Family Visitor Visa: Visiting Family in the UK
The Family Visitor Visa allows individuals from outside the UK to visit family members who are settled in the UK for a short stay. This visa is ideal for family visits to relatives, including parents, children, siblings, or extended family, for a period of up to 6 months.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply for a Family Visitor Visa if:
- You are 18 years or older.
- You intend to visit family members who are UK citizens or have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- You plan to leave the UK at the end of your visit (within 6 months).
- You can financially support yourself during your stay or have a sponsor who can do so.
Eligible Family Members:
- Parents or grandparents.
- Siblings or children.
- Uncles, aunts, cousins, or other extended family members.
What You Can and Can’t Do on a Family Visitor Visa
What You Can Do:
- Stay in the UK for up to 6 months to visit family.
- Participate in tourism or recreational activities.
- What You Can’t Do:
- Work or take any paid or unpaid employment.
- Study for long periods (short courses of up to 30 days are allowed if they are not the main reason for your visit).
- Claim public funds or benefits.
- Stay longer than 6 months or switch to another visa while in the UK.
How Long Can You Stay on a Family Visitor Visa?
The Family Visitor Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. It cannot be extended, and you must leave the UK at the end of your visit.
Required Documents for the Application
Here’s an overview of the costs involved:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Invitation letter from your UK-based family member, confirming your visit and relationship.
- Proof of relationship: Documents showing your family connection, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other relevant documents.
- Proof of financial support: Either bank statements proving you can support yourself during your stay or evidence that your family member will financially support you.
- Accommodation details: Information about where you’ll be staying during your visit.
- Travel plans: Proof of return flight bookings or travel itinerary.
Visa Costs and Application Process
Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
- Visa application fee: £100 for a stay of up to 6 months.
- Application Steps:
- Complete the Online Application: Submit the visa application on the gov.uk website.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather the invitation letter, proof of financial support, and travel plans.
- Attend a Biometric Appointment: Provide your fingerprints and photo.
- Wait for a Decision: Visa applications are typically processed within 3 weeks, but it can take longer during peak periods.
Ready to Apply?
The Family Visitor Visa is a straightforward option for those wishing to visit family members in the UK for up to 6 months. With the proper documentation and a clear plan for your visit, the process can be simple and efficient.
If you need assistance with your application or have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
If you need assistance with your application or have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help guide you through the process.
