When considering a move to the UK for family reunification, it’s essential to understand the various costs associated with the family visa application process. This guide will provide you with an overview of the basic visa costs, dependant fees, the healthcare surcharge, payment methods, and more. We will also discuss eligibility for fee waivers, processing times, and additional costs you might encounter.
Basic Visa Costs
The family visa cost varies depending on the specific circumstances of your application, such as the category you fall into and whether you are applying from inside or outside the UK. Below is a breakdown of the typical costs for different categories:
Partner Visa
If you are applying to join your spouse or civil partner in the UK, the cost of the family visa is generally £1,538 if you are applying from outside the UK. If you are applying from within the UK, the cost is approximately £1,048.
Parent Visa
Parents who wish to join their child in the UK can expect to pay £1,538 when applying from abroad. The cost remains the same for those applying from within the UK.
Child Visa
A child who is joining a parent in the UK will pay a fee of £1,538 for applications made outside the UK. Inside the UK, the application fee for children is generally around £1,033.
Each application type has a similar base cost, but it is crucial to note that this is just the starting point, as other fees may apply.
Dependant Fees
If you are applying for a family visa and wish to include dependants in your application, additional costs will be incurred. A dependant is someone who relies on you financially, such as your spouse, child, or parent.
For each dependant added to your application, the cost is typically £1,538 for applications from outside the UK. For applications from within the UK, the cost for each dependant is generally £1,048. Be aware that if the dependant is under 18 years old, the fees may differ in certain cases.
Application Location
The cost of your family visa can vary based on whether you are applying from within the UK or from abroad.
Inside the UK
If you are applying from inside the UK, you will pay a lower fee compared to applications made from outside the country. Additionally, you may be required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) at the time of application.
Outside the UK
If you are applying from outside the UK, the application fee is generally higher. This is because there are additional administrative processes involved in applications made abroad.
Healthcare Surcharge
One of the most significant additional costs you will encounter when applying for a family visa is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This surcharge is a mandatory fee that covers access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
The IHS for most family visa applicants is £624 per year.
If you are applying for a visa for less than 12 months, the fee is proportionally lower.
For example, if you are applying for a 2-year partner visa, you will pay £1,248 in healthcare charges. If your visa is for a longer period, the amount will increase accordingly.
The IHS does not apply to individuals applying under specific schemes such as the European Union Settlement Scheme.
Payment Methods
When it comes to paying for your visa application, there are several payment methods accepted by the Home Office:
Credit or Debit Cards
The most common payment method is using a credit or debit card, which can be done directly through the visa application website.
Bank Transfers
In some cases, you may be required to make a bank transfer for large payments, especially for applications made from outside the UK.
Online Payments
Visa application fees can also be paid using online services, such as PayPal.
When making large transactions, such as for multiple dependants, ensure that your card or payment method has a sufficient limit.
Additionally, some payment methods may incur processing fees, so it’s advisable to check the terms and conditions before proceeding.
Fee Waivers
Certain individuals may be eligible for fee waivers or exemptions from paying the visa application fees. This is typically applicable to individuals who can demonstrate financial hardship or other exceptional circumstances.
For instance, those applying for a family visa on the basis of their asylum status, or individuals who have been victims of human trafficking, may be eligible for a fee waiver.
To apply for a fee waiver, you will need to submit evidence of your situation and complete the relevant forms, demonstrating that you cannot afford to pay the visa fees.
Processing Times
The processing time for family visa applications can vary, depending on whether you are applying from within the UK or abroad.
Inside the UK
The standard processing time for a family visa application made from within the UK is usually 8 weeks.
Outside the UK
For applicants from outside the UK, the processing time is typically longer, around 12 weeks. However, this can vary depending on your country of residence and the specific circumstances of your case.
You may also be able to apply for a priority or super priority service, which could expedite the process for an additional fee.
Additional Costs
In addition to the basic application fees and healthcare surcharge, there may be additional costs associated with your family visa application. These include:
Biometric Fees
Most applicants will need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) as part of the visa process. The cost for this is typically around £19.20.
Legal Advice
If you choose to hire a solicitor to help you with your application, you may incur additional legal fees. These can vary widely depending on the complexity of your case and the services offered by the lawyer.
Translation Services
If any of your documents are not in English, you will need to have them translated, which can incur additional costs.
Application Process
The process for applying for a family visa involves several steps:
Determine Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for a family visa, which typically include demonstrating a genuine relationship with your partner or family member in the UK.
Complete the Application Form
Complete the relevant visa application form online. Be thorough and provide all the required documentation, such as financial evidence and proof of your relationship.
Pay the Fees
Once your application is complete, you will need to pay the application fee and the healthcare surcharge.
Submit Biometrics
After submitting your application, you will be required to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.
Wait for a Decision
After submitting all the necessary documents and biometric information, your application will be reviewed, and you will receive a decision. The processing time will depend on where you are applying from.
Conclusion
The cost of a UK family visa can vary based on several factors, such as your application type, location, and the number of dependants included in your application. It’s essential to factor in not just the base visa costs, but also the healthcare surcharge, biometric fees, and potential legal or translation costs. Always ensure you have enough funds available for the application process and explore any eligibility for fee waivers or exemptions if necessary.
The application process itself may take several months, so it’s advisable to plan ahead and ensure all necessary documentation is submitted on time.
