UK Family Visa Requirements (2026 Guide)

The UK Family Visa allows foreign nationals to join or remain with family members who are settled in the UK, British citizens, or those with refugee or humanitarian protection. This guide covers the main family visa routes — spouse and partner visas, dependent child visas — and the key requirements for each.

Last updated: June 2026

UK Family Visa Types

• UK Spouse Visa — For married partners of British citizens or UK settled persons
• UK Unmarried Partner Visa — For partners in a relationship of at least 2 years (not married)
• UK Civil Partner Visa — For civil partners of British citizens or settled persons
• UK Dependent Child Visa — For children under 18 joining a parent in the UK
• UK Parent Visa — For parents of a child who is a British citizen or settled in the UK

UK Spouse and Partner Visa Requirements

Eligibility

• The UK-based partner (sponsor) must be a British citizen, settled person (ILR), or in the UK on refugee leave or humanitarian protection
• Both partners must be 18 or over
• The relationship must be genuine and subsisting
• For unmarried partners: the couple must have lived together in a relationship for at least 2 years

Financial Requirement

This is the most important and most commonly failed requirement. From 2024 onwards:

• The UK sponsor must meet the minimum income threshold (check current UKVI guidance for the latest figure — the threshold increased significantly in 2024)
• Income can come from employment, self-employment, pension, or savings
• If the threshold is met through savings, a significantly higher savings amount is required
• Always verify the current threshold on gov.uk as it is subject to change

English Language Requirement

• The applicant (not the UK sponsor) must prove English language ability
• Accepted routes: pass an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) at CEFR level A1 or higher, or hold a degree taught in English, or be a national of a majority English-speaking country
• The language requirement increases at settlement and further leave stages

Accommodation

• Adequate accommodation must be available in the UK without recourse to public funds
• Evidence: tenancy agreement, mortgage statement, or property ownership documents

Documents Required for UK Spouse/Partner Visa

• Valid passport of the applicant
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate (for spouse/civil partner visa)
• Evidence of the genuine relationship — photos together, communication records, joint accounts, cohabitation evidence
• UK sponsor's financial evidence — payslips (6 months), P60, employer letter, or bank statements
• English language test certificate (if required)
• UK accommodation proof
• Sponsor's proof of British citizenship or settled status (passport, BRP, or share code)

UK Dependent Child Visa Requirements

• Child must be under 18 at the time of application
• At least one parent must be a British citizen, settled in the UK, or have leave to remain
• Both parents must consent to the move (or the applicant must have sole responsibility)
• Child must not be married or in a civil partnership
• Financial requirement applies — the sponsor must meet the income threshold

Application Process

1. Complete the online application at gov.uk
2. Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
3. Book a biometrics appointment at a VFS Global centre
4. Submit supporting documents
5. Wait for UKVI processing — family visas typically take 12–24 weeks from outside the UK
6. Receive decision — if approved, you receive a 30-month initial visa (extendable to settlement)

Visa Fees and Costs

• Application fee: approximately £1,846 from outside the UK (check gov.uk for current figure)
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): paid per year of visa validity — a significant additional cost
• English language test: £150–£200 approximately
• Total cost can be substantial — plan accordingly

Common Rejection Reasons

• Not meeting the minimum income threshold — the most common reason for refusal
• Insufficient evidence of genuine relationship — officers look for depth and duration of the relationship
• English language requirement not met
• Inadequate accommodation evidence
• Documents that appear inconsistent or incomplete

Official References

• UK Government — Family Visa Overview
• UK Government — Spouse Visa Requirements
• UK Government Visa Checker

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum income requirement for a UK spouse visa?

The minimum income threshold for UK family visas increased significantly in 2024. Check the current requirement on gov.uk before applying as the figure is subject to change by UKVI policy. The sponsor's income from employment, self-employment, or savings must meet the threshold.

How long does a UK spouse visa take to process?

UK family visa processing from outside the UK typically takes 12–24 weeks. A priority service is available in some countries for an additional fee. Check current processing times on gov.uk before applying.

Do I need to pass an English language test for a UK spouse visa?

Yes. Most applicants must demonstrate English at CEFR level A1 by passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT). Exceptions apply for nationals of majority English-speaking countries and holders of English-medium degrees.

How long is the initial UK spouse visa granted for?

The initial leave is typically 30 months (2.5 years). After this, you can apply for further leave of another 30 months. After completing 5 years of family visa leave, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR — settlement).

Can my children come with me on a UK spouse visa?

Yes. Dependent children under 18 can apply for a UK dependent child visa to accompany or join a parent in the UK. Each child requires a separate visa application, and the financial requirement applies to the total number of dependants included.