UK Family Visas

Being separated from loved ones is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can face. At MCR Solicitors in Manchester, we understand the emotional and practical challenges of family separation, and our dedicated immigration team is committed to helping families reunite in the United Kingdom. We have helped hundreds of families successfully navigate the UK family visa system, from spouse visas to parent visas and child visas.

The UK family visa system allows British citizens and settled persons to bring their family members to live with them in the UK. However, the requirements are strict and the application process can be complex. Our experienced solicitors understand every aspect of family immigration law and can guide you through the process to maximise your chances of success.

Types of UK Family Visas

The UK offers several routes for family members to join their loved ones. Understanding which visa category applies to your situation is essential for a successful application.

Spouse and Civil Partner Visas

The spouse visa (also known as the partner visa or marriage visa) allows you to join your husband, wife, or civil partner in the UK. Key features:

• For legally married couples or civil partners
• UK sponsor must be a British citizen or have settled status
• Minimum income requirement of ¶œ29,000 per year
• Initial visa granted for 2.5 years
• Route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years
• Pathway to British citizenship

For detailed information, visit our dedicated Spouse Visa page.

FiancǸ and Proposed Civil Partner Visas

If you plan to marry or enter a civil partnership in the UK, you can apply for a fiancǸ visa. This allows you to:

• Enter the UK for up to 6 months
• Marry or register your civil partnership in the UK
• Switch to a spouse visa after your marriage
• Cannot work during the 6-month fiancǸ visa period

You must meet the same financial and relationship requirements as spouse visa applicants, and the marriage must take place within 6 months of arrival.

Unmarried Partner Visas

For couples who are not married but have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years. Requirements include:

• Evidence of 2 years cohabitation
• Same financial requirements as spouse visas (¶œ29,000)
• Same route to settlement (ILR after 5 years)
• Proof that your relationship is genuine and subsisting

Parent Visas

Parents of children living in the UK may be able to apply for a parent visa. There are different routes depending on your circumstances:

Parent of a British Child

If you have a British citizen child under 18 living in the UK, you may be able to apply for leave to remain on the basis of your relationship with your child. Requirements include:

• Your child must be a British citizen
• Your child must live in the UK
• It must be unreasonable to expect the child to leave the UK
• You must have an active role in your child's life

Parent of a Child with Access Rights

If you have access rights to a child in the UK (following separation from their other parent), you may qualify for leave to remain to continue exercising those rights.

Child Visas

Children under 18 can join their parents in the UK through the child visa route. Key considerations:

• At least one parent must be in the UK with valid immigration status
• The child must be under 18 at the time of application
• Adequate accommodation and maintenance must be available
• Children follow their parent's immigration route to settlement

Adult Dependent Relative Visas

The adult dependent relative visa is one of the most difficult family visas to obtain. It allows elderly parents or grandparents to join family in the UK if they require long-term personal care that cannot be provided in their home country. Requirements are extremely strict:

• The applicant must require long-term personal care due to illness, disability, or age
• The care must not be available or affordable in their home country - even with financial support from the UK sponsor
• The UK sponsor must be able to maintain, accommodate, and care for them without recourse to public funds

Success rates for adult dependent relative visas are very low due to the stringent requirements. We can assess whether you might qualify.

Requirements Overview

All family visa applications must meet certain core requirements:

Relationship Requirement

You must prove your relationship is genuine and subsisting. Evidence includes:

• Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate (for spouse/partner visas)
• Evidence of living together (for unmarried partners)
• Birth certificates showing relationship (for parent/child applications)
• Photographs, communication records, and shared commitments

Financial Requirement

The UK sponsor must demonstrate sufficient income to support the family without recourse to public funds:

• Spouse/partner (no children): ¶œ29,000 per year
• With children: Higher thresholds apply
• Alternative evidence: Cash savings, self-employment income, or combined income may be considered

English Language Requirement

Most family visa applicants must prove English language ability:

• Initial visa: A1 level (basic)
• Extension: A1 level
• ILR (settlement): B1 level (intermediate)

Accommodation Requirement

You must have adequate accommodation without relying on public housing. Evidence includes:

• Proof of property ownership or tenancy
• Evidence the property is not overcrowded
• Landlord permission (if renting)

The Application Process

Family visa applications follow a similar process regardless of the specific visa type:

Step 1: Assess Eligibility

Contact MCR Solicitors for a comprehensive eligibility assessment. We will review your circumstances and advise on the best approach.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Collect all required evidence according to our detailed checklist. We review every document to ensure it meets Home Office requirements.

Step 3: Apply Online

Complete the application on gov.uk and pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.

Step 4: Biometric Appointment

Attend a visa application centre to provide fingerprints and photograph.

Step 5: Wait for Decision

Processing times vary by visa type and location. Standard spouse visa processing is approximately 24 weeks.

Step 6: Travel to UK

Once approved, collect your visa and travel to the UK within the validity period.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a UK family visa cost?

Family visa fees vary by type. Spouse visas cost ¶œ1,846 plus Immigration Health Surcharge (¶œ1,035 per year). Total initial costs are typically ¶œ4,500-5,000. Child visas have the same fees. FiancǸ visas cost ¶œ1,846 with no IHS.

How long does a family visa application take?

Standard processing for spouse visas is currently 24 weeks (approximately 6 months). Priority services may be available to reduce this to 5-10 working days for an additional fee.

Can my family member work on a family visa?

Yes, family visa holders (spouse, partner, parent, child aged 18+) can work in the UK without restrictions. There are no limits on the type of work or hours.

What if my family visa is refused?

You may be able to request an Administrative Review or appeal to the Immigration Tribunal (if the decision engages human rights). Alternatively, you can submit a fresh application addressing the reasons for refusal.

Can I apply for my spouse and children together?

Yes, your spouse and dependent children under 18 can be included in the same application. Each family member pays separate fees.

What is the minimum income requirement for family visas?

The minimum income requirement for spouse and partner visas is ¶œ29,000 per year (as of 2024). This increased from the previous ¶œ18,600 threshold. Alternative evidence such as savings may be used if income is insufficient.

How long until my family member can get permanent residence?

Most family visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK. They must meet the English language requirement (B1 level) and pass the Life in the UK test.

Contact Our Family Visa Specialists in Manchester

At MCR Solicitors, we understand how important it is to be with your family. Our dedicated immigration team has helped hundreds of families reunite in the UK, and we are ready to help you too.

Call us today: 0161 466 1280

Visit us: First Floor, 1024 Stockport Road, Manchester M19 3WX

We offer consultations in person at our Manchester office, by telephone, and by video call. Contact us to discuss your family visa needs with our expert immigration solicitors.