Family Visa
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What is a Family Visa?
A family visa allows you to join your family members in the UK. The UK government offers a range of visas for different family situations. A family visa can help you live, work, and sometimes study in the UK if you meet the eligibility requirements.
If you are a spouse, proposed civil partner, child, or even a parent of someone who is already in the UK, you may qualify for a family visa. This visa ensures that you can live together with your loved ones in the UK.
Who Can Apply for a Family Visa?
Family visas are for individuals who want to join a close family member who is already settled in the UK or who has British citizenship. Eligible family members may include:
What is the Application Process for a Family Visa?
The process for applying for a family visa can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, the steps include:
Prepare your documents: This may include proof of your relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate) and proof of your financial situation.
Submit the visa application: Applications are usually submitted online through the UK government’s visa portal.
Attend biometric appointment: You may need to submit fingerprints and a photo as part of your visa application.
Wait for a decision: After submitting your application, the UK Home Office will review it and make a decision. Processing times vary, but typically it can take several months.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for a Family Visa?
To be eligible for a family visa, you must meet certain requirements, which include:
Financial Requirements for a Family Visa
When applying for a family visa, one of the key requirements is the financial requirement. This means you or your sponsor must have enough income to support you and any dependents. The exact amount depends on the type of visa and how many dependents are included in the application.
For example:
For a spouse visa, the minimum income requirement is usually £29,000 per year, but this can increase if you have children.
You can also meet the financial requirement through savings, and other sources such as income from property.
What are the Benefits of a Family Visa?
How Long Can You Stay in the UK with a Family Visa?
The length of time you can stay in the UK on a family visa depends on the type of visa and your circumstances. For example:
After staying in the UK on a family visa for a certain number of years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Family Visa Fees and Healthcare Surcharge
When applying for a family visa, the cost will depend on several factors, including whether you are applying outside the UK or inside the UK, the type of family member you are joining, and the number of dependants included in your application. Below is a breakdown of the family visa fees and related charges for various situations.
Visa Fees for Joining a Partner, Parent, or Child
If applying from outside the UK: The fee is £1,938 per person.
If applying from inside the UK: The fee is £1,321 per person.
This fee applies when you are joining your partner, parent, or child in the UK.
Visa Fees for Additional Dependants
If applying from outside the UK: The fee is £1,938 for each dependant.
If applying from inside the UK: The fee is £1,321 for each dependant.
For any dependants included in your application, the same fees apply as the main applicant.
Fees for Adults Needing Care from a Relative
The fees for adults needing care depend on the type of permission your relative in the UK holds:
If your relative has temporary protection status (permission to stay as a refugee or with humanitarian protection), the cost is as follows:
£424 if applying from outside the UK.
£1,321 if applying from inside the UK.
If your relative does not have temporary protection status, the cost is higher:
£3,413 if applying from outside the UK.
£1,321 if applying from inside the UK.
Healthcare Surcharge
As part of your family visa application, you may also be required to pay the healthcare surcharge, which contributes to the NHS healthcare services during your stay. The surcharge depends on the length of your stay and whether you are an adult or a child:
For each adult (18 or older):
£2,587.50 for a stay of 2 years and 6 months.
£3,105 for a stay of 2 years and 9 months.
£5,175 for a stay of 5 years.
For each child (under 18):
£1,940 for a stay of 2 years and 6 months.
£2,328 for a stay of 2 years and 9 months.
£3,880 for a stay of 5 years.
Fast-Tracking Your Application with Super Priority Service
If you are applying from within the UK, you may have the option to pay an additional £1,000 for the super priority service. This service provides faster processing and decision-making for your application. However, please note that the super priority service is not available if you are applying as an adult coming to be cared for by a relative.
Fee Waivers
In some circumstances, you may be eligible for a fee waiver if you are unable to afford the application fees or healthcare surcharge. For example, if you are unable to secure housing or cover essential living costs, you may qualify for financial support and not have to pay the application fees.
Summary of Fees and Surcharges
Family visa fees range from £1,321 to £1,938 depending on whether you are applying inside or outside the UK, and the type of family member you are joining.
Healthcare surcharge depends on your age and length of stay, with amounts ranging from £1,940 to £5,175 for adults and children.
The super priority service is available for an additional £1,000 for quicker decisions on your application.
Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship.
Why Choose Bekenbey for Your Family Visa Application?
At Bekenbey, we have years of experience helping families successfully navigate the family visa application process. Here’s why you should choose us:
Expert Advice: Our team of immigration experts will guide you through every step of the family visa application process.
Visa Services: We provide tailored advice and assistance for all types of family visas, whether you are applying for a spouse visa, parent visa, or any other family visa type.
Personalized Approach: We understand that every family situation is unique. Our team will offer personalized solutions to ensure the best chance of success.
Apply for Your Family Visa Today with Bekenbey
Ready to family reunion with UK Visa? Contact Bekenbey today for expert help with your family visa application. Our immigration specialists will guide you through the process and help you make your dream of living with your loved ones in the UK a reality.
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Documents Needed
We’ve listed all the key documents required for your visa application to make your process as smooth as possible. Here are some common documents you may need to provide:
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