What this visa allows
- Work in the UK without restrictions.
- Study in the UK.
- Access NHS healthcare (after paying Immigration Health Surcharge).
- Apply for visa extensions and settlement after qualifying period.
- Travel in and out of the UK.
Resource Guide
Family Visa Requirements Explained
A UK Family Visa allows certain family members of British citizens, settled persons, or individuals with refugee or protection status to live in the United Kingdom. This visa enables families to live together in the UK long-term and in many cases eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British citizenship. Family visas usually allow the applicant to work, study, and access healthcare during their stay in the UK.
Family Visas10 min read
Eligible family members
- Spouse or civil partner of British citizen/settled person.
- Unmarried partner (lived together 2+ years).
- Fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner.
- Children under 18.
- Parent joining child in UK.
- Adult dependent relative (requiring long-term care).
Core eligibility requirements
- Sponsor is British citizen, has ILR, settled status, refugee status, or humanitarian protection.
- Genuine and subsisting relationship with sponsor.
- Adequate accommodation without public funds reliance.
- Meet English language requirement (A1 level initially).
- Sponsor meets minimum income requirement.
Financial requirements
Sponsor must meet minimum income of £29,000 per year for partner applications (higher with children). Income can come from employment, self-employment, pensions, savings, or rental income. Savings alone can meet requirement if they exceed threshold.
- Employment income.
- Self-employment income.
- Pension income.
- Savings (specific threshold).
- Rental income.
Relationship evidence
- Marriage/civil partnership certificates.
- Evidence of cohabitation (2 years for unmarried partners).
- Joint financial documents.
- Photos and communication records.
- Birth certificates (for children).
Accommodation requirement
Proof includes tenancy agreements, mortgage statements, or property inspection reports.
- Safe and suitable accommodation.
- Not overcrowded.
- Owned or legally occupied by sponsor.
English language requirement
Higher levels required for extensions and settlement. Exemptions apply for certain nationalities and older applicants.
- Approved English test at A1 CEFR level.
- Degree taught in English.
- National of majority English-speaking country.
Visa duration and fees
- Outside UK: 2 years 9 months initial grant.
- Inside UK: 2 years 6 months initial grant.
- Processing: 12 weeks (outside UK), 8 weeks (inside UK).
- Priority services available.
Settlement pathway
ILR allows permanent settlement without immigration restrictions.
- 5 years continuous residence on family route.
- Pass Life in the UK Test.
- Meet higher English language requirement (B2).
- Continue meeting relationship/financial requirements.
Common refusal reasons
- Financial requirement not met.
- Relationship not considered genuine.
- Insufficient supporting documents.
- Accommodation requirements not satisfied.
- English language requirement not met.
This guide is general information and not legal advice for specific facts. Immigration rules change regularly; always check the latest Home Office guidance before applying.