A UK family visa offers you the opportunity to reunite with your family members, be it a spouse, parent, or child. It is categorized into different types, and it's important to apply for the specific type that aligns with your family relationship. This article outlines the eligibility criteria, requirements, application process, and frequently asked questions related to the UK family visa.
If you have a family member looking to join you in the UK, the UK family visa allows you to facilitate their entry into the country for a long-term stay, exceeding six months. Should the family member intend to stay for a period of up to six months, they may apply for a tourist or visitor visa instead.
The UK family visa grants permission for extended residence and settlement in the UK, making the application process more complex compared to a UK visitor visa.
Depending on the family member you wish to bring to the UK, the relative must apply under specific categories:
1. UK Spouse visa: For bringing your spouse, fiancé, fiancée, partner, or proposed civil partner to the UK.
2. UK Parent visa: To bring your parents to the UK.
3. UK Child visa: If you intend to bring your child to the country.
4. People in need of long-term care: Close family members requiring long-term care from their children, grandchildren, or siblings permanently residing in the UK can also apply through family visas.
UK Ancestor visa.
As mentioned, the UK family visa encompasses various subcategories, each with distinct eligibility criteria and requirements:
1. Spouse visa:
2. Parent visa:
3. Child Visas:
4. People in need of long-term care:
The specific requirements for a UK family visa vary by subcategory, and additional supporting documents may be requested by British officials. Despite potential post-Brexit rule changes, a general list of requirements may include:
1. Passport: A valid passport, with a blank page if applying from outside the UK.
2. Personal information: Full name, date of birth, names of parents.
3. Previous immigration: Copies of documents related to prior immigration applications.
4. Criminal background: A history of criminal convictions or a clean record certificate.
5. TB test: Required for nationals from specific countries.
6. Insurance: Documentation of any existing insurance.
7. Email address: A verified email address for online application purposes.
8. Proof of funds: Documentation demonstrating the ability to financially support oneself in the UK.
9. Language proficiency: Proof of English language proficiency through approved language tests or qualifications.
10. Proof of relationship: Formal documents substantiating the relationship with the family member, such as birth or marriage certificates.
11. Biometric residence permit (if applicable).
12. Translation: Translation of original documents by a certified translator.
Following Brexit, family members of EU citizens may apply for pre-settled or settled status, depending on their arrival in the UK before or after December 31, 2020.
The application eligibility for pre-settled or settled status depends on the nature of the relationship.
The application process for a UK family visa varies by visa type. While general steps include creating an account on the UK visa and Immigration website, completing the application form, and submitting supporting documents, specific steps for each visa type should be explored individually.
1. Application: Initiate the application on the UK visa and Immigration website after registering with a valid email address.
2. Requirements: Collect the necessary documents specific to the chosen UK family visa type.
3. Submitting supporting documents: Choose a location for document submission through the UK visa and Immigration website, and schedule a meeting with the relevant center or embassy.
4. Processing: Wait for authorities to process the application, and provide any requested additional documents.
5. Visa collection: Upon approval, the visa will be mailed or made available for pickup.
Note: Note: The described procedure is a general guideline, and applicants should refer to specific visa articles for detailed steps.
Travelers entering the UK may be required to undergo a COVID-19 test, complete an online form outlining their stay details, and observe a ten-day quarantine at the provided address.
The length of stay under a UK family visa is contingent upon the family member's situation in the UK. If the family member is a citizen, the applicant can stay for the same duration. In the case of a family member with humanitarian protection or refugee status, the applicant can stay as long as the family member remains in the UK.
In conclusion, a UK family visa allows for family reunification, offering various categories such as parent, spouse, and child visas. The eligibility principles, some requirements, and the application process were outlined, emphasizing the need to refer to specific articles for comprehensive information. Readers are encouraged to share visa-related experiences and pose questions for assistance.
