Being one of the very first individuals who have been received working in the discipline of UK immigration, I feel elated to share my observations on the UK's family visas. This ultimate guide will go step by step through everything that you have to know like types of visas to application processes and costs.
Understanding Family Visas in the UK
Family visas work as a method for the UK to preserve families. The truth is that through these visas non-UK residents can transfer their family members to be with them in the United Kingdom. Although the process can be complex, yet with the correct information and help, it remains a straightforward thing.
Types of UK Family Visas
There are several different family visa options for various types of relationships with a UK person:
- Spouse or Partner Visa
- Child Visa
- Parent Visa
- Adult Dependent Relative Visa
- Family Visitor Visa
Since the visa types are different, the set of requirements and conditions of each visa is particular, we will present them in a more detailed way.
Family Visa UK Requirements: General Overview
Though the detailed criteria differ upon the kind of visa yet a few common requirements are always there for family visas:
- Confirmed that the relationship with your UK family member is real
- Showing evidence of adequate finances
- A suitable place to live in the UK
- Language English proficiency (for some visa types)
- Good background (no serious criminal record)
The most vital thing is to thoroughly check the requirements for the kind of visa that you want.
Spouse or Partner Visa: Uniting Couples
Are you the spouse or are you in a genuine and long relationship with the UK system? This might be the visa for you.
Prove that a real, ongoing relationship exists between you and your partner.
Achieve a minimum income of £18,600 per year.
Enough accommodation for the family
Level A1 or higher proficiency in the English language
Child Visa: Bringing Your Kids to the UK
This type of visa is designed for those who wish to bring their children who are aged 18 years or less to the UK after the parents. The major requirements are as follows:
Establishing the child as a real child to one of the parents in the UK
The creation of the evidence showing that the child will be properly housed and maintained
The presence of the consent of both parents if only one is in the UK
Family Visitor Visa UK Requirements: Short-term Stays
At one time a family visit visa to the UK will be either your favorite way or the best one. The main requirements are as follows:
Show that you and your UK family member are related
Show evidence of sufficient funds to sustain you during your stay
Your intention to withdraw from the UK at the end of your visit
Your details of accommodation in the UK
Do not forget that this visa is neither for working in the UK nor for settling here in the long run.
The Application Process: Step by Step
As an applicant, you are supposed to complete a number of steps in the family member visa process:
- Collect all the documents necessary
- Fill out the online application form
- Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable)
- Making a booking of and attending biometric appointment
- Hand over the documents to the authorities
- Wait for a conclusion (Durations for processing vary)
The process can be frustrating, but breaking it down into smaller pieces makes it feasible.
Family Visa UK Cost: Understanding the Fees
The fee of a family visa ranges according to the kind of visa you are looking for and the place you are applying from. At my last update, the fees for the applicant ranged from £1,523 for a spouse visa to £3,250 for an adult dependent relative visa. Besides, you may also have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is at the moment £624 for adults and £470 for children.
Be aware of the fact that the fee structure is prone to changes, so always check the official UK government website to get the most up-to-date details.
Getting Help with Your Application
UK visa system navigation sometimes becomes so tricky that many people escape it. But this should not be the case.Legal Assist, we are the top-notch visa expediting service in reuniting the families in the UK.
Always remember, even if the family visa thing seems to be complicated, you will solve it with good advice and hard work. Whether your spouse is coming over, your kids are attending you, or you are planning for a family visit, knowing the rules and procedures will get you a good result.
As somebody who has experienced it, I can give you my word that the joy that comes with meeting your loved ones in the UK feels really out of this world. All the best with your family visa application, and never shy away from getting expert help if you require it!
