Immigration Services
Family Visa
Keeping Families Together in the UK
At a Glance
- Processing Time
- 12-24 weeks
- Legal Fees
- £1,200 – £2,500
- Documents Required
- 11 items
- Process Steps
- 5 stages
Overview
About the Family Visa
The UK Family Visa covers a range of routes allowing family members — including children, parents, and other dependants — to join or remain with settled family members in the UK. Each route has specific eligibility requirements, and expert advice is essential to identify the most appropriate pathway for your family..
Eligibility Criteria
- You are the child, parent, grandparent, or other eligible family member of a British citizen or person settled in the UK
- The UK-based family member has British citizenship, ILR, or settled status
- You meet the specific eligibility requirements for your relationship category
- The UK sponsor can demonstrate adequate accommodation and financial support
- You meet the English language requirement (if applicable to your route)
- The application is in the best interests of any children involved
- Neither party falls for mandatory refusal on grounds of criminality or previous deception
Not sure if you qualify? Book a free eligibility assessment with one of our specialist solicitors.
How It Works
The Application Process
A step-by-step guide to your Family Visa application, managed by our specialist solicitors from start to finish.
- 1
Route Identification
1-2 daysWe identify the most appropriate family visa route for your circumstances and explain the specific requirements, evidence needed, and realistic prospects of success.
- 2
Evidence Strategy
1-2 weeksWe develop a tailored evidence strategy addressing the specific requirements for your relationship category, including dependency, sole responsibility, or serious and compelling circumstances.
- 3
Document Preparation
1-3 weeksWe review and advise on all supporting documents, ensuring translated documents are certified and all evidence meets Home Office standards.
- 4
Application Submission
2-3 daysWe prepare and submit a complete application with a detailed cover letter addressing each requirement and presenting your family's circumstances compellingly.
- 5
Decision & Next Steps
12-24 weeksWe advise on your leave conditions upon approval and plan the pathway to long-term settlement for your family.
Documentation
Document Checklist
Prepare the following documents for your Family Visa application. Our solicitors will review everything before submission.
- Applicant's valid passport and travel documents
- UK family member's passport and proof of status (ILR, British citizenship)
- Birth certificates establishing family relationship
- Evidence of the UK family member's financial means and accommodation
- For child applications: evidence of parental responsibility and consent from absent parent
- For parent applications: evidence of sole responsibility for or serious and compelling circumstances relating to child in the UK
- For adult dependant relatives: medical evidence of long-term personal care requirement
- Translation of all non-English documents by a certified translator
- English language evidence (if required for route)
- Any court orders relating to children
- Evidence of any previous UK visa applications
Missing documents? Our solicitors can advise on alternatives and how to obtain the necessary paperwork.
Get Document HelpQuestions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Family Visa — answered by our specialist solicitors.
Have a question that is not answered here?
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Ready to Start Your Family Visa Application?
Our specialist solicitors are ready to guide you through every stage of the process. Book a consultation today and get expert advice tailored to your circumstances.