This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current UK immigration policy. Confirm your visa requirements via Our UK Visa Guidance.
Focus phrase: Bring my family to the UK permanently.
Bringing your family to live in the UK permanently depends on your immigration status and the type of relationship you have with each family member. The UK immigration system offers a number of family routes that can lead to settlement, provided that specific eligibility and financial criteria are met. This page outlines the main visa options, required documents, and what to expect when applying for a UK family visa.
Understanding Family Visa Routes
Each family member’s eligibility depends on your own status in the UK (British citizen, settled person, or someone with refugee or humanitarian protection). The most common family visa categories include:
Partner or Spouse Visa
If you are married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term relationship with someone settled in the UK, your partner can apply to join you under the UK Family Visa route. The applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Prove a genuine and subsisting relationship
- Meet the English language requirement
- Show sufficient income or savings to meet the financial requirement (see UK Visa Fees 2025)
- Provide suitable accommodation for both partners
Child Dependent Visa
Children can join a parent in the UK if the parent is a British citizen, settled, or holds a valid visa route that allows dependants. The child must:
- Be under 18 at the time of application
- Be financially dependent on the parent
- Live with and be cared for by the parent in the UK
For documentation and upload guidance, see UK Visa Supporting Documents Digital Upload Guide.
Parent Visa
A parent of a British or settled child may apply to live in the UK if they are the child’s primary carer or share parental responsibility. This route can eventually lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain if eligibility is maintained. Learn more about financial requirements for parents in What Are the Financial Requirements for a UK Parent Visa?.
Other Family Members
Extended relatives, such as siblings, grandparents, or dependent adult relatives, can only move to the UK in limited circumstances. The Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) route may apply if the family member requires long-term personal care that cannot be reasonably provided in their home country. For more details, read UK Visa Refusals and Understanding Your UK Visa Refusal Letter.
Application Process
1) Determine Eligibility
Check the appropriate route based on your relationship type and immigration status. Review official Home Office criteria and supporting evidence guidance via our page on UK Family Visas.
2) Gather Supporting Documents
Prepare documents showing the family relationship, accommodation, financial stability, and English language ability. Organise and upload these through the Home Office portal using the Digital Upload Guide.
3) Submit the Application
Complete the online application form, pay the fees, and book an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre. Always ensure that information matches the documentation provided to avoid delays.
4) Wait for a Decision
Most UK family visa decisions are made within approximately 12–24 weeks, depending on the route and processing country. For timeframes and options for faster decisions, review UK Visa Priority Service Availability 2025.
Temporary Visit Option
If your family only intends to visit for a short period, the UK Standard Visitor Visa may be more suitable. See:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the UK family visa process take?
Family visa processing typically takes up to 24 weeks from the date of biometric submission. For quicker processing, applicants may be able to use the priority or super priority service—see UK Visa Priority Service Availability 2025.
Can I apply for all family members together?
Each application is assessed individually, but family members can apply at the same time. Ensure all applications include consistent and complete documentation to avoid delays or refusals.
Can my family work or study in the UK?
Most dependants under the family visa routes can work or study in the UK, except in limited cases (such as Adult Dependent Relatives). Always check the specific visa conditions after approval.
What if my family visa application is refused?
If refused, review the Home Office decision carefully and consider submitting additional evidence or appealing if you believe an error occurred. Guidance is available on Understanding Your UK Visa Refusal Letter and The 10 Most Frequent Reasons for UK Visa Rejections.
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025