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Here’s What to Do If You Are Affected
You still have options if you take the time for strategic planning, understanding what works in your situation and exploring all available visa routes. Here’s what you can do if you are affected by the dependants’ restriction:
- Carefully review your transitional rights. You may still be able to extend your visa or have dependants join you.
- Upskill and change routes. Pursue further qualifications to meet the RQF Level 6 requirement.
- As above, other routes retain their dependant rights. See if any might fit your skills and career goals.
Facing Dependant Visa Challenges? Get Expert Guidance
The UK’s recent immigration reforms have made family reunification even more restrictive and uncertain. But you don’t have to bear the brunt yourself.
Our experienced UK immigration lawyer at Legend Consults offers clear, compassionate, and customised advice tailored to your situation. We’ll clarify your family’s status, explore new visa options, or adjust your hiring strategies, as needed.
📞 Contact us today to discuss how to find a new path forward for you and your family.
Many visa holders have lost their rights to bring dependants in the UK after the recent UK immigration reforms. The UK government initially limited Dependants’ rights on most care workers and international students in 2024.
In July 2025, restrictions were expanded to include the Skilled Worker route. With the dependant bans and new rules combined, social care workers, students, and skilled professionals will face strict, if not impossible, requirements for bringing family members into the UK.
Who Can No Longer Bring Dependants?
Let’s clear whether you are still eligible to bring dependants, based on 2024-2025 changes.
Care Workers (Health and Care Visa / SOC 6135/6136)
From 11 March 2024, outside-UK care worker applicants are no longer allowed to bring family members with them.
If you want to switch to a Care Worker visa from other UK visa routes: In-country switching routes are still allowed but will close entirely by 22 July 2028.
International Students
Since 1 January 2024, most international students are banned from bringing dependants, except for those who study postgraduate research, such as PhDs.
Skilled Workers in “Medium-Skilled” Roles (RQF Level 3-5)
Aside from the skill threshold increase to RQF Level 6 starting 22 July, if your role is below this new standard, you will also be facing significant restrictions on bringing dependants.
Generally, you can still bring dependants if you are already on a Skilled Worker visa below Level 6 before 22 July. That is, if you meet the new and tougher general minimum salary threshold (£41,700) and other criteria.
Who Can Still Bring Dependants?
If your role is above RQF Level 6 (degree holder or equivalent), you are more privileged in dependants’ rights. This usually includes doctors, nurses, IT specialists, engineers, and teachers.
Other visa routes remain unaffected, too, such as Global Talent visa, Innovator Founder visa, and most Global Business Mobility routes.
