UK Dependent Visa: 2024 New Rules Explained

In early 2024, the then-conservative government implemented notable changes to the UK dependent visa rules, affecting the Student visa and Health and Care Worker visa routes.

From 1 January 2024, most students on non-research postgraduate courses can no longer bring dependents, with exceptions only for those studying PhD-level research. In March, further changes barred care workers and senior care workers from sponsoring dependents on the Health and Care Worker Visa. These measures were part of the government’s efforts to reduce net migration and alleviate pressure on public services.

The new rules have led to significant declines in visa applications, particularly in sectors reliant on overseas recruitment, sparking concerns over potential impacts on university funding and staffing in the social care sector.

In this guide, we update on the changes to help visa applicants and holders understand the new rules impacting dependents and their options to come to the UK. Since UK immigration policies can change rapidly, being aware of the latest regulations helps individuals and families make informed decisions about their future in the UK.

 

Section A: Understanding the UK Dependent Visa

 

The dependent visa is a specific type of visa that allows the family members of a primary visa holder to reside in the UK. Dependents can include spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, children under the age of 18, and, in some cases, adult relatives who are financially dependent on the primary visa holder.

This visa grants dependents the right to live, work and study in the country so that families can maintain their relationships and support each other during their time in the UK. It is particularly important for those who may need the support of their family while adjusting to life in a new country or while their primary visa holder engages in work or studies.

Dependent visas are, however, only available to primary visa holders in certain visa categories, and the dependent family member must meet specific eligibility criteria.

The dependent visa criteria vary based on the primary visa type, so it’s important applicants review the specific requirements related to their situation. However, the following are general criteria that will need to be met:

 

1. Relationship to the Primary Visa Holder

Dependents must be related to the primary visa holder, typically as a spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or child. Adult relatives may also be considered if they are financially dependent on the primary visa holder.

 

2. Financial Requirements

The primary visa holder is usually required to demonstrate that they can financially support their dependents without recourse to public funds. This may involve showing evidence of a minimum income threshold or sufficient savings.

 

3. Proof of Genuine Relationship

For spouses or partners, documentation may be needed to prove the authenticity of the relationship, such as marriage certificates, joint bank statements, or evidence of cohabitation.

 

4. Age Restrictions

Dependents must be under the age of 18 at the time of application, with specific considerations for children who turn 18 while in the UK.

 

5. Primary Visa Holder Visa Category

The primary visa holder must have permission to remain in the UK under a visa category that permits dependents to accompany them.

 

Table: UK Visa Categories Allowing Dependents

Visa Category	Key Requirements	Rights of Dependents
Skilled Worker Visa	Sufficient funds to support dependents	Can live, work, and study without restrictions
Health and Care Worker Visa (Except SOC Codes 6135 and 6136)	Job offer in eligible health/care role, financial support	Can live, work, and study without restrictions
Student Visa (Government-sponsored students; Postgraduate research students)	Research-based courses or government sponsorship	Can live, work, and study if eligible
Graduate Visa	Must have resided in the UK during studies	Can work and study in the UK
Innovator Founder Visa	Sufficient funds to support dependents	Can live, work, and study without restrictions
Global Talent Visa	Endorsement as leader or emerging leader in a field	Can live, work, and study without restrictions
High Potential Individual Visa	Meet financial requirements	Can live, work, and study without restrictions
Start-up Visa	Sufficient funds to support dependents	Can live, work, and study without restrictions
Temporary Worker (T5)	Meet financial requirements	Can work and study, stay duration tied to main visa holder
Ancestry Visa	Financial support proof required	Can live, work, and study without restrictions
Settlement/ILR	Eligibility for settlement based on primary visa holder’s ILR status	Can live, work, and study without restrictions

 

Changes to the dependent visa rules in 2024 saw this list of categories change, affecting Student and Health and Care Worker routes.

