The family reunion visa application procedure in the UK

The family reunion visa or “Spouse Visa” application procedure – a detailed application guide

The family reunion visa application procedure can seem complicated, especially when it concerns something as important as being reunited with the person you love. For those thinking of joining their partner in the United Kingdom, the Family Reunion Visa is a very important step. This guide aims to demystify the family reunion visa process, explaining what it involves and how to apply successfully.

What is the UK Spouse Visa?

The family reunion visa, also known as the Spouse Visa, allows non-British citizens to join their partners in Great Britain. This visa is designed for couples who are legally married or living together as partners and who want to live together in the UK.

What requirements do you need to meet?

To qualify for the family reunion visa, the applicant and the sponsor (a British citizen or a person with permanent residence) must meet the following criteria:

Relationship requirements:
You must be legally married or living together as partners. Your relationship must be genuine and proven. You must have lived together for at least two years, or you must be legally married.

Financial requirements:
The sponsor must prove that they have an annual income of at least £29,900.

If you have children, the required annual income increases by an additional £2,400 for each child.
Alternatively, you can meet the financial requirements through savings or a combination of income and savings.

English language requirement:
The applicant must prove that they can speak and understand English. This can be done by passing an approved English language test.

Accommodation:
You must have suitable accommodation for both you and your partner, without relying on public funds.

Immigration history:

You must not have a criminal record and must not have breached immigration rules in the United Kingdom.

How do you apply for the Spouse Visa?

Gathering your documents:
Proof of relationship: marriage certificate, photos together and any other document showing that the relationship is genuine.

Financial evidence:

Bank statements, payslips or other documents proving income and/or savings.
Proof of English: test results or certificate.
Proof of accommodation: evidence of suitable accommodation.
Identity documents: passports, birth certificates and biometric residence permits (if applicable).

Completing the application form:
The application is made online through the UK government website. You will need to create an account, complete the form and pay the application fee.

Attending the application centre:
After submitting your application, you will be asked to attend an appointment where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. This is usually done at a local visa application centre.

Submitting your documents:
Depending on where you are, you may need to send your documents to a processing centre or upload them online.

Decision time: Processing times for a family reunion visa application can vary, but it usually takes around 2-3 months. During this period, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will review your application and documents.

After the visa is approved

Once the visa is granted, you will be allowed to live and work in the UK for 2.5 years. Before it expires, you will need to apply to extend your leave to remain. After five years in this visa category, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which gives you permanent residence.

IMPORTANT

The family reunion visa is vital for couples who wish to build their life together in the UK. While the application process involves several steps and requirements, careful preparation and attention to detail can lead to a successful outcome. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, meet the financial and language requirements, and follow the application procedure accurately. By understanding the requirements and preparing thoroughly, you can complete your family reunion visa application with confidence and take the important step towards living with your partner in the UK.