Family Visas UK

Are you considering moving to the UK to join your family? Navigating the UK visa system can be complex, but understanding the different family visa options can make the process smoother.

Whether you want to apply, switch or extend a UK family visa, our immigration lawyer can provide legal advice assistance with your UK family visa application.

What types of UK family visas are available?

The UK offers several family visa options, each designed to accommodate different family relationships and circumstances. Here are the main types:

• Spouse or Partner Visa
• Fiancé(e) Visa
• Parent Visa
• Child Visa
• Adult Dependent Relative Visa

Who can apply for a UK family visa?

You can apply for a UK family visa if you are a:

• Spouse or partner of a British citizen or someone with settled status
• Fiancé(e) of a British citizen or someone with settled status
• Parent of a British child or a child with settled status
• Child of a British citizen or someone with settled status
• Adult dependent relative who needs long-term care from a family member in the UK

Spouse or Partner Visa

If you are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK, you can apply for a spouse or partner visa. This visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to 30 months, with the possibility of an extension.

Eligibility Requirements

• Valid marriage or civil partnership.
• Proof of genuine and subsisting relationship.
• Financial requirement: Your partner must earn a minimum income or have sufficient savings.
• English language proficiency.

Fiancé(e) Visa

The fiancé(e) visa is for those planning to marry a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK. This visa is valid for six months, during which you must get married.

Eligibility Requirements

• Intention to marry within six months.
• Proof of genuine relationship.
• Financial requirement.
• English language proficiency.

Parent Visa

Parents of British children or children with settled status can apply for a parent visa to join their children in the UK. This visa allows you to stay for up to 30 months, with the possibility of an extension.

Eligibility Requirements

• A child must be under 18 and living in the UK.
• Sole responsibility or direct access to the child.
• Financial requirement.
• English language proficiency.

Child Visa

Children under 18 can apply for a child visa to join their parents in the UK. This visa is valid for up to 30 months and can be extended.

Eligibility Requirements

• One or both parents must be British citizens or have settled status.
• Proof of parental responsibility.
• Adequate accommodation and financial support.

Adult Dependent Relative Visa

This visa is for adult relatives who require long-term care from a family member settled in the UK. It is typically used by elderly parents or grandparents.

Eligibility Requirements

• Need for long-term personal care.
• No available care in the home country.
• Financial support from the UK-based relative.

Application Process

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements for your specific visa type.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Prepare all necessary documents, including proof of relationship, financial evidence, accommodation details, and English language certificates.

Step 3: Submit Application

Submit your application online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Step 4: Biometric Appointment

Attend a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph.

Step 5: Wait for the Decision

After submitting your application and attending the biometric appointment, wait for the UKVI to process your application. This can take several weeks, so plan accordingly.