Who Can Apply?

The Family Visit Visa is specifically limited to the family members of an individual already living in the UK. To be eligible as a family member of the UK resident, applicants must be one of the following:

• Children
•  Grandchildren
•  Parents
•  Grandparents
•  Siblings
• Half Siblings
• Step Siblings

Before July 2012, the Home Office also allowed an applicant to apply for the visa if they were a cousin, uncle, aunt, nephew, or niece of the applicant. However, these relations are no longer eligible under the new visa rules.

Documents Required for Visa Application

You need to submit a number of documents when applying for the Family Visit Visa. These include the following:

• Valid passport or travel document. This passport or travel document must remain valid for your intended duration of stay in the UK.
• Proof of genuine relationship with your family member in the UK. This can be a certificate that states and confirms your relationship. This document plays a key role in the outcome of your visa application.
• Proof of Financial Means. This can be a pay slip, bank statement, or another document reflecting the status of your finances. The document should indicate that you have the requisite funds to support yourself after you come to the UK.
• Proof of Intention to Leave. You can use a certificate indicating your family in the home country as proof that you will return upon the expiry of the visa. Other documents to prove your intention to leave can be commitments back in your home country, such as employment you intend to resume.

It is important to consult a reliable immigration lawyer when applying for the Family Visit Visa. If you fail to submit the relevant documents or leave out important details, the Home Office may reject your application. Our Family Visa solicitors help you avoid this by ensuring that your application and relevant documentation are complete at the time of submission.