Join Your Partner or ParentWorking in the UK
Bring your family to the UK with full work and study rights. 98%+ success rate with proper guidance.
Unlike most dependent visas, PBS Family Members can work in any job, be self-employed, and study freely - no restrictions or separate work permits needed.
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What is a PBS Family Member Visa?
The PBS Family Member Visa allows partners and children of Points-Based System migrants (Skilled Workers, Students, etc.) to join them in the UK. It provides full work and study rights, making it one of the most flexible family visa categories.
For Partners & Children
Spouses, partners, and children of Skilled Workers, Students, and other PBS migrants.
Full Work Rights
Work in any job, be self-employed, or study - no restrictions or separate permits needed.
Path to Settlement
Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain when the main PBS migrant qualifies (typically 5 years).
Key Advantages
Unlike child dependent visas, PBS Family Members enjoy unrestricted work and study rights from day one. You can work in any job, switch employers freely, start a business, or study at any level. Your visa duration typically matches the main migrant's visa, and you can extend together. As long as the main PBS migrant maintains valid status, dependents can remain in the UK and eventually qualify for settlement.
Speak to a SpecialistWho Can Apply?
Spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, or same-sex partner of a PBS migrant
Child under 18 of a PBS migrant (or over 18 if previously granted as child)
Main PBS migrant has valid leave or is being granted leave simultaneously
Adequate maintenance funds available (unless Tier 1 Investor)
Genuine relationship with intention to live together in UK
Benefits
Work in any job without restrictions
Start your own business or be self-employed
Study at any educational institution
Access NHS healthcare (with health surcharge)
Path to settlement (ILR) after 5 years
Eligible for British citizenship after qualifying period
PBS Family Member Visa Requirements
Requirements vary slightly depending on whether you're a partner or child of the PBS migrant.
Relationship Requirements
For partners, you must prove a genuine and subsisting relationship with the PBS migrant.
Partner requirements:
- Married, in civil partnership, or lived together 2+ years (unmarried)
- Intend to live together permanently in the UK
- Both over 18 years old
- Not in relationship with anyone else
Child requirements:
- Under 18 at time of application
- Not married or in civil partnership
- Both parents in UK or one parent with sole responsibility
Financial Requirements
Unless the PBS migrant is a Tier 1 Investor, you must show adequate maintenance funds.
Required amounts (held for 28 days):
- Partner of main migrant: £285
- First child: Additional £315
- Each additional child: Additional £200
Important
Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days ending no more than 31 days before application. Can be held by main migrant, you, or jointly.
Main Migrant's Status
The main PBS migrant must have valid leave or be applying for leave at the same time.
Qualifying PBS categories:
- Skilled Worker visa holder
- Student visa holder (certain circumstances)
- Tier 1 Investor or Entrepreneur
- Tier 2 visa holders (legacy)
- Tier 5 temporary workers (certain categories)
Additional Requirements
Other requirements that must be met for a successful application.
- Criminal record certificate (if applying as partner of Tier 1 Investor/Entrepreneur)
- TB test certificate (if from listed countries)
- Valid passport with at least one blank page
- Intent not to stay beyond main migrant's leave period
- Not previously refused entry as visitor, short-term student, or temporary admission
Required Documents
Complete documentation is essential. Requirements vary slightly for partners vs. children.
Identity Documents
- Valid passport (at least one blank page)
- Birth certificate (for children)
- Previous passports showing travel history
- TB test certificate (if required)
Relationship Evidence
- Marriage/civil partnership certificate
- Evidence of cohabitation (if unmarried)
- Photos together from different occasions
- Communication evidence (messages, calls)
- Joint financial commitments (if applicable)
Financial Documents
- Bank statements (28 consecutive days)
- Showing required maintenance funds
- Dated within 31 days of application
- Main migrant or applicant's accounts
Main Migrant's Documents
- Passport and biometric residence permit
- Current UK visa documentation
- Proof of PBS leave or application
- Employment details (if Skilled Worker)
Legal Documents
- Divorce/death certificates (if applicable)
- Custody documents (for children)
- Consent from other parent (if applicable)
- Criminal record certificate (if required)
Additional Documents
- Certified translations (if required)
- Accommodation evidence (if helpful)
- Previous UK immigration history
- Supporting letters/statements
Application Process
Follow these steps for a successful PBS Family Member Visa application.
Confirm Main Migrant's Status
Verify that the main PBS migrant has valid leave or is applying for leave. Check they're on a qualifying PBS route (Skilled Worker, Student, etc.). If applying together, coordinate both applications.
Check Financial Requirements
Ensure you have the required maintenance funds (£285 for partner, £315 for first child, £200 for additional children) held for 28 consecutive days. Verify funds are dated correctly (within 31 days of application).
Gather All Documents
Collect relationship evidence, financial documents, identity papers, and main migrant's visa documents. Arrange certified translations for documents not in English or Welsh. Organize everything clearly.
Complete Online Application
Fill out the appropriate online application form. Provide detailed information about your relationship, the main migrant's status, and your circumstances. Ensure all information is accurate and consistent with documents.
Pay Fees and Book Appointment
Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge. Book biometric appointment at visa application center. Consider priority service if you need faster processing (where available).
Attend Biometric Appointment
Visit visa application center for fingerprints and photo. Submit all supporting documents. Keep copies of everything for your records. You may be able to keep your passport during processing.
Wait for Decision
Processing takes up to 3 weeks from outside UK, or up to 8 weeks from inside UK. Track your application online. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Receive Visa & Start Your Life in UK
If approved, you'll receive a visa matching the main migrant's duration. Travel to UK and enjoy full work and study rights from day one. You can work in any job, start a business, or study without restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about PBS Family Member Visas.
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