Parent Visas: Joining Your Child in the UK
The Parent Visa allows non-UK citizens to live in the UK to care for their child who is either a British citizen, has settled status, or has lived in the UK for at least 7 years. This visa is ideal for parents who want to be actively involved in their child’s life and can’t meet the requirements for a Spouse or Partner Visa.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Parent Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- English Language Requirement: You must prove you can speak and understand English at the required level (unless you are from an English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English).
- Financial Requirement: You must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself without relying on public funds.
- Living and Parenting Arrangements:
- You must either have sole responsibility for the child or be playing an active role in their upbringing.
- The child must be under 18 years old and not living an independent life.
- Parental Relationship: You must be the parent of a child who is:
- A British citizen or has Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- A child who has lived in the UK for at least 7 years (and it would not be reasonable for them to leave the UK).
Required Documents for the Application
The Global Talent Visa stands out for its incredible flexibility and range of benefits:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Proof of relationship: Birth certificate or court documents showing you are the parent of the child.
- Proof of the child’s status: Documents showing the child is a British citizen or has settled status.
- Proof of involvement in the child’s life: This can include court orders, shared custody arrangements, and evidence that you are actively parenting the child.
- Proof of financial means: Bank statements, payslips, or savings to show you can support yourself.
How Long Can You Stay on a Parent Visa?
The Parent Visa is usually granted for 2.5 years. After this period, you can apply to extend the visa for another 2.5 years.
After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on a Parent Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which provides permanent residency.
After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on a Parent Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which provides permanent residency.
Can You Work or Study on a Parent Visa?
Yes, the Parent Visa allows you to:
- Work in the UK (full-time or part-time).
- Study at UK educational institutions.
- There are no restrictions on employment or study, giving you the freedom to build a career or pursue education while living in the UK.
Visa Costs and Application Process
Here’s an overview of the costs involved:
- Visa application fee: The fee varies depending on whether you apply from outside or within the UK.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): An annual charge for adults, paid upfront for the entire duration of the visa.
- Application Steps:
- Complete the Online Application: Submit the visa application through the gov.uk website.
- Prepare Required Documents: Collect the necessary documents showing proof of your relationship, financial means, and your child’s UK status.
- Attend a Biometric Appointment: Provide your fingerprints and photo.
- Wait for the Decision: The decision typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to be processed.
Conclusion
The Parent Visa provides a pathway for parents to live in the UK to care for their child, giving them the opportunity to participate fully in their child’s life. With the correct documents and meeting the eligibility criteria, the application process is straightforward.
If you need assistance with your application or have questions about the visa process, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
If you need assistance with your application or have questions about the visa process, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
