👨👩👧 Reuniting with loved ones is one of the most common reasons people apply for a UK visa. The UK offers several immigration routes for spouses, partners, children, and dependent relatives of British citizens or settled persons.
This guide walks you through each family visa type, eligibility requirements, documents needed, and the steps to apply.
1. Spouse Visa
💍 A UK Spouse Visa allows foreign nationals married to British citizens or settled persons to join them in the UK.
Key requirements:
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Legal marriage or civil partnership recognized in the UK
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Both partners must be over 18
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Proof of genuine relationship and cohabitation
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Financial requirement: £18,600+ per year (more if children included)
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English language proficiency (CEFR A1 or higher)
🕒 Processing Time: Approx. 2–3 months
🗓️ Validity: 2.5 years (extendable, leads to ILR)
2. Unmarried Partner Visa
💑 For long-term partners (not married) who’ve lived together in a relationship for at least 2 years.
Key requirements:
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Evidence of cohabitation (joint tenancy, bills, etc.)
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Same financial and language criteria as Spouse Visa
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Both must intend to live together permanently in the UK
This route also leads to settlement (ILR) and citizenship.
3. Fiancé(e) Visa
💐 For those planning to marry in the UK within 6 months.
Key details:
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No employment allowed under this visa
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Must marry within 6 months, then switch to Spouse Visa
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Same financial and English requirements
This visa is ideal if you’re not yet married but plan to do so in the UK.
4. Child Dependent Visa
🧒 For children of British citizens or those with settled/pre-settled status.
Eligibility:
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Child must be under 18
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Not living an independent life (e.g., not married or employed full-time)
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Both parents (or sole parent) must live or be relocating to the UK
Children over 18 may apply only if already in the UK as dependents.
5. Adult Dependent Relative Visa
👵🏽 For elderly or disabled parents or relatives who require long-term care.
Strict criteria:
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Must prove care isn’t available or affordable in home country
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Long-term physical or mental health condition
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Sponsor must meet financial thresholds and prove ability to support
This is one of the most difficult visas to obtain due to high evidence thresholds.
6. Switching & Extending Family Visas
🔁 Most family visas allow you to apply for extensions or switch routes (e.g., Fiancé to Spouse, or Spouse to ILR).
Key timelines:
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Spouse/partner: Apply for extension before 30-month visa ends
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ILR: Usually available after 5 years in a family visa route
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Citizenship: After ILR + 1 year (or immediately if married to a British citizen)
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️ Common pitfalls in family visa applications include:
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Inadequate relationship proof (no photos, messages, or call logs)
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Missing financial documents or salary inconsistencies
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Submitting non-certified translations
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Incorrect visa type or form
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Not meeting English language requirements
A rejection delays reunification and adds costs—get legal guidance to do it right the first time.
🌟 Final Thoughts
The UK family visa process requires detailed documentation and strict eligibility. Whether you’re joining a spouse, partner, or child, working with immigration professionals helps avoid costly delays and ensures peace of mind throughout your application.
📞 Contact Borderless Lawyers
Let us help you reunite with your loved ones. Our experienced team handles every aspect of UK family visa applications, from document review to Home Office communication. Contact Borderless Lawyers today to get started with personalized support.