Who is eligible to apply for a family visa in the UK?

Family visas under Appendix FM are for spouses, partners, parents, or children of British citizens or settled persons. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine relationship, meet a financial requirement of at least £29,000 in minimum income or savings, pass an English language test, and provide evidence of suitable accommodation.

How long does it take to process a family visa application?

The standard processing time for a family visa is 8 to 12 weeks. Applicants can choose to apply via the GOV.UK website. While the standard route takes this duration, a priority service is available for those who need a faster decision, though it may incur additional costs.

What is the financial requirement for a family visa?

The financial requirement mandates a minimum income or savings of £29,000. You must provide supporting evidence, such as six months of payslips or bank statements, to prove you meet this threshold as part of your eligibility check.

All Legal Journeys

Immigration Law

UK-wide

4 stages

8–12 weeks (standard)

Reviewed 2026-05-22

Family visa journey

Spouse, partner, parent, or child visa under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules.

This page covers UK-wide law. Where local procedure differs (e.g. courts or tribunals), this is noted in the relevant section.

Who Uses This Journey

Family members of British citizens or settled persons seeking entry clearance or leave to remain.

Stage-by-Stage Timeline

Eligibility check

Genuine relationship, financial requirement (£29,000+ minimum income or savings), English language, accommodation.

Online application

Apply via GOV.UK. £1,938 (entry clearance) plus IHS.

Supporting evidence

Marriage certificate, financial documents (6 months payslips/bank statements), accommodation evidence, relationship evidence.

Biometric appointment + decision

Standard 8–12 weeks; priority service available.

Possible Outcomes

Granted (initial 33-month visa, leading to 5-year route to ILR)
Refused (limited appeal rights)

Official Sources

Family visa

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible to apply for a family visa in the UK?: Family visas under Appendix FM are for spouses, partners, parents, or children of British citizens or settled persons. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine relationship, meet a financial requirement of at least £29,000 in minimum income or savings, pass an English language test, and provide evidence of suitable accommodation.
How long does it take to process a family visa application?: The standard processing time for a family visa is 8 to 12 weeks. Applicants can choose to apply via the GOV.UK website. While the standard route takes this duration, a priority service is available for those who need a faster decision, though it may incur additional costs.
What is the financial requirement for a family visa?: The financial requirement mandates a minimum income or savings of £29,000. You must provide supporting evidence, such as six months of payslips or bank statements, to prove you meet this threshold as part of your eligibility check.