 

Section B: Student Dependent Visa New Rules in 2024

 

The changes to the UK Student visa route took effect on 1 January 2024, directly impacting international students’ ability to bring family members with them as dependents.

Under the new regulations, the majority of international students are no longer able to bring dependents to the UK. This represents a significant shift from previous policies, where most postgraduate students had the ability to bring family members.

 

1. What are the New Rules for Student Dependents

 

Only undergraduate students who are on a fully government-sponsored programme lasting more than six months will be allowed to bring dependents to the UK. Students pursuing standard bachelor’s degrees without government sponsorship will not have this option.

Under the new rules, students enrolled in non-research-based master’s courses (RQF level 7) can no longer bring dependents. Previously, all students pursuing a master’s degree could bring their family members to the UK, but now, only those on research-intensive courses will be eligible.

The restrictions apply to courses that begin on or after 1 January 2024. This means that students planning to enrol in courses starting in September 2024 will be subject to the new rules. Those who deferred their studies from September 2023 to September 2024 will also be affected, as the new rules apply to their dependents.

 

2. Exemptions to the Restrictions

 

While the rules have been tightened for most students, there are specific exemptions:

 

a. Government-Sponsored Students

International students who are sponsored by their government to study courses longer than six months will still be able to bring their dependents. This includes scholarships that cover full course fees and maintenance costs.

To qualify as a government-sponsored student, the individual must receive full financial support from a central government department. This sponsorship must cover both tuition fees and living expenses for the entire duration of the course.

 

b. Postgraduate Research Students

Students enrolled in full-time postgraduate research courses, such as PhD programmes (RQF level 8) or other research-based higher degrees, can continue to bring dependents to the UK. This exemption acknowledges the longer duration and research-intensive nature of these courses.

A “research-based degree” is described in the UK Immigration Rules as a postgraduate programme in which the research part exceeds the taught component in terms of student effort. This generally applies to PhDs and other doctoral-level courses where students engage in producing original research.

 

3. Rationale Behind the Changes

 

The objective of the changes was to reduce net migration and address concerns related to public services and social cohesion.

Specifically, according to the Home Office, these changes were part of the government’s strategy to reduce the number of family members accompanying student visa holders. By restricting dependents, the government also aimed to prevent what it considered to be misuse of the student visa route as a backdoor means for families to settle in the UK.

 

4. Deferred Courses and the Graduate Route

 

For students who deferred their place from the 2023 academic year to 2024, the new rules will apply. This means that even if an offer was initially accepted in 2023, dependents will be subject to the updated regulations if the course starts in 2024.

 

5. Changes for Existing Student Visa Dependents

 

The new rules do not affect those who are already in the UK with valid leave as Student visa dependents. If the main student visa holder’s course started before 1 January 2024, their dependents can still apply for extensions. This continuity is maintained even if the main visa holder does not fall into one of the exemptions under the new rules.

 

6. Options for Switching Visa Categories

 

Existing dependents who wish to stay in the UK may consider switching to other visa categories, such as the Skilled Worker visas, where they meet the eligibility criteria. However, parents of Student visa holders are not allowed to switch to the Skilled Worker route from a dependent visa.

 

7. Graduate Visa Transition

 

Student visa holders who switch to the Graduate route after completing their studies can extend the visas of their dependents, provided those dependents were already residing in the UK during the student’s course. However, dependents who did not live in the UK during the student’s studies are not eligible to apply under the Graduate route.

If a student qualifies to bring dependents under the new rules, those dependents can continue to extend their visas in line with the main visa holder’s status. This includes transitioning to the Graduate route, provided the dependents have been living in the UK during the student’s studies.

 

Section C: Health and Care Worker Dependent Visa New Rules in 2024

 

As of 11 March 2024, the UK government has introduced significant changes to the dependent visa rules for certain health and care worker visa holders. These changes primarily target care workers and senior care workers under the Health and Care Visa route, marking a substantial shift in immigration policy to better manage the influx of dependents accompanying visa holders in this sector.

