UK Family Visa Common Questions

Applying for a UK family visa can feel overwhelming, but knowing the basics makes the process much clearer. Below we answer the most common questions about family visas, eligibility, and costs.

You can apply for a family visa if you want to live with a close family member in the UK for more than 6 months. The most common routes include:

Spouse or partner visa – for married, civil, or unmarried partners of British citizens or settled persons.

Parent visa – if your child is living in the UK and is British, settled or have a form of protection status.

Child visa – for children of British citizens or settled persons.

Adult dependent relative visa – available in very limited circumstances for individuals who, due to age, illness, or disability, require long-term personal care with everyday tasks, and have no access to such care in their home country, but have close family in the UK who can provide it.

You will need to meet several eligibility requirements to be successful in your application. Learn more these in the links above. 

It can be challenging. Applicants must meet increasingly strict requirements, such as the minimum income threshold (£29,000 as of April 2024, due to rise further) and demonstrate proof of genuine relationships. Many refusals happen because financial requirements have not been met, or the evidence isn’t sufficient.

As of 2025, the application fee for the majority of family visas is £1,321 (in-country) or £1,938 (from overseas). If you are applying for the Adult Dependent relative visa this fee is £3,413 (from overseas) or £1,321 (in-country) as of 2025. In addition to the visa fee you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £1,035 per year. A 2.5-year visa therefore often costs over £4,000 per adult applicant.

Processing usually takes around 12 weeks if applying from abroad and slightly quicker from within the UK. Priority services may speed this up, but you will have to pay extra for it.

Yes, if granted, most family visas allow you to work and study in the UK without restriction.

The government sets fees above the actual processing cost. Fees and the IHS are also used to support the NHS and immigration system. 

If you are unsure whether you qualify or need help strengthening your application, our team of immigration lawyers can guide you through the process. Contact us below.