How to Bring Your Family to the UK in 2023?

Bring Your Family to the UK: If you have a partner living abroad and wish to have them join you in the UK or stay in the country if they are already here, a partner visa could be the solution you need. This article will guide you through the process of obtaining a partner visa and provide essential information to help you understand the requirements and procedures involved. Additionally, we’ll explore the option of applying for child visas and the key factors to consider before embarking on this journey. Let’s dive in!

Bring Your Family to the UK

1. Understanding Partner and Child Visas

Before delving into the application process, it’s crucial to grasp the basics of partner and child visas. Partner visas are designed to reunite couples living apart due to immigration restrictions, allowing the non-UK partner to join their loved one in the United Kingdom. If your partner has children under 18, they can also apply for child visas to bring their children with them.

2. Are Partner and Child Visas Right for Your Situation?

Determining whether partner and child visas are suitable for your situation requires careful consideration. Think about the duration and nature of your relationship, your partner’s current location, and their willingness to relocate to the UK. It’s essential to be well-informed before proceeding with the application.

3. Sponsorship Requirements

As the UK partner, you will act as the sponsor for your partner’s visa application. If your partner also applies for visas for their children, you will be the sponsor for the children as well. Being a sponsor entails certain responsibilities, so make sure you understand the implications before proceeding.

4. Eligibility Criteria for Partner and Child Visas

To qualify for partner and child visas, certain eligibility criteria must be met. These criteria may involve income and savings requirements, ensuring a safe and suitable living environment, and, in some cases, passing an English language test. Familiarize yourself with these requirements to increase your chances of a successful application.

5. Applying for Partner and Child Visas

The application process for partner and child visas can be complex. Your partner has the option to apply for a partner visa, a child visa, or both simultaneously. Each option has its nuances, and understanding the differences will help streamline the process.

6. Financial Requirements for Sponsorship

To sponsor your partner and children, your minimum income should be £18,600 per year. In addition to this base amount, you need to consider the following:

1. £3,800 for the First Child

For the first child your partner is applying for, you need to have an extra £3,800 in annual income.

2. £2,400 for Each Additional Child

If your partner is applying for more than one child, you should have an additional £2,400 in income for each subsequent child.

Calculating the Total Required Income

Let’s illustrate this with an example. If your partner is applying for themselves and two children, you will need to meet the following income threshold:

Minimum Income Required = £18,600 (Base) + £3,800 (First Child) + £2,400 (Second Child) = £24,800 per year.

In this example, your annual income should be at least £24,800 to meet the financial requirements for sponsoring your partner and two children. This calculation is done by adding the base income of £18,600 to the additional amounts required for each child.

What’s Included in Your Income

When calculating your income, it’s essential to know what can be considered

1. Earnings from Employment or Self-Employment in the UK

Any income you earn from employment or self-employment within the UK is taken into account while determining your eligibility to sponsor your partner and children.

2. Pension Income

If you receive a pension, it will be included in your total income calculation.

3. Maternity, Paternity, Adoption, or Sick Pay

Income from maternity, paternity, adoption, or sick pay is also considered when calculating your sponsorship eligibility.

4. Other Income

Any additional income you may have, such as rental income or income from shares, will be factored into the total income assessment.

Exclusions from Your Income Calculation

It’s important to note that certain sources of income are not considered when calculating your eligibility to sponsor your partner and children. These exclusions include:

1. Benefits

Any benefits you receive, such as social welfare benefits, are not included in the income calculation.

2. Income from Illegal Sources

Income obtained from illegal activities or sources is not considered and cannot be used to meet the sponsorship financial requirements.

7. Extending the Visas

As the initial visa nears its expiration date, your partner can apply to extend both the partner and child visas. This process allows them to continue living in the UK without interruption.

8. Permanent Residency

After holding a partner visa for 5 years, your partner and their children may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in the UK. This represents a significant milestone in their journey towards building a life together in the country.

9. Conclusion

Bringing your partner to the UK through a partner visa can be a life-changing experience, reuniting you with your loved one and creating cherished memories together. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the requirements and procedures to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

FAQs

Q1: Can I apply for a partner visa if I’m not married to my partner?

Yes, you can apply for a partner visa even if you are not married. As long as you can prove that you are in a genuine relationship, you may be eligible to apply.

Q2: Is there an age limit for children applying for child visas?

No, there is no specific age limit for children applying for child visas. As long as they are under 18 and are dependent on your partner, they can be included in the application.

Q3: Can my partner work in the UK with a partner visa?

Yes, with a partner visa, your partner is usually allowed to work in the UK, providing additional opportunities for them to contribute to the family’s financial well-being.

Q4: What happens if my partner’s visa application is refused?

If the application is refused, you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply, depending on the reasons for the refusal.

Q5: Can I change my partner visa to a different type of visa later on?

Yes, under certain circumstances, it is possible to switch to a different visa category. However, the specific conditions and requirements may vary, so it’s essential to seek guidance from immigration authorities.