Introduction
Are you or a family member looking to live in the UK? Understanding the process of applying for a family visa or indefinite leave to remain can be overwhelming. This simple guide will walk you through the essential steps, eligibility criteria, and costs involved, ensuring you know what to expect. If you need assistance along the way, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to help you navigate your legal challenges effortlessly. Discover how to secure your family’s future in the UK with ease!
If you or a family member are looking to live in the UK, you may need to apply for a family visa or indefinite leave to remain. This guide will break down the process in a straightforward way, so you know what to expect and how to get started.
What Are Family Visas?
Family visas allow you to join your family in the UK. They are available for partners, children, parents, and adult dependents. If you’re already in the UK and want to extend your stay, you’ll also need to apply online.
If you want to settle permanently in the UK, you’ll be applying for something called “indefinite leave to remain.” This gives you the right to live in the UK without restrictions.
Can You Get a Family Visa or Indefinite Leave?
Before applying, it’s essential to check if you or your family member qualifies. Here’s what you can look into:
- Visas for partners and children
- Visas for adult dependent relatives
- Visas for parents of children living in the UK
- Extensions for existing family visas
- Indefinite leave for family members
- Permanent residency for children
Understanding the Costs
There are fees associated with applying for family visas and indefinite leave. The cost varies depending on whether the application is made from inside or outside the UK.
Visa Fees
- Outside the UK: You can find the fees for different visa categories on the GOV.UK website.
- Inside the UK: Check the fees for applications on the same website.
Immigration Health Surcharge
In most cases, your family member will need to pay an immigration health surcharge to access the NHS. However, this surcharge is not required for indefinite leave applications. You can find out how much the surcharge is on the GOV.UK website.
Financial Help
If the fees are too high, there may be options for a fee waiver, but this is limited to certain circumstances. Your family member will need to demonstrate financial hardship to qualify. More information on applying for a fee waiver is available on the GOV.UK website.
Health Checks
Before applying, your family member may need to take a tuberculosis (TB) test, depending on where they have been living. You can find out if this is necessary on the GOV.UK website.
Starting the Application
Applications can be made online, and you can help your family member with this process. If they are 16 or older, it’s a good idea for them to review the application before submission to ensure everything is accurate.
- Apply from outside the UK: GOV.UK application link
- Apply from inside the UK: GOV.UK application link
Booking Appointments
Once the application is submitted, your family member will need to book an appointment to provide biometric information (photo and fingerprints). This can be done at a visa application center if they are outside the UK or through the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Service if they are inside.
Uploading Evidence
After applying, your family member will need to upload supporting documents. This includes proof of relationships (like marriage or birth certificates), financial documents, and proof of accommodation. Make sure all documents are in English or translated.
What If the Application Is Rejected?
If the application is denied, your family member can either appeal the decision or submit a new application, which will require paying the fees again. It’s crucial to seek help from an immigration adviser if needed. For personalized assistance, consider trying Contend’s legal expert chat, where highly trained AI legal experts can provide guidance and help you understand and resolve legal issues.
If the Application Is Accepted
If approved, your family member will receive a biometric residence permit (BRP) if they applied from inside the UK. If they applied from outside, they’ll receive entry clearance, allowing them to enter the UK within 30 days.
Next Steps
Once in the UK, your family member must collect their BRP within 10 days and set up an online account for their immigration status.
Conclusion
Applying for a family visa or indefinite leave can seem daunting, but with the right information and support, you can navigate the process. For more detailed information, visit the GOV.UK website. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to try Contend’s legal expert chat for help with your legal problems. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
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