Migration Overseas
Since 1998
Complete guide to UK family visas for partners, children, parents and adult dependent relatives. Learn about income requirements, fees, processing times, and the full application process.
Partner visa from outside the UK: usually 12 weeks. From inside the UK: usually 8 weeks if you meet the financial and English requirements
GBP 29,000 a year combined income for partners, with no extra amount for children. No fixed amount for parents or adult dependent relatives
GBP 2,064 from outside the UK, GBP 1,407 from inside the UK, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge
ILR after 5 years for family of British citizens; citizenship once ILR is held (spouses of British citizens)
UK offers several family visa categories depending on your relationship status and family composition.
For legally married or civil partnerships
Must be legally married or in a civil partnership with the UK citizen/resident. Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate required.
You and your partner need a combined income of at least GBP 29,000 a year, with no extra amount for children. Savings can cover a shortfall: GBP 16,000 plus 2.5 times the shortfall.
Must have adequate housing for you and dependents. Proof of ownership, tenancy, or sponsorship letter required.
Pass an approved English test at CEFR A1 in speaking and listening (A2 when you extend) unless you are exempt, have a UK or Ecctis-assessed degree taught in English, or are a national of a listed majority English-speaking country. The Life in the UK test is needed later, for settlement.
For cohabiting partners and same-sex partners
Must have lived together for 2+ years. Documentation of cohabitation (bills, joint accounts, letters) required to prove relationship.
Same as spouse visa: GBP 29,000 a year combined income, with no extra amount for children.
Must provide evidence of 2 years cohabitation: shared tenancy, joint bank accounts, council tax bills, correspondence from government bodies.
Decisions are usually made within 12 weeks from outside the UK. Proof of 2-year cohabitation is required before application.
For children under 18 with UK resident parent
Child must be under 18 (or already hold family permission granted when under 18), live with the parent, and not be married or in a civil partnership.
A child follows the parent's visa type. For a parent on a partner visa the requirement is GBP 29,000 combined income, with no extra amount for children. If the child applies separately, proof of the parent's income is needed.
Birth certificates, passports, custody documents, evidence of financial support (maintenance payments, gifts) required.
If from previous relationship, need court order or agreement from other parent consenting to child's relocation to UK.
Confirm you meet relationship, financial, and English requirements. Gather all necessary documentation.
Collect evidence of relationship, financial stability, accommodation, and identity documents for all applicants.
Pass an approved English test at CEFR A1 in speaking and listening, unless you are exempt. Obtain the result before submitting the application. The Life in the UK test comes later, at settlement.
Create account on UK Visas and Immigration portal. Complete form, upload documents, and pay fees.
Attend appointment for fingerprints and photos. Complete health screening and medical examination.
Application processed and decision made. Success notification includes visa validity period and conditions.
Partner (new applicants): GBP 29,000 combined income a year
Children: no extra amount for new applicants
Extension, first applied before 11 April 2024: GBP 18,600 plus GBP 3,800 for the first child and GBP 2,400 for each additional child, capped at GBP 29,000
Parents and adult dependent relatives: no fixed amount; show you can be supported without public funds
The income of the partner from employment or self-employment, pension income, and certain other specified income and savings can count. Each source must be verified with documentation.
Savings can cover a shortfall: GBP 16,000 plus 2.5 times the difference between your income and GBP 29,000. With no income this is GBP 88,500.
Last 6 months of bank statements required. Income must be consistent and reliable. Benefits (except certain ones) may not count toward income threshold.
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