In This Guide
One of the most important considerations for care workers coming to the UK is whether they can bring their family. The good news is that the Health and Care Worker visa allows you to bring your spouse or partner and children under 18 as dependants.
This guide explains who qualifies as a dependant, the costs involved, documentation needed, and the rights your family members will have once in the UK.
Who Qualifies as a Dependant?
The following family members can apply as your dependants:
Spouse or civil partner
Your legally married husband/wife or registered civil partner. The marriage must be legally recognised in the UK.
Unmarried partner
Your long-term partner if you have been living together in a relationship similar to marriage for at least 2 years. You will need evidence of cohabitation.
Children under 18
Your biological children, adopted children, or children you have legal responsibility for, who are under 18 at the time of application.
Not eligible: Parents, siblings, adult children (over 18), grandparents, and other extended family members cannot come as your dependants on this visa route.
Costs for Bringing Dependants
| Fee | Per Person | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application fee | £259 | Up to 3 years |
| IHS (adult) | £624/year | Full duration of visa |
| IHS (child under 18) | £470/year | Reduced child rate |
| Maintenance (adult) | £285 | Unless employer certifies |
| Maintenance (child) | £315 | Unless employer certifies |
Example total cost: Bringing a spouse and one child for a 3-year visa: Visa fees (2 × £259 = £518) + IHS (£624×3 + £470×3 = £3,282) = approximately £3,800. Some employers help cover these costs.
Documents Required
For a spouse/partner:
- Valid passport
- Marriage certificate (officially translated if not in English)
- Evidence of relationship (photos, joint accounts, correspondence)
- TB test certificate (if from a listed country)
- Your visa details or BRP number
For an unmarried partner (additional):
- Evidence of 2+ years cohabitation (tenancy agreements, utility bills, bank statements showing same address)
- Statutory declaration of relationship
For children:
- Child's passport
- Birth certificate showing parentage
- Consent from the other parent (if not applying together)
- Custody or guardianship documents (if applicable)
- TB test (for children over 6 months from listed countries)
Rights of Your Dependants in the UK
Your dependants have significant rights while living in the UK:
Unrestricted work rights
Can work in any job, for any employer, full-time or part-time, without needing sponsorship
Full NHS access
Can register with a GP and access all NHS services (covered by the IHS payment)
Education for children
Children can attend state schools for free and access further education
Study rights
Partner can study at any institution in the UK
Path to settlement
Dependants can apply for ILR at the same time as you after 5 years continuous residence
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my family to the UK on a care worker visa?
Yes, Health and Care Worker visa holders can bring dependants including their spouse or partner, and children under 18. Each dependant needs to make their own visa application and pay the relevant fees. Your dependants can work, study, and access the NHS while in the UK.
How much does it cost to bring dependants?
Each dependant pays a visa application fee of approximately £259 (up to 3 years) plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £624 per year. Children under 18 pay a reduced IHS rate. You may also need to show additional savings of £285 per dependant (£315 for children) unless your employer certifies maintenance.
Can my dependants work in the UK?
Yes, dependants of Health and Care Worker visa holders have full, unrestricted access to the UK labour market. They can work in any job, for any employer, with no restrictions on hours or type of work. They do not need their own sponsorship.
Can my partner join me later or do they have to come at the same time?
Your dependants can join you at any time during the validity of your visa. They do not need to apply at the same time as you. They can apply from their home country or, if they are already in the UK on a different visa, they can switch to a dependant visa.
Do my dependants get access to the NHS?
Yes. As dependants of a Health and Care Worker visa holder, your family members have full access to the NHS. The Immigration Health Surcharge payment covers this. They can register with a GP and access all NHS services.
Will my children be able to attend school?
Yes, children of Health and Care Worker visa holders can attend state schools in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland at no additional cost. They are entitled to the same education as any UK resident child.