When relocating to the UK with your family, navigating the immigration system can be one of the most critical steps. Understanding visa options, timelines and legal requirements is essential to ensure a smooth transition. Here are practical tips tailored for families dealing with the immigration process.
The first step in relocating to the UK is determining which visa category suits your family’s needs. There are several types of visas available depending on your circumstances:
- Skilled worker Visa: If one family member has secured a job offer from a UK employer, this visa may be the most suitable. It allows the primary applicant to bring their spouse and children as dependants.
- Family visa: If you’re joining a spouse or family member who is already a UK citizen or settled resident, a Family visa is your best option. This visa applies to spouses, civil partners and children. You must prove your relationship is genuine, and the UK resident must meet the financial requirements.
- Innovator visa: If you’re relocating to start a business in the UK, this visa allows for dependants to join you. However, this type of visa comes with specific financial, investment and business plan requirements.
Each visa category has financial thresholds that the primary visa holder must meet. These financial requirements are designed to ensure that the applicant can support themselves and their family members without relying on public funds.
For any UK visa application, particularly for families, gathering and submitting the right documentation is crucial. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay your application.
When relocating to the UK, it’s important to understand the arrangements for healthcare for your family. Individuals are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the National Health Service (NHS). The IHS costs £1,035 per person per year for adults and £776 per year for children or students. This surcharge is payable as part of your visa application. Once you’ve paid the IHS, you and your family members will have access to the NHS, which includes doctor visits, emergency care and hospital treatments.
Visa application processing times can vary depending on the type of visa, the country of application and whether the process is expedited. It’s essential to apply as early as possible, especially when relocating with a family, to ensure that everything is processed in time. Delays in receiving visas can lead to disruptions in your planned moving date, commencement of employment or school enrolment.
The UK immigration process can be complex, and any errors can delay or risk your family’s visa application. It’s often helpful to consult with an immigration lawyer or specialist, especially if your situation involves complex family circumstances, such as shared custody, adult dependents or unusual financial circumstances. A legal advisor can guide you through the process, help you gather documents and ensure your family’s applications meet the necessary requirements.
Relocating to the UK as a family involves a complex immigration process, but with the right preparation and understanding, it can be managed smoothly. Choosing the correct visa, gathering necessary documentation and understanding financial and healthcare requirements are key steps in ensuring a successful move. Plan early, stay informed and consider seeking professional guidance to help navigate the system and give your family the best start in the UK.
Updated: 20 December 2024
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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