The new rules also impose stricter sponsorship requirements, particularly in England, to ensure that only qualified healthcare providers can sponsor visas.

 

1. Restrictions on Bringing Dependents

From 11 March 2024, care workers and senior care workers under the Health and Care Visa category are no longer permitted to bring dependents (i.e., partners and children) when they migrate to the UK. This change affects new applicants in the care sector, specifically those under the Standard Occupation Codes (SOC) 6145 for care workers and home carers and SOC 6146 for senior care workers.

 

Table: SOC Codes No Longer Allowed to be Accompanied by Dependents

SOC Code	Occupation
6135	Care Workers and Home Carers
6136	Senior Care Workers

 

However, care workers and senior care workers who were already in the UK on this visa before the change can continue to live with their dependents. They are also allowed to extend their visas, change employers within the same occupation code, or apply for settlement without losing the ability to sponsor their existing dependents.

 

2. Impact on Applicants Switching to the Health and Care Visa

For individuals already in the UK on other visa routes that allow dependents, the situation becomes more restrictive if they switch to the Health and Care Visa after 11 March 2024. These individuals will not be able to bring their dependents or continue staying with their existing dependents if they switch into the care worker category.

 

3. New Sponsorship Requirements for Providers

A critical change effective from March 2024 is that only Care Quality Commission (CQC)-registered providers in England will be eligible to sponsor applicants for the Health and Care Visa. This regulation is designed to ensure that only organisations meeting stringent regulatory standards can sponsor healthcare professionals, enhancing the quality and integrity of the care sector.

Employers who are not CQC-registered will no longer be able to sponsor care workers under the Health and Care Visa, thereby limiting the number of sponsors and ensuring higher compliance with care standards.

 

4. Transitional Provisions for Existing Visa Holders

Transitional provisions have been put in place for care workers and senior care workers already sponsored under SOC codes 6145 and 6146. Those who applied for a visa before 11 March 2024 and who were granted permission to stay under the previous rules can still bring their dependents during their sponsorship period. This applies as long as they maintain continuous permission to stay within their designated occupation codes.

Individuals who were already in the UK under the Health and Care Visa route prior to 11 March 2024 but had not yet brought their dependents can still sponsor their family members as long as they do so within the existing sponsorship period. This exception provides some flexibility for those who had planned to bring their families before the rule change.

 

5. Alternative Visa Options

For care workers affected by the new restrictions, alternative visa routes may provide a solution for bringing family members to the UK. One such option is the Skilled Worker Visa, which still allows dependents to accompany the main visa holder. However, to qualify, applicants must meet specific requirements, such as securing a job offer from a licensed employer and meeting the applicable salary thresholds.

Care workers who do not qualify to bring dependents under the new Health and Care Visa rules may consider applying for a Family Visa. This option allows British citizens or settled persons to bring their spouses, partners, and children to the UK, provided they meet the financial requirements, which will increase to £29,000 from 11 April 2024.

 

Section D: Impact of the January 2024 Changes to UK Student Dependent Visa Rules

 

Under the 2024 changes, only students enrolled in specific postgraduate research programmes, such as PhDs, are now permitted to bring dependents (partners and children) to the UK. The reforms were part of a broader strategy to manage net migration and reduce the number of dependents entering the country.

The effects of these changes have been both swift and substantial, leading to notable declines in visa application numbers.

 

1. Drop in Dependents Accompanying Students

The new restrictions on dependents accompanying student visa holders have led to a dramatic decline in the number of dependent visas issued. According to the Home Office, there was an 80% reduction in the number of dependents granted visas to accompany students in the first six months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This equates to only 11,675 sponsored dependent visas being granted from January to June 2024, down from significantly higher numbers the previous year.

 

2. Decline in Overall Student Visa Numbers

The changes have also impacted the number of main student visa applicants. In the first quarter of 2024 (January to March), student visa applications fell by 26,000 compared to the same period in 2023. In the year ending June 2024, a total of 432,225 sponsored study visas were granted to main applicants, marking a 13% decrease from the previous year. This decline is particularly concerning for UK universities, which have increasingly relied on international student fees as a vital source of income.

