Dr Mohammad Shafiq
The UK offers various visa categories to accommodate different professional and personal circumstances. Navigating the UK immigration system can sometimes be difficult. This is especially true for those transitioning from a dependent visa to a work permit. From this article, you will learn how to convert dependent visa to work permit in UK.
A dependent visa in the UK allows family members of individuals holding certain types of visas to join them. The main visa holder (the sponsor) lives and works or studies in the UK. The purpose of this visa category is to keep family unity. Generally, the UK offers these types of dependent visas:
Conditions:
You must prove your relationship with the main visa holder. Also, you have to show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself. Certain types of dependent visas might require proof of English language proficiency.
Limitations:
Dependent visa holders are not allowed to get public funds. The dependent visa status is typically tied to the main visa holder. If the main visa holder's circumstances change, it will also affect the dependent visa holder.
The UK immigration system has significantly changed in recent years. Some of the recent major changes in UK immigration laws are:
All these new rules will have several impacts on Dependent visa holders. For example, they will retain the right to work in the UK without restrictions. However, they must meet updated financial requirements as well. Dependents will also have access to healthcare and education services.
The new changes in UK Immigration also affect the conversion process. For example, the expanded list of eligible occupations has made switching to a skilled worker visa easier.
There are some specific criteria for converting to a work permit from a dependent visa. You must meet these requirements when applying for a conversion. The general conditions for dependent visa holders are presented below.
Besides these, some other facts can affect the conversion process. For instance, you must be under 18 years old at the time of application. If you are dependent on your parents, then both of them must be in the UK. Also, your relationship must be legally recognized for seeking a spouse or partner visa.
Here's a quick step-by-step process on how to convert a dependent visa to a work visa in the UK.
You have to get a job offer from a UK employer. The job must meet the minimum salary and fall within the eligible occupation list.
Complete the work visa application form on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Provide all required information accurately to avoid any delays in processing your application.
Gather all necessary papers to support your application. Make sure they are authentic and are as required.
Submit your application online along with the required fee. Make sure that all necessary documents are included before submitting. You will get a confirmation mail once your application is successfully completed.
Provide your biometric information (photo and fingerprints) at UKVCAS. This process is mandatory for all visa and citizenship applications in the UK.
The home office will process your application and inform you about the decision. Processing times may vary depending on the type of application and current workload.
Generally, these documents are required while processing from a dependent visa to a work permit:
The standard processing time takes up to 8 weeks. It's counted from the date you submitted the application. For priority processing, approximately five working days will do for an additional fee of £500. There is also super priority processing. This can be done the next working day for a further fee of £1,000.
The UK offers a variety of work permits and visas. Here is an overview of main work visas, suitable work permits, and sector-specific work permits.
These visas are considered the major work visas in the UK. Those are also very popular with foreign workers and employees.
As there are several options, you may choose which work permit suits you. Depending on your situation, you may like to go with-
In the UK, obtaining a work permit can be a challenging procedure. Here are some key challenges and their practical solutions:
You must have specific eligibility for the chosen visa category. This could include job offer requirements, salary thresholds, and skill levels. So, first, understand the requirements. Check on official websites or consult with an immigration advisor to verify your eligibility.
If you're unable to provide the required documents, then it's a problem. You must collect and submit all the correct documentation in the required format. Verify your document requirements and keep all documents organized and accessible.
You may confused about going through the many processes and communicating with different authorities. Visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website for guidance and updates.
To avoid any kind of legal issues, always keep up with the recent changes and updates. Fulfil all the requirements that you have to with proper documents. Whether it's for proof of funds, language test, or other purposes.
Converting a dependent visa to a work permit in the UK involves various financial considerations. Understanding individuals' employment rights is also important.
You have to have a job offer that fulfils the minimum annual salary of £38,700. The 'going rate' for the specific occupation is also considered. UK visa authority accepts, whichever is higher.
Also, you must prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself. This generally requires at least £1,270 in savings. Additionally, there will be application fees, typically ranging £610- £1,408. Applicants must pay the IHS as well, which is £624 per year.
The UK maintains a safe and fair working environment for its workers. Everyone working in the UK receives at least the National Minimum Wage. Also, as a worker, you must obey legal employment rules.
After changing jobs, you must obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship from the new employer. Once you get the CoS, apply to update your visa.
Though skilled worker visa holders cannot start businesses. But, switching to a Tier 1 visa allows business activities. Dependents can access public education, but work permit holders are generally not eligible.
Usually, navigating the complexities of the UK immigration system requires professional guidance. It is much better to seek advice because complex visa categories often require specialized knowledge and extensive documentation.
BHE UNI consults any particular immigration or visa processing problems. We offer a wide range of support for:
Yes, dependents of certain visa holders in the UK are allowed to work.
Individuals on visitor visas or short-term visas cannot switch to a work visa from a dependent visa.
Dependents in the UK can generally work full-time without any restrictions on the number of hours.
Undergraduate students are not permitted to bring dependents to the UK.
Sometimes, a student dependent may be able to switch to a Tier 2 visa.
Yes, before your studies expire, you will have the opportunity to convert your student visa to a work visa.
UK visa conversion may be complex. However, from the above article, you learned how to convert dependent visa to work permit in UK. There are many barriers to this conversion. Following steps properly and seeking guidance from experts could reduce its complexity.
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