Family and Settlement Visas
For partners and children joining someone British or settled in the UK, and for the indefinite leave to remain that follows.
Spouse and Partner Visa
The partner route is for spouses, civil partners and unmarried partners of a British citizen or someone settled in the UK. It centres on a genuine and subsisting relationship, a published minimum income, suitable accommodation and an English language requirement, each evidenced in specific ways. Permission is granted for an initial period and leads to settlement after a qualifying time on the route.
Child Visa
Child routes cover children under 18 joining a parent in the UK, either as the dependant of a points-based worker or student, or on the family route to a British or settled parent. The requirements focus on the relationship, the child's age and dependence, and the parent's ability to maintain and accommodate them.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Indefinite leave to remain is settlement: the point at which a person can live in the UK without time limit. Family-route applicants normally become eligible after a qualifying period of continuous residence, subject to the published requirements including the Life in the UK test and English language.
Requirements common across this category.
- Relationship evidenceEvery family route requires documented proof of the qualifying relationship, such as certificates and evidence the relationship is genuine and continuing.
- Financial requirementPublished maintenance or minimum-income levels apply, and vary by route and circumstances.
- English languageMost adult applicants must meet a published English language requirement; children are exempt.
- Suitable accommodationApplicants must show there is adequate accommodation for the family without recourse to public funds.
Can time on a family visa count towards settlement?
Do family visas allow work?
Which family route applies to me?
Not sure which route fits?
Book a consultation and one of our immigration solicitors will go through your situation, the route options, and what happens next.