UK Family Visa Guide: Spouse & Dependent Visa Requirements
Applying for a spouse or dependent visa? Understand eligibility, the financial requirement, documents needed and the full family visa process.
Family visas — covering spouses, partners, children and dependents — are among the most document-intensive visa categories. This guide explains eligibility, the financial requirement, and how to build a strong supporting evidence file.
Who Qualifies for a Family Visa?
Family visas typically cover spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners in a genuine long-term relationship, dependent children under 18, and in some cases elderly or dependent relatives. Each relationship category has its own evidentiary standard for proving the relationship is genuine and subsisting.
The Financial Requirement
Most family visa routes require the sponsor to meet a minimum income threshold, which can be satisfied through employment income, self-employment, savings, or a combination of sources. Meeting this requirement with the correct combination of payslips, tax returns, and bank statements is one of the most common points of failure in family visa applications.
Documents You'll Typically Need
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate, or evidence of a genuine relationship
- Sponsor's proof of income (payslips, employment letter, tax returns)
- Bank statements covering the required period
- Proof of accommodation suitable for the family unit
- English language test results, where applicable
- Photos, correspondence, and other evidence of an ongoing relationship
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm eligibility and which family visa category applies to your situation.
- Gather financial and relationship evidence over several weeks — this is the most time-consuming stage.
- Complete the online application and pay the visa fee plus healthcare surcharge, where applicable.
- Attend a biometric appointment.
- Await the decision and respond promptly to any additional evidence requests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as evidence of a 'genuine and subsisting' relationship?
Joint bank accounts, tenancy agreements, travel together, messages, and statements from friends or family are commonly used alongside the marriage or partnership certificate.
Can savings alone meet the financial requirement?
In many cases yes, provided the savings have been held for the required period and meet the specified threshold — our consultants can calculate this precisely for your situation.
How long does a family visa application take?
Timelines vary by route and country, but standard processing is typically measured in weeks rather than months once a complete application is submitted.
Bringing loved ones together? See our family visa service or check your family visa eligibility for free.