Bringing a loved one to live with you in the UK can be a complex or confusing process. Whether you’re hoping to reunite with a partner, child or parent, it’s important to understand how UK immigration and family sponsorship works, what visa options are available and what the requirements are. Here’s the essential info you need to get started.
How does family sponsorship work within UK immigration?
Family sponsorship refers to the process where a British citizen or someone settled in the UK (holding indefinite leave to remain, settled status or permanent residence) sponsors a close family member to join them in the country. To do this, you must meet certain financial and accommodation requirements and commit to supporting the applicant so they do not depend on public funds. It can be a good idea to obtain immigration legal advice to make sure you’re clear on the requirements in your particular circumstances.
Understanding family visas in the UK
There are different types of UK family visas. Each route comes with its own requirements, but the general process of application is similar across categories.
Spouse Visa (or Partner Visa)
This visa allows a husband, wife, civil partner or long-term partner of a British or settled person to live in the UK. It is one of the most common routes for family reunification.
Child Visa
This is for dependent children under 18 who need to join a parent living in the UK.
Parent Visa
This may apply when a parent needs to join a child who is already living in the UK (in some specific circumstances).
UK Spouse Visa requirements
If you’re sponsoring a spouse or partner to live in the UK, you’ll need to meet certain requirements to demonstrate they can settle here without relying on public funds.
- Relationship proof: You must show you are in a genuine relationship. Married couples must provide a valid marriage certificate, while unmarried partners must usually have lived together for at least two years.
- Financial requirement: You and your partner must usually earn a combined income of at least £29,000 per year (subject to change). It may be possible to meet this requirement through proof of savings or certain other income sources.
- Accommodation: You must have adequate living arrangements in place that comply with UK housing standards.
- English language ability: Depending on which country they’re applying from, the applicant must meet the English language requirement, typically through an approved test or qualification.
The process of sponsoring a family member to live in the UK
1, Confirm eligibility and requirements
Before applying, both the sponsor and applicant should review the visa route they are eligible for. This includes understanding income rules, relationship requirements and what supporting evidence may be needed.
2, Gather documentation
Key documents you may need include proof of relationship, financial evidence (such as payslips and bank statements), passports, accommodation details and the English language certificate.
3, Complete the online application
Family visa applications are completed online through the UK government website. The applicant will also need to pay the visa fee and most people will need to pay an Immigration Health Surcharge too.
4, Attend a biometrics appointment
The applicant must provide fingerprints and a photograph at a visa application centre. You’ll be told how to make this appointment when you make your application.
5, Provide supporting documents
Documents need to be uploaded digitally or provided at the appointment, depending on the circumstances and where you’re applying from.
6, Wait for a decision
Processing times vary, but if you apply from within the UK, you can expect a decision within about eight weeks. If you apply from outside the UK, it’ll be around 12 weeks before you know if your visa has been granted. If successful, you’ll be told how to access your visa with your decision document.
For legal advice on UK immigration and family sponsorship, contact Amicus Law today.