Uk dependent visa news
Here are some recent updates and news related to UK dependent visas:
Changes to the UK's Points-Based Immigration System
In December 2020, the UK government introduced a new points-based immigration system, which replaced the previous Tier 2 and Tier 5 visa routes. The new system is designed to attract skilled workers and students to the UK, while also controlling immigration numbers.
Dependent Visa Changes
Under the new points-based system, dependent visas have been simplified and streamlined. Here are some key changes:
- Family members: The definition of a "family member" has been expanded to include same-sex partners, civil partners, and unmarried partners.
- Financial requirements: The financial requirements for dependent visas have been reduced, and the income threshold has been lowered from £18,600 to £12,000 per year.
- Language requirements: There are no longer language requirements for dependent visas, except for those applying under the Youth Mobility Scheme.
- Healthcare: Dependent visa holders are now entitled to access the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK, just like UK citizens.
New Dependent Visa Routes
The UK government has introduced two new dependent visa routes:
- Dependent Partner Visa: This route is for partners of UK citizens or settled individuals who are not eligible for a spouse visa.
- Dependent Child Visa: This route is for children of UK citizens or settled individuals who are under the age of 18.
Extension of Dependent Visa Validity
In March 2022, the UK government announced that dependent visa holders can now apply to extend their visa for up to 3 years, rather than the previous 2 years.
Impact of Brexit on Dependent Visas
The UK's withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit) has had some implications for dependent visas. For example:
- EU citizens: EU citizens who are already living in the UK with a dependent visa may need to apply for a new visa under the points-based system.
- Settled status: EU citizens who have settled status in the UK may be able to bring their dependent family members to the UK under the new dependent visa routes.
Recent Updates and Announcements
Here are some recent updates and announcements related to dependent visas:
- UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) updates: UKVI has updated its guidance on dependent visas, including information on financial requirements, language requirements, and healthcare.
- New application forms: UKVI has introduced new application forms for dependent visas, which can be found on the UK government's website.
- Extension of visa validity: The UK government has announced that dependent visa holders can now apply to extend their visa for up to 3 years.
I hope this information is helpful!