UK Visas – Family Visa

Reuniting with loved ones shouldn’t be complicated. A UK Family visa allows eligible family members of British citizens or settled individuals to join, accompany, or remain in the UK on a long-term basis.

Who can apply?

Different routes exist depending on your relationship:

• Fiancé(e): Planning to marry or enter a civil partnership in the UK
• Spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner: Joining your partner who is British or settled
• Child: Joining a parent who is British or settled or a parent holding a Family visa
• Parent: Joining a British or settled child
• Adult dependent relative: Where long-term care is needed and not available in your home country.

Key requirements

Eligibility varies by category, but generally you’ll need to show:

• You meet the age requirement (18+ for adults)
• You satisfy the financial requirement
• Evidence of your relationship
• English language ability (for some categories).

What does it allow?

With a Family visa, you can live, work, and study in the UK. Initial permission is usually granted for 33 months, you can extend a further 30 months with routes to settlement after five years (or ten years if you meet only some requirements).

How do you apply?

You can apply up to three months before your intended travel date. The process involves:

• Completing an online application form
• Enrolling biometric data
• Submitting supporting evidence.

Applications must be made from your home country or usual country of residence before travelling to the UK.

Fees and health surcharge

Home Office fees vary by category.

You’ll also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, calculated based on how long your visa is granted.

Processing times

Processing times vary depending on the application type, with some applications taking up to 12 months. More typically, however, processing times are as follows:

• Overseas applications: Standard processing up to 12 weeks; priority service can reduce this to six weeks
• In-UK applications: Standard processing up to eight weeks; super priority service can deliver a decision within 24 hours.

How can we support you?

We provide clear, pragmatic advice, guide you through the process, and anticipate challenges, whether it’s meeting financial thresholds or proving your relationship. We work proactively to secure the best outcome for your family.