What is a Family Visa?

If you have the right to live in the UK, you may want to bring your spouse, partner, dependents, or other family members to join you here. It could be that you are a British Citizen, a foreign national or you have settled status. In all cases, you will need to apply for a Family Visa. This will allow your family member to enter the UK and stay for more than 6 months. If the applicant is visiting for less than 6 months, they may need a Standard Visitor Visa instead.

​

A Family Visa is available for the following list of family members:

• spouse or partner

• fiancé or proposed civil partner

• child or dependent under the age of 18

• parent

• relative who’ll provide long-term care for you

​

The Immigration Rules offer various complex routes to enter or remain in the UK. Our team will tailor our advice to the particular circumstances and needs of each client, they will make the process easier by providing legal advice which goes beyond the Home Office's own guidance. 

​

Can I extend my Family Visa?

If you have already entered the UK, you can apply to extend your stay with your family member. You have to do this before your current visa expires. If you're only extending the Family Visa to stay with the same family member, you may only be granted 28 days extension to your current visa. Otherwise, you may be able to apply for Settlement or Indefinite Leave to Remain if you have lived in the UK for a certain amount of time. 

​

How long does it take to apply for a Family Visa?

If you are applying for your Family Visa from outside of the UK, the process could take up to 12 weeks. Otherwise, if you are applying within the UK, a decision will be made within 8 weeks of your application submission. You can now apply for priority services to fast-track your application and get a decision within 5 working days. 

​

I need legal advice to apply for a UK Family Visa

MSD Solicitors are experts in immigration law and visa applications. Our team of experienced immigration solicitors can help you find out which type of visa you need to apply for and help you submit your application. We also correspond with the relevant legal bodies and provide clarity on government guidance, processes, and eligibility criteria. Our dedicated team can help you speed up your Family Visa application by ensuring that all required documents and supporting evidence are correctly organised. Get in touch today for a free consultation to discuss your unique requirements.

​