What is a UK Family Visitor Visa?
Are you bringing your family to the UK? Officially called the Standard Visitor Visa, the UK family visitor visa permits family members to travel to the UK for short durations of up to six months or for tourism. Knowing the UK visitor visa criteria is essential for a successful application, regardless of whether you’re bringing parents, siblings, or other family members.
Applicants must show a sincere desire to return home, sufficient financial support, and strong family and economic ties to their home country. The UK government takes family visits seriously. If you are inviting your parents for a vacation, your spouse for a brief visit, or family members for a particular occasion, you can greatly increase your chances of success by being aware of the requirements, necessary paperwork, and application procedure.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about applying for a UK visit visa for your family members, from eligibility criteria to avoiding common refusal reasons.
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Eligibility Requirements - Who Can Apply?
To qualify for a UK visitor visa, your family member must:
- Demonstrate genuine intent to visit temporarily and return home
- Have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay
- Not intend to work or access public services
- Have strong ties to their home country
- Provide evidence of their relationship with you
The UK standard visitor visa is suitable for parents, spouses, children, grandparents, and other relatives visiting for family occasions, holidays, or medical treatment. Visitors cannot work, study for more than 30 days, or marry during their stay on this visa.
Application Process - How to Apply for UK Visitor Visa
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Visit the official UK government website and fill out the UK visitor visa online application form. You’ll need to provide personal details, travel plans, and financial information.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee
The current UK visitor visa fees 2025 are £127 for a standard 6-month visitor visa. Payment must be made online during the application process.
Step 3: Book Biometrics Appointment
Schedule an appointment at your nearest UK visa application centre for fingerprints and photographs. This is mandatory for all applicants.
Step 4: Attend the Appointment
Bring all required documents to your biometrics appointment. Your documents will be scanned and verified.
Step 5: Wait for Decision
UK visitor visa processing time typically ranges from 3 weeks to 3 months, depending on your country of application. Priority services are available for faster processing at additional cost.
Required Documents - UK Visitor Visa Documents Checklist
What documents needed for UK visitor visa
From the Applicant:
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Completed application form
- Biometric information
- Travel itinerary and accommodation details
- UK visitor visa bank statement (last 6 months)
- Employment letter or business documents
- Previous travel history
From the UK Sponsor:
- Sponsor letter for UK visitor visa explaining the relationship and visit purpose
- Proof of UK residence (utility bills, council tax)
- UK sponsor’s bank statements
- Copy of sponsor’s passport/UK immigration status
- UK visitor visa invitation letter (if applicable)
Financial Requirements - How Much Bank Balance Needed?
One of the most critical aspects is proving financial capability. The UK visitor visa bank statement requirements include:
- Bank statements for the last 6 months showing regular income
- Minimum balance of approximately £1,000-£2,000 per month of stay
- Clear source of funds (salary, business income, savings)
- No large, unexplained deposits shortly before application
Fees and Processing Time
Current Visa Fees (2025):
- 6-month Standard Visitor Visa: £127
- 2-year Multiple Entry Visitor Visa: £476
- 5-year Multiple Entry Visitor Visa: £866
- 10-year Multiple Entry Visitor Visa: £1,091
Common Refusal Reasons - Why UK Visitor Visas Get Refused
- Not enough money or an unknown financial status
- Absence of ties to the homeland
- Documentation that is lacking
- Prior visa infractions or overstays
- Poor sponsor documentation or inadequate sponsor proof
- A poor travel record or a first-time
How Adam Bernard Solicitors Can Help You
Navigating the complexities of UK immigration rules and visa applications can be overwhelming. At Adam Bernard Solicitors, our experienced immigration law team specializes in UK visitor visa applications and has helped hundreds of families reunite successfully.
Our Services Include:
- Complete Application Review – We ensure your application is error-free and compelling
- Document Preparation – Professional assistance with sponsor letters, financial documents, and supporting evidence
- Refusal Appeals – Expert representation if your visa has been refused
- Priority Processing Guidance – Fast-track your application when time is critical
- Personalized Consultation – Tailored advice based on your unique circumstances
Don’t leave your family’s UK visit to chance. With our in-depth knowledge of UK Home Office visa requirements and proven track record, we maximize your chances of approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a UK Family Visitor Visa and who can apply?
A UK Family Visitor Visa (part of the Standard Visitor Visa) allows relatives of UK residents or citizens to visit for up to 6 months for family, tourism, or short-term purposes. Eligible applicants include parents, siblings, children, grandparents, and extended relatives.
How long does it take to get a UK family visitor visa?
Processing time usually takes around 3 weeks after your biometrics appointment. However, delays may occur depending on country and season. Priority (5 working days) and super-priority (24 hours) services are available in some countries.
What documents are required for a UK family visitor visa?
You’ll need a valid passport, completed visa form, proof of relationship, financial documents, travel itinerary, sponsor letter, and proof of accommodation. Supporting documents from the UK sponsor (e.g., bank statements, proof of residence) are also essential.
How much bank balance is required for a UK visitor visa?
While there’s no fixed minimum, having £1,000–£2,000 per month of stay is generally recommended to show you can cover travel, accommodation, and daily expenses without relying on public funds.
Can a family member sponsor my UK visitor visa?
Yes. A UK-based family member can act as your sponsor by providing an invitation letter, proof of relationship, and evidence they can support you financially and accommodate you during your stay.
What should I include in a sponsor letter for a UK visitor visa?
The letter should include:
- Sponsor’s full name, address, and contact details
- Relationship with the visitor
- Purpose and duration of visit
- Financial and accommodation details
Copy of sponsor’s passport or visa/residence permit
Can I apply for a UK visitor visa without an invitation letter?
Yes, but if you’re visiting family, including an invitation letter strengthens your application and clarifies your visit’s purpose to the visa officer.
What are the common reasons for UK visitor visa refusal?
Refusals often happen due to:
- Insufficient financial evidence
- Weak ties to home country
- Unclear travel plans
- Inconsistent documents
Previous visa overstays or violations
Can I work or study on a UK visitor visa?
No. You cannot work or take long-term courses (over 30 days). This visa is for temporary visits only.
What should I do if my UK visitor visa is refused?
If refused, you’ll receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with stronger evidence or seek legal assistance from immigration solicitors like Adam Bernard Solicitors to prepare an appeal or a new application.
How can Adam Bernard Solicitors help with my UK visitor visa application?
Our immigration experts provide end-to-end assistance, including application review, document preparation, sponsor letters, refusal appeals, and fast-track guidance — ensuring your family visit visa has the best chance of approval.
