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3 ways to enter

United Kingdom visas

United Kingdom family visa

Named routes cover marriage visits, parents of child students and certain family members of European citizens.

Ways to get a United Kingdom family visa

  1. Marriage Visitor visa

    Visa needed

    Travellers coming for a marriage visit.

  2. Parent of a Child Student visa

    Visa needed

    Parents applying under the Parent of a Child Student route.

  3. EEA Family Permit

    Other permit

    Family members of European Union, European Economic Area and Swiss citizens who are not covered by the listed visa exemptions can apply for this permit instead of a visa.

    Fee
    Free.
    Processing
    Most visa applications are decided within 3 weeks.

Who needs it

Travellers coming to marry, accompany a child student or use the listed family permit route need the relevant permission unless exempt.

Who doesn't

People covered by a visa exemption do not need the stated family permit as an alternative to a visa.

How to apply

  1. Register an online account and complete the application form.
  2. Pay any applicable fee.
  3. Attend a visa application centre appointment and provide biometrics, unless exempt.

What to bring

  • Fingerprints and a digital face image, unless exempt.

Good to know

  • Ordinary visa-free visitors must not marry or register a civil partnership during their stay.
  • The visitor visa list that names the Marriage Visitor and Parent of a Child Student routes is dated April 2015.
  • The listed family permit is free.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for the United Kingdom?

Travellers coming to marry, accompany a child student or use the listed family permit route need the relevant permission unless exempt. People covered by a visa exemption do not need the stated family permit as an alternative to a visa.

What are the ways to get a family visa for the United Kingdom?

There are 3 options: Marriage Visitor visa (a visa from an embassy); Parent of a Child Student visa (a visa from an embassy); EEA Family Permit (a special permit).

How long does a the United Kingdom family visa take?

Most visa applications are decided within 3 weeks.

What documents do I need for a the United Kingdom family visa?

Fingerprints and a digital face image, unless exempt..

How do I apply for a the United Kingdom family visa?

1. 1. Register an online account and complete the application form. 2. 2. Pay any applicable fee. 3. 3. Attend a visa application centre appointment and provide biometrics, unless exempt.

What rules do I have to follow on a the United Kingdom family visa?

Ordinary visa-free visitors must not marry or register a civil partnership during their stay.

Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for the United Kingdom?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the United Kingdom visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a family visa for the United Kingdom be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest the United Kingdom family visa rules?

On the United Kingdom's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my family visa once I am in the United Kingdom?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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