Family Visa Document Checklist
Missing or incorrect documents are one of the most common reasons for family visa refusals. Use this checklist to make sure your application is complete before you submit.
Identity and personal documents
Relationship evidence
Financial and language requirements
Helpful organisations
Home Office
GovernmentThe lead government department for immigration and passports, drugs policy, crime, fire, counter-terrorism, and police.
UK Visas and Immigration
GovernmentResponsible for making millions of decisions every year about who has the right to visit or stay in the UK.
Citizens Advice
CharityProvides free, confidential, and independent advice on a wide range of issues including benefits, housing, debt, and employment.
Related guides
Family Visa: Overview
The UK's family immigration rules allow certain close family members of British citizens and those with settled or pre-settled status in the UK to apply to join them. The most common route is the spouse and partner visa, but other routes exist for children, parents, and other dependent relatives. Family visa rules changed significantly in April 2024, with a substantial increase to the minimum income requirement.
7 min
Immigration Evidence Checklist
Gathering the right evidence is one of the most important — and time-consuming — parts of any UK immigration application. Missing, inadequate, or poorly presented evidence is one of the most common reasons for delays and refusals. This guide summarises the types of evidence typically required across the main visa categories.
6 min
Skilled Worker Visa Overview
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for people from outside the UK to work in the country. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020 as part of the post-Brexit points-based immigration system. To be eligible, you generally need a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Skilled Worker sponsor licence, and your role and salary must meet the required thresholds.
9 min
Settlement and Indefinite Leave to Remain
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — also called settlement — gives you the right to live, work, and study in the UK for an indefinite period without immigration restrictions. ILR is a significant step on the pathway to British citizenship and provides much greater security than any time-limited visa. However, ILR can be lost if you spend extended periods outside the UK.
8 min
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