Understanding the UK Settlement Visa
A settlement visa is a type of visa issued to foreign nationals who wish to settle in the UK for a long-term period. This visa category is also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or a permanent residency visa. The settlement visa is a highly coveted visa as it ultimately leads to British citizenship, provided that the applicant fulfils certain requirements.
The UK settlement visa is issued to those who are interested in settling in the UK with a UK sponsor, be it a spouse, a civil partner, or a fiancé(e). It is intended for those who wish to stay in the country for an extended period of time, and eventually settle in it permanently.
Who is Eligible for a UK Settlement Visa?
To be eligible for a UK settlement visa, the applicant must be a non-EEA national who is at least 18 years old. They must also fulfil the following requirements:
– They must have lived in the UK for five or more years on a valid visa, and they must now want to settle in the UK permanently.
– They must have spent less than 180 days outside the UK during any 12-month period in the five years prior to applying for the settlement visa.
– They have no unspent criminal convictions.
– The applicant’s status in their current visa category must allow them to apply for settlement. For example, not all visas allow the holder to apply for settlement, regardless of how long they’ve stayed in the UK.
– They must meet the financial requirements laid down by the UK government.
– The applicant must meet the English language requirements, which involves taking an approved test.
Types of Settlement Visas
There are several types of UK settlement visas. Here are some of the most common ones:
– Spouse or partner visa: This visa is issued to non-EEA nationals who are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with settled status in the UK.
– Fiancé(e) visa: This visa category is issued to non-EEA nationals who are engaged to British citizens or a person with settled status in the UK.
– Dependent child visa: This visa category is issued to children who are dependents of British citizens or a person with settled status in the UK.
– Parent visa: This visa category is issued to parents of British citizens or a person with settled status in the UK.
– Work visa: This category is issued to individuals who have been living in the UK on a work visa, and now want to make the UK their permanent home.
How to Apply for a UK Settlement Visa
If you are eligible for a UK settlement visa, you can apply for it online. The process begins with completing an application form on the UKVI website. You will then be required to pay the application fee, which varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
After submitting your application, you will need to attend an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your home country. During this appointment, your biometrics will be taken, and your fingerprints and facial image will be recorded. You will also be required to submit supporting documents like your passport, proof of financial support, and proof of English language proficiency.
The processing time for a settlement visa is usually six months, but it may take longer if the UKVI needs to conduct additional checks or if there are any complications with your application.
Financial Requirements for a UK Settlement Visa
To be eligible for a UK settlement visa, you must meet the financial requirements laid down by the UK government. This involves proving that you have enough money to support yourself and your family without relying on public funds.
The financial requirement varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and depends on the sponsor’s income. In most cases, the sponsor must be earning at least £18,600 per year. If they are also sponsoring children, the amount increases.
FAQs
Q. Can I work in the UK with a settlement visa?
A. Yes, you can work in the UK with a settlement visa.
Q. What is the validity of a UK settlement visa?
A. The UK settlement visa is usually valid for five years, after which you can apply for British Citizenship.
Q. Can I leave the UK on a settlement visa?
A. Yes, you can leave the UK on a settlement visa, but you must ensure that you do not spend more than 180 days outside the UK during any 12-month period, as it may affect your eligibility for British citizenship.
Q. Can I apply for a settlement visa in the UK?
A. You must apply for a settlement visa outside the UK.
In conclusion, the UK settlement visa is a highly-coveted visa, and obtaining one requires careful planning and preparation. The process can be lengthy and complicated, but with the right guidance and support, you can successfully apply for a settlement visa and make the UK your permanent home.