 

3. Financial Implications for UK Universities

The reduction in international student numbers poses a significant financial challenge for UK universities. In the academic year 2022-2023, international student fees contributed £10.9 billion to UK universities’ income, accounting for a fifth of their total revenue. Unlike domestic undergraduate fees, which are capped, fees for international students are not restricted, making them a critical source of funding. The drop in student visa applications, especially among those who would previously have brought dependents, could negatively affect university budgets, particularly as applications for the upcoming academic year peak between July and September.

 

4. Overall Impact on Migration Figures

The policy change affecting student dependents is just one of several immigration reforms introduced in early 2024. In addition to restricting student dependents, the UK government also increased the salary threshold for skilled worker visas from £26,000 to £38,700 and raised the minimum income requirement for sponsoring a spouse or partner from £18,600 to £29,000. These changes collectively contributed to a reduction in migration numbers across various visa categories.

 

5. Impact on Future Student Enrolment

The full impact of these changes on student enrolments will likely become clearer as visa application numbers peak closer to the start of the academic year in September. However, the early data suggests that the restrictions may have made the UK a less attractive destination for some international students, particularly those who wish to bring family members. This could have lasting implications for the UK’s higher education sector, which has seen steady growth in international enrolments in recent years.

 

Section E: Impact of the March 2024 Changes to Health and Care Worker Dependent Visa Rules

 

On 11 March 2024, the UK government introduced significant changes to the Health and Care Worker Visa, specifically targeting care workers and senior care workers. These changes have sparked widespread concern within the social care sector, with leaders warning of potentially “catastrophic” impacts on workforce numbers.

The new rules, which prohibit overseas care workers from bringing dependents to the UK, are part of a broader immigration policy shift aimed at reducing net migration. Early data indicates that these policy changes are already having a substantial impact on visa applications in the health and social care sector.

 

1. Dramatic Drop in Applications Since March 2024

Following the implementation of the new rules in March 2024, there has been an 83% drop in monthly applications for skilled worker health and care visas. In March 2024 alone, only 2,400 individuals applied for this visa category, compared to 14,300 in March 2023. This significant decline reflects the impact of the new restrictions on dependents, which have deterred potential applicants who previously saw the ability to bring family members as a major incentive.

 

2. Decreasing Numbers of Dependent Visa Applications

In addition to the drop in main visa applicants, the number of applications for dependents under the Health and Care Worker Visa also fell sharply. By March 2024, there were only 13,200 dependent applications compared to 16,700 in the same month in 2023—a 20% decline. This reduction follows the government’s decision to restrict care workers and senior care workers from sponsoring dependents, including spouses and children when they migrate to the UK.

 

3. Impact on the Social Care Sector

The reduction in visa applications comes at a time when the UK’s social care sector is already grappling with severe staffing shortages. In 2023, there were over 152,000 vacancies in social care, prompting the sector to rely heavily on overseas recruitment to fill these gaps. In the previous year, the independent social care sector recruited 70,000 internationally trained workers—a significant increase from 2022. However, the new visa restrictions are likely to exacerbate existing workforce shortages, particularly as international recruits are now less inclined to apply without the option to bring their families.

Even before the March 2024 changes took effect, there was a noticeable decline in health and care visa applications. Data shows that in the six months leading up to the new policy, applications for health and care visas halved compared to the previous six-month period. Between October 2023 and March 2024, there were only 40,800 applications, down 54% from 88,800 in the preceding half-year.

The drop in visa numbers suggests that the policy changes may have deterred potential applicants, particularly those seeking to bring their families. This trend is concerning for a sector that continues to rely on overseas workers to fill critical vacancies.

