Various implementations are directed to providing inter-layer dependency information. In one implementation, syntax elements are generated that indicate an inter-layer dependency structure among three-dimensional video (3DV) layers. Based on the inter-layer dependency structure, an inter-layer reference is identified for a picture from a layer of the 3DV layers. The picture is encoded based, at least in part, on the inter-layer reference. Corresponding decoding implementations are also provided. Additionally, in another implementation, a transmission priority and an indication of network congestion are used to determine whether to transmit data for a particular 3DV layer. The transmission priority is based on an inter-layer dependency structure among multiple 3DV layers. Another implementation is directed to a network abstraction layer unit that can explicitly identify and convey inter-layer references and corresponding dependencies.