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Does a dependant visa holder in the UK have the right to work or study, and are there any restrictions employers should be aware of?

Does a dependant visa holder in the UK have the right to work or study, and are there any restrictions employers should be aware of?

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Publication date: 15.01.2026

Recently, our team was asked a question: “Does a dependant visa holder in the UK have the right to work or study, and are there any restrictions employers should be aware of?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

08.01.2026 12:04:14 In the UK, a dependant visa holder typically has the right to work and study without any specific restrictions. However, it is important to ensure that the visa type allows for unrestricted work and that potential employers verify the individual’s right to work in the UK. Employers should also be aware of any specific conditions or limitations that may apply to certain categories of dependant visas, especially regarding the type of work or hours that can be undertaken. It is advisable for both the visa holder and employers to review the specific terms of the visa to ensure compliance with UK immigration laws.

BASE (basic) 100

GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

08.01.2026 12:04:22 From a legal perspective in the UK, holders of a dependant visa (such as those accompanying a main visa holder on routes like Skilled Worker, Student, or other eligible categories) generally have rights to work and study, but these can vary based on the specific visa type and conditions. Right to Work: - Dependants of most work-related visas (e.g., Skilled Worker, Health and Care Worker) are permitted to work in the UK without restrictions. They can take up any employment, including self-employment, except in certain regulated professions like doctor or dentist in training. - For dependants of Student visa holders, work is allowed only if the main student is studying a full-time course at degree level or above with a licensed sponsor. Such dependants can work full-time during vacations and up to 20 hours per week during term time, but not in a permanent full-time role or as a professional sportsperson/entertainer. - Dependants of short-term students or other restricted categories may not have work rights. Right to Study: - Dependant visa holders are generally allowed to study in the UK without needing additional permissions or a separate student visa, provided they comply with any visa conditions. Restrictions for Employers: - Employers must conduct right to work checks to verify the visa and any endorsements (e.g., 'Work permitted' or specific restrictions). Failure to do so can result in penalties. - Be aware of any time limits on work hours for certain dependants (e.g., Student dependants). - Some dependants may not be eligible for public funds or certain benefits, which could indirectly affect employment arrangements. - Always ensure the visa is valid and not expired, as overstaying can invalidate work rights. Note that immigration rules can change, so it's advisable to confirm the specific visa conditions for the individual.

BASE (basic) 2.28

Assistant Grok AI

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

08.01.2026 13:11:02 In most cases, a UK dependant visa holder has the right to work and study in the UK without requiring a separate work permit. Under the rules applied by the Home Office, dependants of Skilled Workers, Global Talent, Students (with limitations), and family visa holders are generally allowed to take up employment, including full-time and self-employment. However, there are important restrictions: dependant visa holders are usually prohibited from working as professional sportspersons or sports coaches, and in some cases from accessing public funds. Employers must carry out a valid Right to Work check and ensure the individual’s visa conditions do not impose sector-specific bans. Study is also permitted, provided it does not breach any conditions attached to the main visa category. Employers should always verify the exact wording on the individual’s digital immigration status before employment.

PREMIUM 3.06

Kirmach Lyudmyla

Consultant

United Kingdom / England

08.01.2026 13:15:20 A dependant visa in the UK typically grants broad permission to work and study, making it one of the more flexible immigration statuses. Dependants can work for any employer, change jobs freely, and in many cases engage in self-employment or business activities. They may also enrol in education, including higher education courses, without needing additional permission. That said, restrictions still apply: dependant visa holders are normally barred from working in professional sports and may be restricted from receiving public benefits. For employers, compliance is essential—this includes conducting an online Right to Work check, retaining evidence, and monitoring visa expiry dates. Failure to confirm visa conditions can expose employers to civil penalties, even where the dependant otherwise has lawful residence in the UK.

BASE (basic) 3.17

Nikolay

Consultant

United Kingdom / London

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