UK Family Reunification Visa: Application Process
If you have family members residing in the United Kingdom and you wish to join them, the UK Family Reunification Visa is the ideal solution. It allows family members to migrate to the United Kingdom and live with their loved ones for an extended period. In this article, we will explore the application process for the UK Family Reunification Visa.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a UK Family Reunification Visa, you must meet certain requirements. You must be a:
- Spouse/civil partner
- Partner
- Child under 18 years of age
- Parent
- Dependent relative
You must also prove the following:
- You have sufficient funds to support yourself without recourse to public funds
- You have a good command of English
- You intend to live with your family member for an extended period
Application Process
The application process for a UK Family Reunification Visa is relatively straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide to the process:
Step 1: Gather Documents
The first step in the process is to gather all the necessary documents. The following documents will be required:
- Valid passport
- Proof of relationship with the family member residing in the UK
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Bank statements or pay slips for the last six months
- Proof of address
- Documents showing that you can financially support yourself
- Criminal record checks
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, the next step is to complete the online application form. You will be required to provide details about yourself and your family member residing in the UK. The application fee must be paid when submitting the application.
Step 3: Attend an Appointment
After submitting the application, you will need to attend an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services center. During the appointment, your biometric data will be collected, including your fingerprints and a digital photograph. You will also need to provide the original copies of the documents you submitted online.
Step 4: Wait for the Decision
After attending the appointment, you will be required to wait for a decision on your application. The processing time for a UK Family Reunification Visa is typically three months. If your application is successful, you will be issued a visa that allows you to live and work in the United Kingdom for an extended period.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the UK Family Reunification Visa:
1. How long can I stay in the UK with a Family Reunification Visa?
You can stay in the UK for up to five years with a Family Reunification Visa. After five years, you can apply for settlement in the UK.
2. Can I work in the UK with a Family Reunification Visa?
Yes, you can work in the UK with a Family Reunification Visa.
3. Can I apply for a Family Reunification Visa if I am outside the UK?
Yes, you can apply for a Family Reunification Visa from outside the UK.
4. Can I apply for a Family Reunification Visa if my family member is not a citizen of the UK?
Yes, you can apply for a Family Reunification Visa if your family member is a citizen of the UK or has settled status.
5. Can I extend my Family Reunification Visa?
Yes, you can extend your Family Reunification Visa before it expires. You will need to meet the eligibility requirements and submit a new application.