Settlement Visas for Spouse and Dependent Children | Shift by MLegal
Settlement Visas for Spouse and Dependent Children
At Shift by MLegal, we understand that global mobility is incomplete without your loved ones. That’s why we offer specialised immigration solutions for family reunification, helping you bring your spouse and children to join you — legally, efficiently, and with full peace of mind.
Our legal team guides both sponsors and applicants through the complex process of securing dependent and settlement visas, ensuring that your family remains together no matter where life or business takes you.
Why Settlement Visas Matter
- Keep your family united in your new country of residence
- Ensure access to education and healthcare for your children
- Allow your spouse to work, study, or run a business
- Comply with local family immigration rules and timelines
- Build a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship for dependents
Eligible Relationships for Dependent Settlement Visas
| Relation Type | Common Eligibility Conditions |
|---|---|
| Spouse or Civil Partner | Must be legally married or in a recognised civil partnership |
| Unmarried Partner | Evidence of living together for at least 2 years (varies by country) |
| Dependent Children (<18) | Must be financially dependent and not married |
| Adult Children (18+) | May qualify in special circumstances (disability, education, etc.) |
Common Jurisdictions and Visa Routes
| Country | Family Settlement Route | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| UK | Spouse Visa, Dependent Child Visa | 30-month initial visa, work rights for spouse, NHS access |
| Canada | Family Sponsorship Program | PR status for spouse and children, open work permit for spouse |
| Australia | Partner Visa Subclass 820/801 | Full work rights, PR pathway, access to Medicare |
| UAE | Family Residence Visa | Renewable 2–5 year residence permits, school access |
| USA | F2, H4, L2 Dependent Visas | Spouse work rights (varies), study options for children |
Our Services for Family Immigration
| Stage | What We Offer |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Review | Legal evaluation of sponsor and dependent requirements |
| Document Preparation | Marriage certificates, birth documents, affidavits, translations |
| Relationship Proof | Support with cohabitation evidence, photos, financial dependency |
| Visa Filing and Monitoring | End-to-end application submission, embassy processing, follow-up |
| Post-Arrival Support | Visa renewals, local ID registration, work permit guidance |
Special Situations We Handle
- Unmarried long-term partners in countries requiring proof of cohabitation
- Newborns born abroad without a passport or birth certificate
- Visa rejections or refusals due to documentation gaps or credibility issues
- Family of healthcare or essential workers in fast-track immigration categories
- Widows or separated spouses seeking protection or resettlement with children
Why Choose Shift by MLegal?
- We treat your family like ours — with personal attention and legal precision
- Immigration lawyers, not just agents — full legal defence and appeal capacity
- Tailored documentation strategy to meet stringent evidentiary standards
- Multijurisdictional experience across UK, Canada, UAE, Australia, and more
- Post-visa compliance including residency renewals and citizenship planning
FAQs: Spouse & Dependent Visas
Q1: Can my spouse work on a dependent visa?
A: In most countries, yes. For example, the UK Spouse Visa and Canadian Family Sponsorship allow full work rights.
Q2: What documents are needed to prove the relationship?
A: Marriage certificates, joint bank statements, communication records, cohabitation proof, and travel history.
Q3: What if we’re not legally married?
A: Many jurisdictions recognise unmarried partnerships if cohabitation and intent can be proven (UK, Canada, etc.).
Q4: Will my children's education be affected?
A: No. Most dependent child visas allow access to public or private schooling without restrictions.
Q5: How long does it take?
A: Processing times vary by country — UK (~3 months), Canada (~8–12 months), UAE (2–4 weeks).
Keep Your Family Close — Wherever Life Takes You
At Shift by MLegal, we understand that your family is your foundation. Let us help you build your future together — wherever in the world you choose to thrive.