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PBS Dependent Visa: A Comprehensive Guide
For those wishing to accompany or join a family member who is in the UK on a work or study visa under the Points-Based System (PBS), the PBS Dependent Visa[/b] offers a path to enter and live in the UK. This visa allows dependent family members of PBS visa holders to stay in the UK, work, and in some cases, study. In this guide, we will explore the PBS Dependent Visa[/b], who qualifies as a PBS dependent, and how to apply for this visa.

What is the PBS Dependent Visa?
What is PBS Dependent Visa is designed for family members of individuals who are in the UK under a Points-Based System (PBS) visa. The PBS visa categories include various skilled worker visas, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, Tier 2 Visa (now replaced by the Skilled Worker route), and Student Visa (previously Tier 4).
The PBS Dependent Visa[/b] allows the spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, and children of the PBS visa holder to live in the UK for the same duration as the main visa holder. It also provides them with the opportunity to work, study, and live in the UK, depending on their age and circumstances.

Who Qualifies as a PBS Dependent?
To be eligible for the PBS Dependent Visa[/b], applicants must meet specific criteria and fall into one of the following categories:

Spouse or Civil Partner: The legal husband, wife, or civil partner of the PBS visa holder. They must provide evidence of a valid and genuine relationship.
Unmarried Partner: A person in a long-term relationship with the PBS visa holder. The couple must have lived together for at least two years in a relationship akin to marriage or civil partnership.
Children: The dependent child of the PBS visa holder or their partner. Children under 18 years old are considered dependents, and older children may also qualify if they are still financially dependent on the main applicant (such as in the case of older children studying at university).
Other Family Members[/b]: In some cases, other dependent family members, such as elderly parents, may be eligible, although this is less common.

What is the PBS Dependent Visa?
The PBS Dependent Visa[/b] allows family members of a PBS visa holder to join them in the UK. Key points about this visa include:

Duration: The length of stay for PBS dependents matches the duration of the main visa holder’s leave to remain in the UK. If the main visa holder extends their visa, the dependent will also need to apply for an extension.
Work and Study: One of the major benefits of the PBS Dependent Visa is the right to work and study. PBS dependents can work in most jobs in the UK, with no restrictions on the type of work, unlike the main PBS visa holder, who might have conditions tied to their employment.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): PBS dependents can apply for ILR (settled status) after completing five years in the UK, provided the main visa holder also qualifies for ILR at the same time. This allows them to live in the UK permanently.
Travel: PBS dependents can travel freely in and out of the UK as long as their visa remains valid.

Requirements for the PBS Dependent Visa
When applying for the PBS Dependent Visa, several key requirements must be met:

Relationship Evidence: If the dependent is a spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner, proof of the relationship must be provided. This can include marriage certificates, joint tenancy agreements, or evidence of shared finances.
Financial Requirement: The main visa holder must show that they have sufficient funds to support their dependents. The financial requirement varies depending on the number of dependents and the type of PBS visa held by the main applicant. Generally, for each dependent, a certain amount of money must be shown as available for support, without recourse to public funds.
Accommodation: Adequate accommodation must be available for the dependent family members, and they must live with the main PBS visa holder.
Immigration Status of Main Visa Holder[/b]: The main visa holder must have valid leave to remain in the UK under one of the PBS categories, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, Health and Care Worker Visa, or Student Visa.
English Language Proficiency[/b]: Unlike the main PBS visa holder, dependents are not required to demonstrate English language proficiency to apply for the visa. However, when applying for ILR, PBS dependents will need to meet the English language requirement.

How to Apply for a PBS Dependent Visa
Applying for a PBS Dependent Visa[/b] involves several steps:

Online Application: The dependent will need to apply online through the UK government’s visa portal. The application process includes submitting detailed information about the relationship to the main visa holder and the applicant’s background.
Biometrics and Visa Application Centre[/b]: After completing the online application, the dependent will need to attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center in their home country. This involves submitting fingerprints and a photograph.
Supporting Documents[/b]: Applicants will need to provide supporting documents, including:

Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, evidence of cohabitation for unmarried partners)
Evidence of financial support (bank statements, sponsor’s employment details)
Passport or travel documents
Proof of accommodation in the UK

Visa Fee: The applicant will also need to pay the visa fee, which varies depending on the length of the visa and the location of the application.
Decision and Travel[/b]: Once the visa is approved, the applicant can travel to the UK. They will receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) upon arrival in the UK.

Benefits of the PBS Dependent Visa

Work and Study: PBS dependents can work in almost any job or field, unlike other dependent visas that may restrict employment. They also have the opportunity to study in the UK’s world-renowned education system.
Path to Settlement[/b]: After five years in the UK, PBS dependents can apply for ILR, allowing them to live permanently in the UK.
Access to Public Services[/b]: PBS dependents may be eligible for certain public services, including healthcare through the NHS, although they must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of the visa application.

Conclusion
The PBS Dependent Visa offers an excellent opportunity for family members to join their loved ones in the UK. With the right to work, study, and the potential to settle permanently, this visa provides dependents with a clear pathway to building a life in the UK alongside their family. Understanding the eligibility requirements, financial conditions, and application process is essential for a successful visa application.
For those considering applying, seeking professional legal advice can help ensure the application is completed correctly, increasing the likelihood of success and a smooth transition to life in the UK.