The UK Dependent Visa, officially known as the "UK Dependent Family Member Visa," allows family members of individuals who are settled in the UK or British citizens to join them in the UK. This visa category encompasses spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners, children, and elderly dependent relatives. The requirements vary depending on the relationship with the sponsor and the age of the dependent. 

Here's a detailed overview of the requirements for obtaining a UK Dependent Visa: 

Eligibility Criteria  

1. Relationship Requirement: The applicant must be a spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, child, or elderly dependent relative of a person who is settled in the UK or a British citizen. The relationship must be genuine and subsisting.  
2. Financial Requirement: The sponsor (the person settled in the UK or British citizen) must demonstrate that they can financially support the dependant without recourse to public funds. They must meet the minimum income threshold set by the UK government, which varies depending on the number of dependants and their circumstances. Additional income sources such as savings, pensions, or non-employment income may also be considered.  
3. Accommodation Requirement: The sponsor must provide adequate accommodation for the dependant and any accompanying family members without relying on public funds. The accommodation must meet the UK's housing standards and not be overcrowded.  
4. English Language Requirement: For adult dependents (spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners), proficiency in the English language may be required. This can be demonstrated by passing an approved English language test at the required level. Exemptions may apply if the dependent is a national of a majority English-speaking country or has completed a degree taught in English.  
5. Intentions to Live Together: The sponsor and the dependant must intend to live together as a family in the UK. They need to provide evidence of their relationship and intentions to live together, such as joint financial commitments, correspondence, and photos together.  
6. Immigration History: The dependant must have a clean immigration history, meaning they have not breached any UK immigration laws or been refused entry to the UK.  
7. Health Requirement: The dependent may need to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test if they are applying from a country where TB is prevalent. They must also disclose any serious health conditions that could require costly medical treatment in the UK.  

Application Process  

1. Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents to support the application, including evidence of the relationship with the sponsor, financial documents, accommodation details, English language test results (if applicable), and proof of intentions to live together.  
2. Complete Online Application: Apply online through the UK government's visa application website. Fill out the application form accurately, providing all required information.  
3. Biometric Appointment:Schedule and attend a biometric appointment at a designated visa application centre to have fingerprints and a photograph taken.  
4. Submit Supporting Documents: Upload scanned copies of supporting documents online or submit them at the visa application centre.  
5. Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) if applicable.  
6. Attend Interview (if required):  In some cases, dependents may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.  
7. Wait for Decision: Once the application and supporting documents are submitted, wait for a decision on the visa application. Processing times can vary depending on the location and individual circumstances.  
8. Receive Decision: If approved, the dependant will receive a visa vignette in their passport, allowing them to travel to the UK.  
9. Enter the UK: Once the visa is issued, the dependent can travel to the UK within the validity period of the visa.  

Conclusion  

Obtaining a UK Dependent Visa involves meeting various eligibility criteria, providing supporting documentation, and following the application process outlined by the UK government. By understanding and fulfilling the requirements, dependents can increase their chances of a successful visa application and join their family members in the United Kingdom.