Is there an ILR Dependent Visa in the UK for family?

Introduction

The UK remains one of the most desired destinations for families seeking stability and long-term residence. For those who have secured Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), a crucial question follows:

Can family members join or stay with them under an ILR Dependent Visa? As of June 2025, the answer is yes—with important qualifications.

What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) grants an individual the legal right to live and work in the UK without time restrictions. While it falls short of full British citizenship, ILR provides near-identical residency rights and is often a stepping stone to naturalisation. Those holding ILR are permitted to sponsor certain family members under specific immigration routes.

Who qualifies as a family member for ILR Dependents?

Under current Home Office policy, the following are typically recognised as eligible dependents of an ILR holder:

  • Spouses or civil partners
  • Unmarried partners (must have cohabited for 2+ years)
  • Children under 18
  • In some rare cases, adult dependent relatives (ADRs)

Eligibility hinges on the genuineness of the relationship and compliance with stringent documentation and financial thresholds.

Types of ILR Dependent Visas in 2025

There isn’t a single “ILR Dependent Visa,” but rather several visa categories that ILR holders can use to bring or keep family in the UK. As of June 2025, the primary applicable routes include:

  • Family Visa – Partner or Spouse
  • Family Visa – Child
  • Adult Dependent Relative Visa (for parents or elderly dependents)

Each route carries its own requirements and limitations, and recent updates have tightened scrutiny.

Spouse or Civil Partner of an ILR Holder

Spouses and civil partners can apply for a Family Visa as dependents of an ILR holder. This route requires evidence of a genuine and subsisting relationship. As of 2025, couples must:

  • Have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years
  • Meet the financial requirement (£29,000+ annual income or £88,500+ in savings)
  • Prove adequate accommodation without recourse to public funds

The initial visa is typically granted for 30 months and can be extended before applying for ILR after 5 years of residence.

Children of an ILR Holder

Children under 18 may be eligible if:

  • Both parents have ILR (or one parent if the other is deceased or has sole responsibility)
  • The child is not married, in a civil partnership, or leading an independent life
  • The child was not born in the UK (those born in the UK to an ILR holder may automatically become British citizens)

Adult children are not usually eligible unless under exceptional compassionate circumstances.

Elderly parents and other adult dependents

Bringing elderly parents or other adult dependent relatives is notably more difficult. The Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) route requires that:

  • The applicant needs long-term personal care
  • No one in the home country can provide it
  • The UK sponsor can fully financially support them

Due to high refusal rates, this is one of the most complex visa categories and often requires robust legal preparation.

Key eligibility criteria for ILR Dependents

To qualify, dependents must:

  • Have a genuine and verifiable relationship with the ILR holder
  • Intend to live together permanently
  • Not fall under general grounds for refusal (e.g., criminal record, immigration history)
  • Demonstrate English proficiency (A1–B1 level, depending on the visa)
  • Pass a TB test (if required based on their country of origin)

Financial requirements and proof of relationship

As of June 2025, the UK government has raised the financial threshold:

  • For partners: £29,000/year gross income (or specified savings)
  • For children: Additional income requirement per child
  • Documentation includes payslips, bank statements, tenancy agreements, and relationship proof (photos, chats, joint bills, etc.)

Accuracy and consistency in evidence submission are critical to avoid refusals.

Documents required for ILR Dependent Visa in 2025

Typical documentation includes:

  • Valid passports and biometric details
  • Marriage or birth certificates
  • Proof of income and accommodation
  • English language test certificates
  • Tuberculosis test (if required)
  • Proof of cohabitation for unmarried partners

Recent rules emphasize digital submission and biometric appointments via UKVCAS.

How long can ILR Dependents stay in the UK?

Dependents are usually granted leave in line with family visa durations—initially 30 months, extendable up to 60 months. After 5 years (or 10 under some circumstances), they may qualify for ILR in their own right.

Path to ILR for Dependents

Dependents must:

  • Complete 5 years of continuous lawful residence
  • Meet language and Life in the UK Test requirements
  • Maintain financial and relationship criteria throughout
  • Apply under the “Set (M)” route for settlement

Switching from a dependent to independent visa route is possible under certain conditions.

Can ILR Dependents work, study, or use public funds?

ILR dependents are permitted to work and study without restrictions. However, they are generally not eligible for public funds until they themselves acquire ILR or British citizenship.

This includes benefits such as Universal Credit, housing assistance, or child support.

Recent changes to UK Immigration rules affecting ILR Families (June 2025 Update)

Recent updates include:

  • Increased financial thresholds (as mentioned above)
  • Mandatory online document submission and digital identity verification
  • Stricter checks on sham or paper marriages
  • More scrutiny for adult dependent relative applications

These changes have made it essential for applicants to present well-prepared, legally sound applications.

Common reasons for refusals and how to avoid them

Frequent causes of rejections:

  • Inadequate financial proof
  • Missing or inconsistent documentation
  • Failing the English language test
  • Insufficient evidence of genuine relationship
  • Criminal or immigration violations

Avoiding these pitfalls requires meticulous preparation and often professional guidance.

How BS Immigration can help with ILR Dependent Visa Applications

BS Immigration provides expert, end-to-end support for ILR-dependent visa applications. From eligibility assessments and document verification to application drafting and Home Office communication, their experienced team ensures every step aligns with the latest immigration rules. With an IAA certification and direct communication pathways with UK Home Office, BS Immigration offers a reliable, transparent, and personalised approach to bringing families together in the UK.

Whether you’re planning to sponsor a spouse, reunite with your children, or apply for your dependent parent, BS Immigration’s advisors are ready to assist you with insight, precision, and care.

Happy UK family reunited through ILR Dependent Visa UK in 2025