. Here’s your step by step guide.

Application Process

• Apply online through the UKVI portal
• Upload supporting documents, including proof of relationship and identity
• Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Attend a biometric appointment, if required this involves providing fingerprints and a photo
• Wait for a decision, typically within 3 to 8 weeks depending on where you’re applying from

Documents Required

Make sure you have the following documents:

• A valid passport
• Marriage or birth certificates
• Proof of cohabitation (for unmarried partners), such as joint bills or tenancy agreements
• Financial documents, such as bank statements or payslips
• A maintenance certificate if your employer is guaranteeing sufficient funds

Clear and accurate paperwork will help avoid delays and complications.

Visa Fees, Duration & Processing Times

Understanding costs and timeframes will help you plan your family’s move effectively.

• Visa fee: £319 per dependant for visas over 12 months
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per person per year
• Processing time:
  • Outside the UK: around 3 weeks
  • Inside the UK: up to 8 weeks
  • Priority services may speed things up, where available
• Length of stay: Matches the main visa holder’s up to a maximum of two years initially

With that in mind, you’ll be settled and ready for day-to-day life soon after arrival.

What Can Dependants Do on This Visa?

The Expansion Worker Dependant Visa UK unlocks a range of opportunities for your family during your assignment.

Permitted Activities

• Work in most jobs without needing a separate sponsor
• Study at school, college, or university
• Access NHS healthcare after paying the IHS
• Travel freely in and out of the UK

Not Permitted

• Access public funds, like Universal Credit or Housing Benefit
• Perform as a professional sportsperson or coach, unless they gain special authorisation

These rights let your family settle well, pursue their own goals, and enjoy UK life alongside your work responsibilities.

Does This Visa Lead to Settlement?

The Expansion Worker visa and its dependant variant is a temporary route. Unfortunately, time spent on this visa does not count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

If permanent residency is your goal, you and your family will need to switch to a visa that allows settlement, such as:

• Skilled Worker visa

• Spouse visa or Partner visa
• Student visa, if study is part of the plan

Switching must be done before the current visa expires, and all requirements of the new visa must be met.

FAQs – Expansion Worker Dependant Visa UK

Can I bring my family to the UK on the Expansion Worker visa?

Yes. Partners and children can apply to join you as dependants under the Expansion Worker Dependant Visa UK.

Can dependants work in the UK?

Yes. Your family can work in most roles without needing employer sponsorship.

How long can dependants stay in the UK?

They will have leave for the same period that the main visa holder has  typically up to two years initially.

Can this visa lead to permanent residency?

Not directly. Dependants must switch to a settlement-eligible visa category in order to count time towards ILR.

The Expansion Worker Dependant Visa UK is a valuable route that allows your family to be with you in the UK while you help set up a new branch of your employer. They are able to work, study, and enjoy life here even as you concentrate on your business goals. Although it does not lead directly to permanent residency, it offers a strong foundation for switching to a long-term visa in the future.

Bringing your family together makes priorities clear and can smooth your transition into UK life, giving everyone space to adapt and thrive.

Need Help Applying for the Expansion Worker Dependant Visa UK?

At solicitors in Manchester, we specialise in supporting families relocating to the UK under the Expansion Worker Dependant Visa route. Whether you’re joining a partner, spouse, or child working in the UK, our expert immigration team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

We offer:

• Clear, tailored legal advice specific to your situation
• Comprehensive application checks to ensure success
• Fast, friendly, and professional support from start to finish

Call 0161 464 4140 or Book an Appointment for FREE UK immigration advice and full application support.

Let us handle the details so you can focus on settling in and enjoying life with your loved ones in the UK. Start your family’s journey with confidence, trusted immigration support, right here in Manchester, United Kingdom.