Sole Representative Dependant Visa UK

If your partner or parent is already in the UK on a Sole Representative visa, you may be wondering if you can join them. The good news is that the Sole Representative Dependant Visa UK allows close family members to live in the UK alongside the main visa holder. This includes spouses, long-term partners, and children under 18.

Even though the Sole Representative route closed to new applicants in 2022, family members of those already holding this visa can still apply. Whether you’re thinking about applying now or looking ahead to your family’s future in the UK, this guide explains everything you need to know.

Who Can Apply as a Sole Representative Dependant?

Dependants are close family members who rely on the main visa holder for support. Under the Sole Representative visa route, certain relatives can apply to join or stay with the main applicant in the UK.

Eligible Family Members

You can apply as a dependant if you are:

• The spouse or civil partner of the main visa holder
• An unmarried partner, provided you’ve lived together for at least two years
• A child under the age of 18, including biological children, adopted children or stepchildren

To be granted a visa, all dependants must show that their relationship with the main applicant is genuine and ongoing.

Are Sole Representative Dependants Still Accepted in 2025?

Yes. While the Sole Representative visa route itself is closed to new applicants, people who already hold this visa can still extend it or apply for settlement. This means their dependants can continue to apply as long as the main applicant has valid leave in the UK. So if your partner or parent is already in the UK as a Sole Representative of an overseas business, you can still apply to join them.

What Are the Visa Requirements for Sole Representative Dependants?

To qualify as a dependant under this route, you must meet several requirements:

• The main visa holder must have valid permission to stay in the UK under the Sole Representative route
• You must show proof of a genuine relationship (for example, marriage or civil partnership certificates, joint financial documents or photos together)
• If you are applying as a child, you must be under 18 and dependent on your parent. You should not be married, living independently or working
• If the main visa holder is not settled in the UK (i.e., doesn’t have Indefinite Leave to Remain), you may need to prove you have enough maintenance funds to support yourself without relying on public funds

How To Apply for the Sole Representative Dependant Visa

The application process is mostly online and straightforward if you follow the steps carefully.

Application Steps

• Complete the online application through the official UK Government visa service
• Upload your supporting documents or attend an in-person appointment at a visa centre
• Pay the application fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Wait for a decision you’ll usually get a response within 8 weeks, though faster processing is available

Required Documents

You’ll need to prepare the following:

• A valid passport for each applicant
• A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or eVisa status if you’re applying from inside the UK
• Marriage or birth certificates proving your relationship to the main visa holder
• Evidence of your relationship, such as shared bills, photos, tenancy agreements or bank statements
• Proof of funds, such as recent bank statements, if maintenance needs to be shown

Make sure documents are in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Visa Fees, Duration & Processing Time

The cost of applying depends on where you are applying from and how long the visa is for.

Application Type	Fee
Applying from outside the UK	£769
Applying from inside the UK	£885
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	£1,035 per person, per year

Find more about fees on https://www.gov.uk/representative-overseas-business

Your visa will usually be granted for the same length of time as the main visa holder’s permission to stay. If they extend their visa, you’ll need to apply for an extension too.

Processing times can vary. Standard applications usually take up to 8 weeks, but you can pay extra for priority processing, which takes around 5 working days.

Rights and Benefits for Sole Representative Dependants

If your application is approved, you’ll have the right to live in the UK with your family. You’ll also be able to do the following:

You can:

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

You cannot:

• Claim public funds or benefits
• Work as a professional sportsperson or coach

This visa gives you a lot of flexibility to build a life in the UK, whether that means continuing your career, studying, or simply settling in with your family.

Can Sole Representative Dependants Get ILR?

Yes, it is possible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years in the UK as a dependant. ILR allows you to live in the UK permanently without restrictions.

To qualify, you’ll need to show:

• You have lived in the UK continuously and lawfully for at least 5 years
• Your relationship with the main visa holder is still genuine and ongoing
• You meet the English language requirement and pass the Life in the UK test (adults only)

If you’re applying as a child, ILR may be granted under slightly different rules. In some cases, children may also qualify for British citizenship instead.

FAQs – Sole Representative Dependant Visa UK

Can I bring my family to the UK on a Sole Representative visa?

Yes. If you already hold a valid Sole Representative visa, your spouse, partner and children under 18 can apply to join you in the UK as dependants.

Can Sole Rep dependants work in the UK?

Yes. Dependants can work in most jobs, including full-time or part-time roles, without needing a sponsor. However, some restrictions apply you can’t work as a professional sportsperson or coach.

Do children need to reapply when they turn 18?

Usually, yes. If your child was granted leave as a minor, they may need to submit a new application once they turn 18 if their current visa is about to expire. Their eligibility will depend on whether they’re still dependent and part of the household.

Can dependants apply separately from the main applicant?

Yes. Dependants do not have to apply at the same time as the main visa holder, but the main applicant must have valid leave and be residing in the UK at the time of your application.

If your spouse, civil partner, or parent is in the UK as a Sole Representative, you may have the opportunity to join them under the Sole Representative Dependant Visa UK. This visa offers a clear path for families to stay together while the main applicant continues their business work in the UK.

From full work and study rights to the chance to apply for settlement, this route supports a stable and secure family life in the UK.

Need Help Applying as a Sole Representative Dependant?

We’re here to help. At Solicitors in Manchester, we offer friendly, straightforward immigration advice tailored to your family’s needs. Call us on 0161 464 4140 Chat with us live or request a callback at solicitorsinmanchester.co.uk

Whether you’re just starting your application or dealing with a tricky situation, we’ll guide you every step of the way for free.