 

4. Broader Decline in Health and Care Visa Approvals

According to Home Office data, there was an 81% reduction in the number of Health and Care Worker visas issued in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. In the year ending June 2024, a total of 89,095 Health and Care Worker visas were granted to main applicants, reflecting a 26% decrease from the previous year. This decline highlights the broader impact of tightened visa regulations on the sector’s ability to attract international talent.

Despite the overall decline in applications, dependents of health and care workers continued to make up a significant portion of total visa grants. In the year to June 2024, 260,392 visas were issued to work visa dependents. 69% of these were for Health and Care Worker visa dependents. However, the recent policy changes are expected to gradually reduce these numbers as the restrictions fully take effect.

 

5. Long-Term Implications for the UK’s Social Care Sector

Social care leaders have expressed concerns that the new visa rules could lead to a worsening staffing crisis in the sector. The inability of care workers to bring dependents may deter skilled professionals from choosing the UK as a destination, further exacerbating the shortage of qualified care staff. This is especially critical as care services in England continue to face significant challenges in recruiting and retaining workers.

In response to criticism, the government has emphasised its commitment to addressing the skills shortage within the UK. Ministers have pledged to invest in training and upskilling the domestic workforce to reduce reliance on international recruits. Additionally, plans are underway to review labour shortages in key sectors, including social care, with the Migration Advisory Committee tasked with assessing whether further adjustments to visa policies are needed.

 

Section F: Summary

 

In 2024, the UK government introduced significant changes to the dependent visa rules affecting both student visa holders and certain health and care worker visa holders.

Since January 2024, most international students have been no longer permitted to bring dependents, with exemptions only for those on specific postgraduate research programmes. As a result, prospective students must carefully consider these new rules when planning their studies in the UK, particularly if they wish to bring family members along. By staying informed of the current regulations and future updates, students can make well-informed decisions about their educational journey and family arrangements in the UK.

The changes to the student visa-dependent rules introduced in January 2024 have already led to a significant drop in both student and dependent visa applications. While these measures are in line with the UK government’s broader objective of controlling net migration, they also pose challenges for universities heavily reliant on the fees paid by international students. As the UK navigates the balance between reducing immigration and maintaining its status as a global education hub, the impact of these policies will continue to unfold in the coming academic years.

In March 2024, the government also restricted care workers and senior care workers on the Health and Care Worker Visa from bringing dependents. Applications for these visas fell sharply, with an 83% decline reported in March alone compared to the previous year. Social care leaders have expressed concerns about how these restrictions may worsen staffing shortages in a sector already struggling to fill thousands of vacancies.

 

Section G: Need Assistance?

 

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. For expert advice on visa options for dependants or for support with a dependent visa application, contact us.

 

Section H: FAQs

 

What changes were made to the Health and Care Worker Visa rules in March 2024?
From 11 March 2024, care workers and senior care workers are no longer allowed to bring dependants, such as spouses and children, when applying for a Health and Care Worker Visa. This restriction applies to new applicants in these roles. However, those already on this visa route before this date can continue to live with their existing dependents.

 

Why did the UK government implement these changes?
The changes are part of the government’s broader immigration policy aimed at reducing net migration to the UK. By limiting the number of dependants, the government hopes to manage migration numbers and address concerns over public service capacity.

 

Who is affected by the new visa restrictions?
The restrictions primarily impact overseas care workers and senior care workers applying for the Health and Care Worker Visa after 11 March 2024. Those switching to this visa category from other routes will also be unable to bring dependants. However, other healthcare professionals, such as nurses and doctors, are not subject to these restrictions.

 

Can care workers who are already in the UK on this visa still bring their dependents?
Yes, care workers who were already on the Health and Care Worker Visa before 11 March 2024 can continue to sponsor dependants during their current visa period. They can also extend their visas or change employers within the same occupation code without losing this ability.

 

What options do care workers have if they wish to bring their families to the UK?
Care workers who are affected by the new restrictions may consider applying for a Family Visa, provided they meet the financial requirements. Alternatively, they could explore switching to a Skilled Worker Visa, which still allows for dependants, if they meet the eligibility criteria.

