Family Visas

At ICS & Partners, we understand the importance of family life and the challenges individuals and families may face when navigating the UK's immigration system. Whether you are planning to join your spouse or partner, bring your children to the UK, reunite with family members or secure permanent settlement, our immigration professionals provide tailored legal advice and representation throughout the application process.

Family Visas for the UK allows you to live, work and study in the UK. ICS & Partner's supports high-net-worth individuals, investors, entrepreneurs and internationally active families seeking strategic residence or citizenship solutions.

Our advice is tailored, discreet and aligned with long-term mobility, wealth and family planning objectives. Here are a summary of immigration programs that can be applied. 

Main categories of family visas

Spouse or civil partner visa including unmarried partners/same sex

The program allows family members - whether your sponsor holds a residency permit, is settled or is a British citizen - to apply for the partner route visa. For the unmarried partners, evidences related to the relationship lasted for 2 years is required. The visa grants the right to work, study and eventually apply for settlement. 

Children

There are a number of immigration priogram routes for children to apply based on their parents status in the UK.

Parent visa (child under 18)

Allows a parent to join their children in the UK. The parent must meet minimum income requirements.

Adult dependent relative visa

For relatives who require long‑term care from a family member in the UK. This route has strict financial and care‑needs tests.

Key point: Eligibility thresholds (such as income) differ between categories, so it’s essential to verify the specific requirement for your situation before you apply.

Common eligibility considerations

  • Proof of relationship – marriage certificate, civil partnership deed, or documented cohabitation.
  • Financial requirement – usually a minimum income of £29,000 per year for a spouse, with additional amounts for each dependent child. This can differ based on immigration programs being applied under. 
  • English language – a recognised test at CEFR level A1 (spouse) or B1 (settlement) unless exempt.
  • Accommodation – evidence that you have suitable, non‑overcrowded housing.
  • Health surcharge – payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for access to NHS services.

Additional family immigration services

ICS & Partners can also provide advice and representation in the following areas:

Immigration service

How we can assist

Unmarried partner visas

Assessing durable relationships and supporting evidence.

Fiancé(e) visas

Planning entry to the UK for marriage or civil partnership.

Family visa extensions

Preparing applications to continue lawful residence.

Human rights and Article 8 applications

Representations involving family life, children and exceptional circumstances.

Private life applications

Assessing qualifying residence and integration in the UK.

EU Settlement Scheme family applications

Advice on eligible family members and relevant EUSS requirements.

Bereaved partner settlement

Applications following the death of a qualifying partner.

Domestic abuse settlement

Confidential immigration advice and applications for eligible survivors.

Family visa refusals and appeals

Reviewing decisions, preparing appeal grounds and representing clients.

British citizenship and nationality

Naturalisation, registration of children and nationality planning.

The appropriate route depends on the sponsor's immigration status and the applicant's circumstances. For example, family members of Skilled Worker visa holders will generally need to consider the relevant dependant route rather than a standard family visa.

Step‑by‑step application process

  1. Gather supporting documents – passports, proof of relationship, financial evidence, English test results, and accommodation details.
  2. Complete the online application form on the UK government portal.
  3. Pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
  4. Book and attend a biometric appointment (fingerprints and photograph).
  5. Submit the full document package – either online upload or by post, depending on the visa route.
  6. Wait for a decision – processing times vary, typically ranging from 8 weeks to several months.

What happens after approval?

The visa is usually valid for 30 months (spouse/partner) and can be extended. After 5 years of continuous residence you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the first step toward permanent settlement.

How ICS & Partners can support you

Our team specialises in family immigration and can help you at every stage:

  • Initial eligibility review – we confirm whether you meet the basic criteria before you invest time and money.
  • Document checklist and preparation – ensuring every piece of evidence is formatted correctly and meets Home Office standards.
  • Application drafting and submission – we complete the online form, attach supporting files and manage the payment process.
  • Biometric and interview assistance – guidance on what to expect and how to present your case.
  • Post‑decision support – advice on extensions, settlement routes or appeals if a decision is unfavorable.

Our approach is collaborative and transparent. We keep you informed of progress, explain any requests for additional information, and tailor our advice to your family’s unique circumstances.

If you’re ready to start your family visa journey or simply have questions about eligibility, please contact us for a confidential, no‑obligation consultation. Our experienced immigration professionals are here to guide you toward a successful outcome.