If you are intending to relocate with dependents you may be concerned as to whether you can bring your family with you, and at what stage this is possible? In this blog we outline the UK legislation rules in relation to your entry on a Tier 2 Visa, considering the following:
Firstly, it is important to revisit the Tier 2 Visa briefly, as this is the most likely route to the UK for IMGs. The Tier 2 General visa is a UK work visa issued to highly skilled workers from outside the European Economic Area and Switzerland.
As a holder of Tier 2 General Visa, you will be permitted to bring dependents to the UK on a Tier 2 Dependent Visa. It can be used when applying for or already holding a Tier 2 visa.
Doctors residing in the UK under the Tier 2 Visa, or applying for a Tier 2 visa, are allowed to bring their dependents to the UK. There is a narrow list of who qualifies as a Tier 2 dependent, and is as follows:
Please note there can be a range of scenarios that affect eligibility for dependents, we recommend checking here before starting your application.
As a requirement, you need to show proof that you have an extra £630 available for each dependent that you plan to bring to the UK (in addition to the £945 you are required to support yourself financially). If you present a bank statement to this effect, the money must have been in your bank account or your dependent’s bank account, for longer than 90 days before the application date.
You will not need to show proof of your savings if you have:
Documents must be submitted when applying in order to prove dependents falls under one of the above-mentioned criteria.
A person applying to enter the UK as a dependent of a Tier 2 Visa holder, must submit the following documents during their Visa application interview:
Confirming dependents' T2 visa appointment.
Valid for 6 months beyond the relocation date and must have at least one blank page in order to be able to affix visa.
Some locations only allow online applications - check with the UK embassy in your home country. If you can apply online, take the confirmation form with you to your appointment.
Ensure these are 45mm high by 35mm wide, taken within the last month and printed to a professional standard.
It must show dependent’s relationship to principal Tier 2 work visa holder.
These are needed to show previous travel history.
These must be official translations.
If you are from a listed country, you will need to provide a Tuberculosis Testing Clearance Certificate – read our blog for more information.
Document requirements vary depending on your country of residence, so you want to make sure before submitting your application. We advise you ask the embassy in your country of residence for a checklist before gathering the required documents.
Please note, your documents, including your passport, will remain at the embassy or consulate, during the time your application is being reviewed.
Yes. If you come to the UK and you have the required age which permits you to work, then you are allowed to take a job according to your qualifications.
The only exception is that Tier 2 Dependents are not allowed to work as a doctor in training, they will need to complete their own Tier 2 Visa if planning to work as a doctor in the UK.
In addition, if you come to the UK as a Tier 2 Spouse Dependent then you are not allowed to switch your visa to a Tier 2 Visa once in UK, even if you find a job that requires highly skilled persons. You will have to return to your home country and apply from there in order to be able to obtain a Tier 2 Visa.
Yes. Every person remaining in the UK as a dependent of a Tier 2 Visa holder, has the right to apply to extend their stay in the UK.
These are the main activities you’re allowed to perform in the UK as a Tier 2 Dependent:
These are the activities you’re not allowed to perform in the UK as a Tier 2 Dependent:
There are two costs to consider throughout this process:
The exact fee for dependents will vary depending on whether or not your own Tier 2 visa falls under the national shortage list or not. This list can be found here.
The surcharge is applicable every year of your visa at a cost of £400 (this can be checked using the government calculator here)
It is important to know, from the moment you pay the IHS surcharge you will be granted access to NHS healthcare services, free of charge.
Visa application costs below:
Up to 3 years – non-shortage occupation |
||
Who’s applying |
Fee (outside UK) |
Fee for extending or switching (in the UK) |
Yourself |
£610 |
£704 |
All dependents |
£610 per person |
£704 per person |
You as a citizen of Turkey or Macedonia |
£555 |
£649 |
Up to 3 years – shortage occupation |
||
Who’s applying |
Fee (outside UK) |
Fee for extending or switching (in the UK) |
Yourself |
£464 |
£464 |
All dependents |
£464 per person |
£464 per person |
You as a citizen of Turkey or Macedonia |
£409 |
£409 |
First things first, congratulations! You are now just a few steps away from completing your journey to the UK and can now firm up your relocation plans, putting into action your relocation checklist. Request your relocation checklist here.
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Here’s the anonymized version of the job advert:
A UK-based mental health provider is seeking a Senior Specialist in Psychiatry with an interest in memory assessment services for older people. The psychiatry department includes a skilled team of consultants and clinical nurse specialists, offering a supportive environment for career growth. This opportunity is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, with preference for those holding European Specialist training or MRCPsych qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
The region offers a mix of urban living in vibrant towns and peaceful countryside settings, providing options to suit a range of lifestyles. It is well-connected by major transport links and boasts excellent schools, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions for individuals and families. The area also has a rich history and cultural significance, adding to its charm as a great place to live and work.
A leading NHS cancer center in Manchester is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist specializing in Breast Oncology with an interest in advanced radiotherapy treatments in particular. Candidates can work as either a clinical or radiation oncologist. The Clinical Oncology Breast Disease Group comprises a team of 10 consultants, supported by a multidisciplinary team of nurse clinicians, clinical fellows, specialist trainees, pharmacists, and research nurses. This role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, though those with GMC Specialist Registration or FRCR qualifications are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Whilst specialist registration is not required, it is a preferred status for those interested in staying longer term given the opportunity to turn the post into a substantive role. Whatever the qualifications or registration type, candidates should have significant experience in the provision of radiotherapy for breast oncology patients. The salary will range from £105k to £139k per annum, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN MANCHESTER
Manchester, a thriving city in the North West of England, offers a mix of urban vibrancy and nearby rural tranquility. Popular areas include the city center for urban living and the nearby Cheshire countryside for more relaxed, family-oriented lifestyles. The region boasts excellent schools, extensive transport links including Manchester International Airport, and a wealth of cultural, sporting, and leisure activities. Manchester\'s industrial heritage has shaped the city into a hub of innovation and culture, renowned globally for its contributions to music, sports, and science.
A private diagnostic imaging clinic in a major Canadian city is looking for a Radiologist with an interest in specialized imaging services. The radiology team comprises a motivated group of professionals, including radiologists, Ultrasound Technologists, and Medical Radiation Technologists. This radiology job is open to both international applications and Canada-based doctors, though those with CCT from the UK, Ireland, or qualifications recognised by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC) are most encouraged to apply.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
A fellowship level qualification in Diagnostic Radiology from the Australasia region, South Africa, Switzerland, Singapore, Hong Kong, Ireland, UK, and the USA is required for this role, and anyone with an interest in specialized imaging services such as Breast Imaging, MSK Ultrasound, or Image-Guided Pain Management should apply. Earning potential of between $600,000 and $800,000 is available, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN THIS REGION
This major Canadian city offers a blend of urban and suburban living options, with lively downtown areas and peaceful neighborhoods for families. The region provides excellent schools, reliable transport links, and an array of leisure activities for adults and families alike. Known for its cultural diversity and natural beauty, this area is a significant hub for commerce and education in Canada.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role, including: