UK Skilled Worker Dependent Visa 2026: Navigating the Path for Your Family

What movers on Germany → London report (Eliita's lens):

• Visa and work-rights timing runs parallel to job search
• Budget signal: £689–£1039 move + first-month setup (~£1900/mo rent in London)
• Typical mistake: overpacking
• Second mistake: no week-one checklist

Confirm destination visa rules before you resign or book flights.

To be eligible for the UK Skilled Worker Dependent Visa, applicants must be related to the primary visa holder as a spouse, civil partner, or child under

1. As per GOV.UK, they must provide evidence of the relationship through marriage certificates or birth certificates. Financial requirements demand that the primary visa holder must have sufficient funds to support their dependents without recourse to public funds. This is particularly relevant given the high cost of living in cities like London, where monthly expenses can easily exceed £3,800, according to Numbeo.

1. Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of relationship, financial statements, and any necessary translations.
2. Apply Online: Use the UK Visas and Immigration portal to fill out the application form.
3. Pay Fees: As of 2026, the application fee for dependents mirrors the main applicant's fee, approximately £1,800, including the Immigration Health Surcharge.
4. Biometrics Appointment: Schedule and attend a biometrics appointment at a designated visa application center.
5. Await Decision: Processing times range from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the application complexity and location.

Verified source: English: B1 on CEFR scale (reading, writing, speaking, listening) (source: UK Home Office, https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa).

Applicants must ensure they have the correct documentation, which includes:

• Proof of Relationship: Marriage or civil partnership certificate, or birth certificate for children.
• Financial Evidence: Bank statements showing sufficient funds, typically around £1,270 per dependent.
• Accommodation Details: Evidence of suitable accommodation in the UK.
• Previous Immigration History: Any past visa refusals or immigration offenses must be disclosed. It's crucial to prepare these documents meticulously to avoid delays or rejections.

Verified source: Sponsor: Licensed UK employer with valid Certificate of Sponsorship (source: UK Home Office, https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa).

Verified source: General salary threshold: £38,700/year (or going rate, whichever is higher) (source: UK Home Office, https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa).

A frequent issue applicants face is insufficient documentation, leading to delays or rejections. Case in point: In July 2026, Maria, moving from Glasgow to London, faced a three-month delay because her marriage certificate wasn't properly translated. Ensuring all documents are in English or officially translated is critical. Another common pitfall is underestimating the financial requirements. Applicants should regularly check the GOV.UK website for the latest updates on financial thresholds and documentation requirements.

Verified source: Settlement (ILR): Typically eligible after 5 years continuous residence on eligible route (source: UK Home Office, https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain).

What to do next on Germany → London:

1. Confirm visa subclass and employer sponsorship on the official portal.
2. Budget £689–£1039 move + first-month setup (~£1900/mo rent in London) plus a 20% arrival-week buffer.
3. Book housing only after work-rights timing is clear.
4. Compare steps with international moving checklist.