Want to Live with Your Family in the UK? Check your eligibility!

Highlights: UK Family Visa 2025: New Rules, Higher Income & Easier Switching

• Over 62,000 Family Visas were issued in 2023, showing strong demand for family migration to the UK.
• The visa allows spouses, partners, children, and parents of UK citizens or residents to join them in the UK.
• The income threshold rose to £29,000 in April 2024 and will increase to £38,700 by early 2025.
• Partner visas are granted for 2.5 years and must be extended before applying for ILR.
• Those in the UK on student or work visas may switch to a Family Visa if eligibility requirements are met.
   

*Want to apply for a UK visa? Let Y-Axis help you with the process.
 

UK Family Visa: Who Is Eligible to Join Their Family in the UK?

The UK Family Visa provides an important pathway for individuals who wish to live with their loved ones already settled in the United Kingdom. This visa is designed to support family reunification by allowing close family members of British citizens or those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to apply for residency in the UK.

The following categories of applicants may be eligible under the UK Family Visa route:
 

• Spouse or Civil Partner: If you are legally married to or in a registered civil partnership with a UK citizen or settled resident, you may apply under this category.
• Unmarried Partner: Individuals who have been living with their partner in a relationship similar to marriage for at least two years are eligible to apply.
• Fiancé(e) or Proposed Civil Partner: You may apply if you intend to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK within six months of your arrival.
• Parent of a British Child: If you have parental responsibility for a child who is a British citizen and is living in the UK, you may be eligible to join them.
• Dependent Child: Children under the age of 18 who are joining one or both parents legally residing in the UK may apply under the child visa category.
   

In addition to meeting the relationship criteria, applicants must also fulfil several supporting requirements to qualify for a UK Family Visa.
 

• Genuine Relationship: Must provide evidence of a real, ongoing, and legally recognised relationship.
• Financial Requirement: Sponsor must earn at least £29,000 annually (rising to £38,700 by early 2025).
• English Language Proficiency: Most adult applicants must pass an approved English language test, unless exempt.
• Adequate Accommodation: Must show proof of suitable housing in the UK without relying on public funds.
   

*Looking to apply for a UK Family visa? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the procedure.
 

UK Family Visa Fees

The table below has complete details of the UK Family Visa fees along with the Healthcare surcharges:

Category	Fee (GBP)
Visa Fee – Applying from outside the UK	£1,938
Visa Fee – Applying from inside the UK	£1,321
IHS – Adults (18 or older)	£2,587.50 to £5,175 (based on duration)
IHS – Children (under 18)	£1,940 to £3,880 (based on duration)

Note: Additional fees may apply if you are applying to be cared for by a relative, depending on their immigration status.

Also, read…

UK-India Sign Landmark Deal: More Job Opportunities for Indians in the UK

 

How to Switch to a UK Family Visa from Within the UK?

You can follow the below steps to switch to a UK family visa:

Step 1: Confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria for switching to a Family Visa.

Step 2: Gather all required documents to support your application.

Step 3: Complete and submit the online application through the official UK Home Office portal.

Step 4: Attend your biometric appointment at a designated UKVCAS centre.

Step 5: Wait for a decision on your application, which typically takes up to 8 weeks.
 

 

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with UK immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
 

For recent immigration updates on the UK, check out Y-Axis UK Immigration News!