Applying for a family visa UK allows you to reunite with relatives, whether for a short visit or long-term settlement. This guide simplifies the process, highlights key requirements, and explains how Legal Assist ensures a stress-free experience. Let’s break it down—no jargon, just clarity!
What Is a UK Family Visa?
A UK family visa permits relatives to live, visit, or stay in the country legally. Whether you’re a parent, spouse, or child, you can apply for a family visa UK to:
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Visit family for holidays or events (up to 6 months).
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Live permanently with a spouse or parent.
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Join children settled in the UK.
Types of UK Family Visas
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Standard Visitor Visa: For short stays (e.g., holidays, family gatherings).
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Spouse/Partner Visa: To live with a British citizen or settled resident.
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Parent Visa: For parents of children under 18 who are UK citizens.
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Child Dependent Visa: For children joining parents in the UK.
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Adult Dependent Visa: For elderly relatives needing long-term care.
Note: The UK Parent Visa shares similarities with Australia’s Parent 103 visa but has stricter financial rules.
5 Steps to Apply for a Family Visa UK
Step 1: Check Eligibility
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Visitor Visa: Prove you’ll return home post-visit (e.g., job letter, property deeds).
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Spouse Visa: Show a genuine relationship (marriage certificate, shared finances) and meet the £18,600/year income threshold.
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Parent Visa: Confirm your child is settled in the UK and you’ll provide care.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
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Essential for All:
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Valid passport (6+ months’ validity).
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Proof of relationship (birth/marriage certificates).
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Financial evidence (bank statements, payslips).
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UK accommodation details.
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Additional for Long Stays:
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Tuberculosis test (if applicable).
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English language certificate (A1 level or higher).
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Step 3: Submit Online Application
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Complete the form on the UK Government’s visa portal.
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Pay fees: £115 for Visitor Visas; up to £3,580 for Parent Visas (including healthcare surcharge).
Step 4: Attend Biometrics Appointment
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Visit a visa centre to submit fingerprints and photos.
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Tip: Book slots early—peak seasons (summer/Christmas) get busy!
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
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Processing takes 3 weeks (Visitor Visa) to 24 weeks (Parent Visa).
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Track progress using your GWF reference number.
Financial Requirements Simplified
To apply for a family visa UK, you must prove financial stability:
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Spouse Visa: Sponsor must earn £18,600/year (plus £3,800 for the first child).
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Savings Option: £16,000+ in savings if income falls short.
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Third-Party Support: UK relatives can contribute with legal documentation.
Legal Assist helped the Thompson family combine savings and pension income to meet the threshold for their Parent Visa.
Avoid These 4 Common Mistakes
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Incomplete Applications: Fill every section of the form.
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Expired Documents: Ensure passports and certificates are valid.
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Late Applications: Submit 3 months before travel to avoid delays.
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Ignoring Translations: Foreign documents need certified English translations.
Processing Times & Costs (2024)
| Visa Type | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa | £115–£1,028 | 3–6 weeks |
| Spouse Visa | £1,846 + £1,872 | 8–12 weeks |
| Parent Visa | £3,580 | 24 weeks |
| Child Visa | £1,846 | 8 weeks |
Priority service (5–10 days) costs extra.
Life After Approval
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Collect Your Visa: Affix the vignette sticker to your passport.
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Travel to the UK: Enter within 30 days of the visa start date.
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Get Your BRP: Collect your Biometric Residence Permit within 10 days of arrival.
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Settle In: Register with a GP, schools, or local services.
Why Choose Legal Assist?
Legal Assist specialises in helping families apply for a family visa UK with:
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Free Eligibility Checks: Confirm your chances in a 30-minute call.
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Document Reviews: Experts spot errors (e.g., unsigned forms).
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Appeal Support: Strengthen refused applications with targeted evidence.
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Cultural Guidance: Access resources on UK schools and healthcare.
As Priya from Manchester shared: “Legal Assist’s checklist made our Spouse Visa application seamless!”
FAQs
Q: Can I work on a UK family visa?
A: Yes, on Spouse/Parent Visas. Visitor Visa holders cannot work.
Q: What if my child turns 18 during the process?
A: They may need to switch to an adult-dependent visa.
Q: Can EU nationals apply post-Brexit?
A: Yes, but they now follow the same rules as non-EU applicants.
Conclusion
Learning how to apply for a family visa UK is the first step toward reuniting with loved ones. With careful preparation and Legal Assist’s expertise, you’ll navigate the process confidently. Start today—your family’s future awaits!
Act Now: Download Legal Assist’s free “UK Family Visa Checklist” to stay organised!
