Ancestry: Direct Family Member

Ancestry dependants

Partners and dependent children of UK Ancestry visa holders may apply to enter or remain as dependants if relationship, dependency, and maintenance requirements are met.

Who may qualify

Spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners (with cohabitation history), and children under 18 or financially dependent may qualify subject to evidence of genuine relationships.

Linked to main applicant

Dependant applications reference the main Ancestry holder's status. If the main visa is refused or curtailed, dependant status is affected.

Relationship evidence

Marriage or birth certificates, cohabitation proof for partners, and evidence children are dependent on the main applicant.

Main applicant's ancestry permission

Copy of main holder's Ancestry visa or application and evidence they meet maintenance for dependants.

Maintenance and accommodation

Combined finances and suitable housing evidence may be required so the family can live without public funds.

How to apply

Dependants usually apply online alongside or after the main Ancestry applicant, linking applications where the system allows. Biometrics apply to each family member.

Costs & processing time

Each dependant pays visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (rates subject to change as of 2026). Priority services may be available per applicant.

Common reasons applications are refused

• Relationship not evidenced as genuine and subsisting

• Child not shown as dependent

• Main applicant maintenance insufficient for family size

• Partner cohabitation requirement not met for unmarried partners

• Timing mismatch with main applicant's grant or application

Related guidance: UK Ancestry Visa, and Settlement & ILR.