The Child Dependent Visa (CDV) is designed to allow children of British citizens and permanent residents to join their families in the UK. There are various visa categories for dependent children, each tailored to specific circumstances:

  1. General Overview

    • CDVs permit children to enter and stay in the UK indefinitely, with no initial time limit on their stay. The primary goal of these visas is family reunification, allowing children to live with their loved ones. Financial independence is not a strict requirement, but certain factors must be considered to ensure that the child can sustain themselves without relying on public funds.

  2. Age Requirements

    • The CDV application process varies based on the child's age. The sponsoring parent must be at least 18 years old, or 16 with permission from their partner's parents or guardians, to apply for a dependent visa. While there is no upper age limit for the child, applicants who do not meet the financial requirements may need to apply under Section 9 of Appendix FM, providing detailed income and capital information. Successful applications typically indicate sufficient financial independence to reside in the UK without public assistance. However, insufficient finances may lead to visa refusal.

Long-Term D-Child Dependent Visa

The Long-Term D-Child Dependent Visa allows children to live in the UK with their parents, usually issued for five years, with the possibility of extension. To qualify, applicants must have lived in the UK for five years without significant absences (no more than 180 days). The sponsoring parent must meet minimum income requirements as outlined in Appendix FM or Part 9 of the Immigration Rules, depending on the child's age. Before applying, children must secure entry clearance as dependent children under these rules.

Bringing a Dependent Child to Ireland

Bringing a dependent child to Ireland involves a straightforward process:

  1. Application Process

    • The sponsoring parent or guardian must complete an application form from the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service (INIS) website, providing the child's passport, birth certificate, and proof of financial support (e.g., payslips, bank statements). If the child is not traveling with the parent or guardian, consent from both parents or guardians is required. A non-refundable fee of €60 accompanies the application.

  2. Post-Approval Process

    • If approved, the child receives a passport stamp for a three-month stay in Ireland. During this time, the parent or guardian must apply for a residence permit for the child, either online or at an Irish embassy. The permit costs €300 and is valid for five years.

Supporting Documentation for Ireland

When applying to bring a child to Ireland, the following documentation is required:

  • Copies of the child's passport and birth certificate.
  • Evidence of financial support (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
  • Consent letter from both parents or guardians if the child is not traveling with the sponsor.
  • A €60 non-refundable application fee.

Financial Requirements for Bringing a Child to the UK

While there are no specific financial requirements for bringing a child under 18 to the UK, the sponsoring parent or guardian must demonstrate the ability to support the child financially. Required documents include payslips, bank statements, or proof of other income. If the child is not traveling with the parent or guardian, a consent letter from both parents or guardians is necessary. The application fee is £50, which is non-refundable.

Finances and Adequate Accommodation

The sponsoring parent must prove they have sufficient financial means to support and house the child in the UK without relying on public funds. Many applicants face challenges during the appeal stage due to inadequate evidence of sole responsibility or insufficient communication proof. The UK immigration process for child dependents is complex, and applications not supported by thorough documentation and a detailed cover letter explaining the evidence often face refusal. At Immigration Solicitors 4me, we strongly recommend seeking legal advice to avoid disappointment, especially given the current appeal backlog, which can delay hearings for over 48 weeks.

Why Choose UKIS Solicitors?

  1. Regulation and Reach: TMC Solicitors is a fully SRA-regulated law firm with a global client base.
  2. Professionalism: We pride ourselves on professionalism and client care, resulting in numerous satisfied clients.
  3. Success Rate: Our legal team's expertise has led to a success rate exceeding 98%.
  4. Pragmatic Legal Approach: We offer realistic legal advice, ensuring the best outcomes for our clients.
  5. Accessibility: We are available 24/7 for emergencies, including detention, deportation, and entry refusal.
  6. Minimal Disruption: We handle client issues over the phone, minimizing disruption to their daily lives.
  7. Specialized Client Coordinators: Our passionate client coordinators provide initial free assessments.
  8. Bilingual Staff: Our bilingual team ensures clients can comfortably discuss their legal matters.

For more information or assistance with your child-dependent visa application, please contact us. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of immigration law and ensure a smooth process for bringing your loved ones to the UK or Ireland.