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Eligibility Criteria
Child’s Residency Status: The child must be a British citizen, have settled status (indefinite leave to remain), or be from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland with pre-settled status. The child should generally be under 18 at the time of the application unless they have a severe disability or are over 18 but not living an independent life.
Parent’s Relationship to Child: The applicant must be the parent of the child in question. This includes biological parents, adoptive parents, and in some cases, step-parents who have lived with the child for a significant period.
Sole Responsibility or Serious Reasons: The parent must either have sole responsibility for the child or be the only parent the child has regular contact with. Alternatively, there must be serious or compelling family or other reasons making it desirable for the parent to join the child in the UK.
Accommodation and Financial Requirements: The parent must show that they can adequately maintain and accommodate themselves and their child without recourse to public funds. This includes having sufficient financial resources and suitable housing.
English Language Requirement: The applicant must meet the English language requirement, which generally means passing an approved English language test at A1 level or above unless exempt due to age, disability, or being from a majority English-speaking country.
Good Character: The applicant must demonstrate good character, which typically involves a criminal background check. Past criminal convictions or immigration violations can impact the application.
Genuine and Subsisting Relationship: There must be evidence of a genuine and subsisting relationship between the parent and the child, such as regular contact, financial support, and evidence of the parent being involved in the child’s upbringing.
The Application Process
Check Eligibility: Before applying, ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria, including your child’s residency status, your relationship to the child, financial and accommodation requirements, English language proficiency, and good character standards.
Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents to support your application. This typically includes your passport, your child’s birth certificate, evidence of your child’s residency status, proof of your relationship with the child, financial documents, accommodation details, and evidence of your English language proficiency.
Complete the Online Application: Submit the visa application online via the UK government’s official visa and immigration website. You will need to create an account, fill out the application form, and pay the required fee. Ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete.
Pay the Healthcare Surcharge: As part of the application, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay. This fee is in addition to the visa application fee.
Book and Attend a Biometrics Appointment: After submitting your online application, you will be asked to book a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your home country. At this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.
Submit Supporting Documents: Depending on your country, you may need to submit your supporting documents either at the VAC during your biometrics appointment or via an online document upload service. Ensure that all documents are originals or certified copies.
Wait for a Decision: After your biometrics appointment and submission of documents, your application will be processed. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes around 8 to 12 weeks. You can track your application status online.
Receive the Decision: You will be notified of the decision on your application via email or post. If approved, you will receive a vignette (a visa sticker) in your passport allowing you to travel to the UK.
Collect Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): Once you arrive in the UK, you must collect your BRP within 10 days. The BRP serves as your official visa and includes details of your immigration status.
Follow Visa Conditions: Adhere to all conditions of your visa, including any work or study restrictions, and ensure you renew or extend your visa as needed to avoid overstaying.
Tips for a Successful Application
Understand the Requirements Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with all the eligibility criteria and application requirements. Make sure you meet the criteria related to your child’s residency status, financial and accommodation requirements, English language proficiency, and your relationship with the child.
Gather Comprehensive Documentation: Compile all necessary documents well in advance. These should include your passport, your child’s birth certificate, proof of your child’s residency status, evidence of your relationship with the child, financial statements, accommodation details, and English language test results. Ensure all documents are originals or certified copies.
Provide Clear Evidence of Relationship: Strong evidence of a genuine and subsisting relationship with your child is crucial. Include photographs, letters, and documents showing regular communication, financial support, and involvement in your child’s life. This can help demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship to the visa officials.
Demonstrate Financial Stability: Clearly show that you can financially support yourself and your child without relying on public funds. This includes providing bank statements, employment letters, pay slips, and proof of any savings or assets. Make sure your financial documents cover at least the past six months.
Ensure Accommodation is Adequate: Provide evidence that you have suitable accommodation in the UK for yourself and your child. This could be in the form of a rental agreement, mortgage statement, or a letter from a host if you will be staying with someone.
Prepare for the English Language Test: If required, take the English language test well before your application date to avoid delays. Ensure you register with an approved test provider and prepare adequately to meet the necessary level.
Double-Check Your Application: Before submitting your application, review all the information and documents to ensure accuracy and completeness. Small errors or omissions can lead to delays or rejections.
Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting an immigration advisor or legal expert, especially if your case has any complexities. They can provide guidance, help prepare your application, and ensure that you meet all requirements.
Be Honest and Transparent: Ensure all the information you provide is truthful and accurate. Any discrepancies or false information can lead to your application being rejected and may affect future visa applications.
Keep Copies of Everything: Make copies of all documents submitted with your application. This includes the application form, supporting documents, and correspondence with the Home Office. These copies can be useful for future reference or if any issues arise during the processing of your application.