Can Skilled Workers Bring Dependants in 2026?
Whether Skilled Workers can bring dependants to the UK in 2026 is one of the most important and confusing immigration questions right now. Due to major changes in UK immigration policy between 2024 and 2026, dependant rules have become much stricter.
While some Skilled Workers can still bring dependants, many can no longer do so. The ability to bring family members now depends on salary level, job type, visa route, and application date.
This guide explains the current rules in 2026, who qualifies, who is excluded, and what families need to know before applying.
Who Counts as a Dependant Under UK Immigration Rules?
Under UK immigration law, dependants include:
- Husband or wife
- Civil partner
- Unmarried partner (living together for at least 2 years)
- Children under 18
- Children over 18 already in the UK as dependants
Parents, siblings and extended family members do not qualify as dependants under the Skilled Worker route.
Outbound source:
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/your-partner-and-children
Old Dependant Rules vs New Rules (What Changed?)
Before the changes
Previously, most Skilled Workers could bring dependants as long as they:
- Had a valid Skilled Worker visa
- Met basic financial requirements
After the changes (2026 rules)
The UK government introduced new restrictions:
- Care workers can no longer bring dependants
- Salary thresholds increased dramatically
- Some public sector roles lost dependant rights
- Financial requirements are more strictly enforced
These changes aim to reduce migration numbers linked to family routes.
Who Can Still Bring Dependants in 2026?
In 2026, Skilled Workers can bring dependants if all of the following apply:
- You hold a Skilled Worker visa
- Your job is eligible under the new Immigration Salary List
- You earn £38,700 or more per year (general threshold)
- Your sponsor remains fully licensed
- Your dependants meet financial and relationship requirements
Higher-paid professionals are most likely to qualify.
Who Is No Longer Allowed to Bring Dependants?
Several Skilled Worker categories are banned from bringing dependants in 2026.
Care workers and senior care workers
- Dependants not allowed for new applications
- Existing dependants may remain under transitional rules
Lower-paid Skilled Workers
- Roles that cannot meet the £38,700 threshold
- Jobs removed from the Immigration Salary List
Some public sector roles
- Certain NHS support roles
- Social care and auxiliary positions
Outbound source:
https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa
Salary Threshold and Its Impact on Dependants
The new salary threshold is the biggest deciding factor.
Key rule
If you earn below £38,700, you are very unlikely to be allowed to bring dependants.
This applies even if:
- You have worked in the UK for years
- You previously brought dependants
- Your job is still classed as “skilled”
Salary must be genuine, guaranteed, and confirmed by the sponsor.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Dependant Ban?
Very limited exceptions exist.
Possible exceptions include:
- Certain healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses in specific bands)
- PhD-level occupations
- Existing visa holders under transitional arrangements
However, new applicants should not rely on exceptions unless explicitly stated by the Home Office.
What Are Transitional Arrangements?
Transitional rules protect some existing visa holders.
If you:
- Were granted a Skilled Worker visa before the dependant ban, and
- Already have dependants in the UK
Then:
- Your dependants can usually extend their visas
- You may still qualify for settlement together
However, if you switch employers or roles, new rules may apply.
Financial Requirements for Dependants (2026)
In addition to salary thresholds, dependants must meet maintenance requirements.
Required savings (if sponsor does not certify):
- £285 for a partner
- £315 for the first child
- £200 for each additional child
Funds must be held for at least 28 consecutive days.
Outbound source:
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/financial-evidence
Application Process for Dependants
Dependants can apply:
- At the same time as the main applicant, or
- Later as “joining family members”
Each dependant must:
- Submit a separate application
- Pay visa fees
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Provide proof of relationship
Dependants’ visas usually expire on the same date as the main visa.
Immigration Health Surcharge for Dependants
In 2026, the IHS costs are:
- £1,035 per year per adult
- £776 per year per child
For a family of four on a 5-year visa, the IHS alone can exceed £18,000.
Outbound source:
https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application
Can Dependants Work or Study in the UK?
Yes — dependants have broad rights.
Partners can:
- Work full-time or part-time
- Be self-employed
- Study
- Change jobs freely
Children can:
- Attend state schools
- Study without restriction
Dependants cannot access public funds.
What Happens If a Dependant Application Is Refused?
Common refusal reasons include:
- Salary below threshold
- Insufficient financial evidence
- Relationship not proven
- Sponsor compliance issues
A refusal does not automatically cancel the main Skilled Worker visa, but it can affect future applications.
Impact of the New Rules on Families
The dependant restrictions have caused:
- Family separation
- Delayed migration plans
- Increased financial pressure
- Reduced UK attractiveness for workers
Many Skilled Workers now choose other countries with more family-friendly migration policies.
Comparison With Other Visa Routes
Some routes remain more flexible.
Better options for families:
- Global Talent Visa
- Innovator Founder Visa
- High-earning Skilled Worker roles
Student and care routes are now among the most restrictive.
What Skilled Workers Should Do Before Applying
Before applying in 2026:
- Check your job’s dependant eligibility
- Confirm salary meets new threshold
- Speak to a regulated immigration adviser
- Avoid switching sponsors unnecessarily
- Plan financially for visa and IHS costs
Rules may continue to change.
Outbound Links (Official Sources)
Skilled Worker dependants guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/your-partner-and-children
Immigration Rules:
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/immigration-rules
Health and Care Worker Visa:
https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa
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