How to Apply for a Family Visa UK: A Complete Guide

Applying for a Family Visa UK allows non-British citizens to join their family members who are already living in the United Kingdom. Whether you're a spouse, partner, child, parent, or dependent relative, this guide will help you understand the application process, eligibility criteria, documents needed, and more.

What Is a UK Family Visa?

A Family Visa is a type of immigration permission that allows individuals to stay in the UK with close family members for over 6 months. It falls under the “Family of a Settled Person” route, where the sponsor (family member in the UK) must be a British citizen, have settled status, or have refugee/humanitarian protection.

Who Can Apply for a Family Visa UK?

You can apply for a UK Family Visa if you're:

• A spouse or civil partner of a British citizen or person with settled status
• An unmarried partner (living together for at least 2 years)
• A fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner
• A child under 18 joining a parent
• A parent joining a child in the UK
• An adult dependent relative (e.g. parent or grandparent who needs long-term care)

Requirements for Family Visa UK

The UK Home Office has strict eligibility requirements depending on your relationship. In general, applicants must show:

• A genuine and subsisting relationship
• Proof of adequate accommodation
• Evidence of financial support (meeting the minimum income requirement, where applicable)
• English language proficiency (for spouses/partners aged 18+)
• Tuberculosis test results (for residents of certain countries)

Minimum Income Requirement

If you're applying as a partner, your sponsor must earn at least £18,600 per year, plus more if children are applying too. This can be met through employment, savings, or self-employment.

How to Apply for a Family Visa UK

The application process depends on whether you're applying from outside the UK or inside the UK (for example, if you're switching visa types).

Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm your relationship type and check if you meet the requirements.
2. Gather Documents: Prepare your passport, proof of relationship, financial records, and other supporting documents.
3. Apply Online: Submit your application through the UK Government website.
4. Pay Fees: The visa fee ranges from £1,048 to £1,846, depending on the visa type and application location.
5. Book Biometrics Appointment: You’ll need to provide fingerprints and a photograph at a visa centre.
6. Attend an Interview (if required): In some cases, the Home Office may request an interview to verify your relationship.
7. Wait for a Decision: Most decisions are made within 12 weeks (outside UK) or 8 weeks (inside UK via standard service).

Documents You’ll Need

Your application must be supported with valid and up-to-date documents, including:

• A valid passport or travel document
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, photos, chat logs)
• Proof of income (payslips, bank statements)
• Accommodation details
• English language test results
• TB test results, if applicable

All documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by certified translations.

After You Apply

Once approved, you’ll receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or a vignette in your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK. Once in the UK, you must collect your BRP within 10 days.

How Long Can You Stay?

Family visas are generally granted for 2.5 years (30 months) and can be extended. After 5 years of continuous residence, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and later, British citizenship.

What If Your Application Is Refused?

If your family visa application is refused, you may be able to appeal the decision or submit a fresh application. It’s wise to consult an immigration solicitor if your case is complex or has been rejected.

Legal Help with Family Visa UK

Applying for a UK family visa can be stressful and confusing, especially with evolving immigration rules. Expert legal support can improve your chances of success, help you meet all requirements, and avoid unnecessary delays.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're joining your spouse, parent, or child in the UK, a Family Visa is your legal pathway to reunite with loved ones. Make sure you meet all criteria, provide strong evidence, and apply through the correct route.

If you’re ready to apply for a Family Visa UK, prepare your documents and start your online application today — or speak to an immigration adviser to guide you through every step.

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