 

How has the new policy affected visa application numbers?
The changes have led to a significant decline in visa applications. According to recent figures, applications for Health and Care Worker Visas dropped by 83% in March 2024 compared to March 2023. Additionally, there was a 20% decline in the number of applications for dependants in the same period.

 

What impact will these changes have on the social care sector?
Social care leaders have expressed concern that the new rules could worsen staffing shortages in a sector that heavily relies on overseas workers to fill vacancies. The inability to bring dependants may deter skilled care professionals from choosing the UK as a work destination, potentially leading to a deeper workforce crisis.

 

Are there any exemptions to the new rules?
The new restrictions apply specifically to care workers and senior care workers. Other health professionals, such as those in nursing or specialised medical fields, can still bring dependants under the existing rules.

 

What steps is the UK government taking to address the social care workforce shortage?
The government has pledged to invest in training and upskilling domestic workers to reduce reliance on overseas recruitment. Additionally, the Migration Advisory Committee has been tasked with reviewing labour shortages in key sectors to assess whether further adjustments to visa policies are necessary.

 

Section I: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
Health and Care Worker Visa	A visa that allows qualified health and social care professionals to work in the UK for an approved employer.
Care Worker	A person employed to provide care, support, and assistance to individuals in settings such as care homes or private residences.
Senior Care Worker	A more experienced care worker responsible for supervising other care staff and managing care plans.
Dependent	A family member, such as a spouse, partner, or child under 18, who can accompany the main visa holder to the UK.
Main Applicant	The individual who is applying for a visa based on their employment, skills, or qualifications.
Skilled Worker Visa	A visa allowing foreign nationals to work in the UK in eligible jobs with a licensed employer sponsor.
Sponsorship	The process by which a UK employer supports a visa application for a foreign worker, confirming their job offer.
Care Quality Commission (CQC)	The independent regulator of health and social care services in England, ensuring compliance with care standards.
Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)	An independent body that advises the UK government on immigration policy, including labour market needs.
Family Visa	A visa that allows family members of British citizens or settled persons to join them in the UK.
Net Migration	The difference between the number of people entering and leaving the UK, used to measure overall immigration levels.
Occupation Code (SOC)	A code used to classify job roles in the UK for visa eligibility and immigration purposes.
Transitional Provisions	Temporary rules that protect the rights of individuals already in the UK under previous visa regulations.
Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)	The right to live in the UK indefinitely, usually granted after a certain period of continuous residence.
Labour Shortages	The lack of sufficient qualified workers in certain sectors, often addressed through overseas recruitment.
Social Care Sector	The industry focused on providing personal and healthcare support to vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly and disabled.
Dependants’ Visa	A visa that allows family members to accompany or join a main visa holder in the UK.

 

Section J: Additional Resources

 

UK Government’s Official Announcement on Visa Changes
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-laws-to-cut-migration-and-tackle-care-worker-visa-abuse
This page details the government’s measures implemented to reduce net migration and address visa misuse within the care sector.

 

Health and Care Worker Visa Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa
Comprehensive guidance on eligibility criteria, application processes, and conditions for the Health and Care Worker Visa.

 

Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) Reports
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/migration-advisory-committee
Access reports and recommendations from the MAC regarding labour shortages and immigration policies affecting the health and care sectors.

 

NHS Employers: Updates on Immigration Policies
https://www.nhsemployers.org/articles/impacts-changes-uk-immigration-policy
Insights into how recent immigration policy changes impact NHS recruitment and staffing.

 

Home Office Immigration Statistics
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/immigration-statistics-quarterly-release
Official statistics on visa applications, grants, and trends, including data on Health and Care Worker Visas.

 

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Official Website
https://www.cqc.org.uk/
Information on the CQC’s role in regulating health and social care services in England, including guidance for providers.

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Official Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration
Access to official guidance documents, policy updates, and resources related to UK visas and immigration.