Family is everything, and if you are planning to bring your loved ones to the UK, understanding family member visas is crucial. Many people have questions about eligibility, application processes, costs, and timelines. In this article, we answer the most commonly asked questions about UK family visas and provide the latest updates for 2025.
What are the eligibility criteria for family member visas in the UK?
To qualify for a family member visa, you usually need to be a close relative of a UK citizen or a person settled in the UK. Eligible family members typically include spouses, civil partners, children, parents, or other dependent relatives. Applicants must meet relationship, financial, and accommodation requirements set by the UK Home Office.
How can I apply online for a spouse visa to the UK?
You can apply online for a UK spouse visa through the official UK government visa website. You will need to create an account, fill out the application form, pay the visa fee, and book a biometric appointment at your nearest visa application center.
Which immigration services offer help with family visa applications?
Several immigration services and law firms specialize in family visa applications. Companies like LawSentis provide professional guidance, helping you complete forms accurately, gather required documents, and ensure that your application meets UK Home Office standards.
What are the costs involved in applying for family member visas in the UK?
Costs for family visas have increased as of 2025:
- Application fee (outside UK): £1,938
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) per adult per year: £1,035
- Total IHS for an initial 33-month visa: £3,105 (£1,035 x 3)
Priority or super-priority services are available for faster processing but involve additional fees.
Can I use a visa application service to speed up family visa processing?
Yes, many visa application centers and immigration firms offer priority or super-priority services to speed up processing. These services usually involve additional fees but can significantly reduce processing times.
Where can I find official UK guidance on family reunion visas?
Official guidance is available on the UK government website. This portal provides up-to-date information about eligibility, visa types, documents, and application procedures.
Are there companies that provide legal advice for UK family member visas?
Yes, licensed immigration firms like LawSentis offer legal advice and representation for family visas. They help navigate complex rules, appeal decisions if necessary, and ensure all documents are correctly submitted.
How long does it typically take to get a family member visa approved in the UK?
Processing times vary. While the official service standard for settlement visas outside the UK is 12 weeks, many applicants experience longer processing times, often 3-6 months (12-24 weeks), depending on the complexity of the case and country of application.
What documents do I need to submit for a dependent visa in the UK?
Commonly required documents include:
- Passport or travel document
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Proof of financial stability
- Accommodation evidence
- Tuberculosis test (if applicable)
- English language test certificate (if applicable)
Which online platforms allow me to track my family visa application status?
Once submitted, you can track your application via the UK government visa website or the visa application center portal where you booked your biometric appointment.
What are the different types of UK family visas?
The main family visas include:
- Spouse or partner visa
- Parent visa
- Child visa
- Dependent relative visa
- Family reunion visas for refugees
What is the points-based immigration system (PBS) and main visa types?
The UK operates under the Points-Based Immigration System (PBS). Common visa types include:
- Skilled Worker visa (formerly Tier 2)
- Student visa (formerly Tier 4)
- Temporary Worker visa (formerly Tier 5)
Family members may accompany main visa holders depending on the visa type.
Is there a family visa in the UK?
Yes, the UK offers family visas for spouses, partners, children, and dependent relatives of British citizens or settled persons.
What type of visa is for family?
Family visas include spouse visas, dependent child visas, parent visas, and other dependent relative visas.
Can I bring family on a Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, dependents of Skilled Worker visa holders can apply to join them in the UK, provided the main visa holder meets the income and sponsorship requirements.
What is a 2.5 year family visa in the UK?
A 2.5-year family visa is usually granted for spouses or partners of UK citizens or settled persons. After this period, you may apply to extend your visa for another 2.5 years or apply for indefinite leave to remain.
How many years is the UK family visa?
Initially, family visas are typically granted for 2.5 years (30 months) for applications from outside the UK. Extensions are available, usually for another 2.5 years.
How long can you stay in the UK with a 2-year visa?
A 2-year visa allows you to live in the UK for the full period. You may apply for extensions or indefinite leave to remain after meeting eligibility requirements.
Can you apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK after 2.5 years?
For most applicants on a spouse or family visa, you cannot apply for ILR after only 2.5 years. The standard route to settlement is the 5-year route, which involves:
- Initial visa grant for 2.5 years (30 months)
- Extension for another 2.5 years
- Eligibility to apply for ILR after completing 5 years of residence in total
Exception (very rare): In certain cases under the 10-year route, an applicant may apply for ILR after 2.5 years if refusing ILR would breach Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (family life) and there are insurmountable obstacles to continuing family life outside the UK. This is a high-threshold, exceptional application.
Who qualifies for a family visa?
Eligible applicants include spouses, civil partners, children, parents, and dependent relatives of British citizens or settled persons in the UK.
What are the requirements for a family visa?
Requirements include:
- Genuine relationship with the UK-based family member
- Financial minimum income (£29,000 for most new spouse/partner visa applicants)
- Adequate accommodation
- English language ability for adults
- Meeting health and character standards
Conclusion
Navigating UK family visas can be complex, from eligibility and application forms to financial requirements and timelines. Professional guidance ensures your application is complete, accurate, and submitted successfully. LawSentis offers expert immigration advice, helping you and your loved ones reunite in the UK smoothly. Our team assists with all family visa types, document preparation, and application tracking, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
Contact LawSentis today to discuss your family visa options and secure your UK move with expert support.