UK Family Visa: Reuniting with Loved Ones in Britain

The UK family visa routes allow British citizens and settled residents to bring their close family members to live with them in the United Kingdom. Our family immigration solicitors in Bolton guide you through the main routes.

The Spouse and Partner Visa

The most commonly used family visa, the spouse/partner visa allows the husband, wife, civil partner or long-term partner of a British citizen or settled person to join them in the UK. The key requirements include the £29,000 income threshold, adequate accommodation and an English language test. The initial visa is granted for 33 months and can be extended toward settlement after 5 years.

Child Visas

Children under 18 who are not British citizens can apply to join a parent settled in the UK. Both parents must ordinarily consent to the child’s relocation, unless one parent holds sole parental responsibility. The child must meet financial and accommodation requirements linked to the sponsoring parent’s means.

Adult Dependent Relative Visa

One of the most restrictive family visa routes, the Adult Dependent Relative visa allows parents, grandparents and siblings to join a settled person or British citizen, but only if they require long-term personal care that cannot reasonably be provided in their home country. Applications are rarely successful without expert legal preparation.

Refugee Family Reunion

Refugees who have been granted protection in the UK may be able to bring their spouse/partner and children under 18 to the UK through the Refugee Family Reunion route, provided the family relationship existed before the refugee left their home country. No application fee is charged for these applications.

Financial Requirements and the Income Threshold

The 2024 increase to the income threshold — to £29,000 — was a significant change that has affected thousands of families. Under the 2025 Immigration White Paper, further changes may be implemented. Careful financial planning and early legal advice is essential to ensure you can satisfy the requirement at the time of application.