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Family Visiting UK 

As an NRI living in the UK, one of the greatest joys is the opportunity to welcome family from India to visit and experience life here—be it for a festive occasion, a child’s graduation, a new home blessing, or simply to reconnect with loved ones. The process of bringing family over can seem a bit daunting at first, but with the right information and preparation, it’s very manageable.

This guide is designed to walk you through every step of the UK visitor visa application—from understanding the eligibility criteria to submitting the necessary documents—so you can help your loved ones join you here with ease and confidence.

1. Who Needs a Visitor Visa?

Anyone travelling to the UK from India for tourism, family visits, or short business engagements will typically need a Standard Visitor Visa. This visa is suitable for:

  • Parents visiting children settled in the UK
  • Siblings or extended family attending personal celebrations
  • Grandparents meeting grandchildren
  • Family members joining for holidays or festivals

The visa is generally valid for up to 6 months per visit.

2. Key Requirements for the Visitor Visa

To qualify, your family member must demonstrate that:

  • They will leave the UK at the end of their visit.
  • They have sufficient funds to support themselves (or will be supported by you).
  • They have strong ties to India (such as a job, family, or property) as proof they will return home.
  • The purpose of the visit is genuine and temporary.

3. Documents Needed

Here’s a breakdown of the essential documents your family member should prepare:

From the Applicant (Your Family Member):

  • Completed online application form
  • Passport (valid for the entire stay with at least one blank page)
  • Passport-sized photograph
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements for the last 6 months, property papers, pension documents, etc.)
  • Employment or business documents, if applicable
  • Travel itinerary (including return ticket if booked)
  • Evidence of strong ties to India (like family, work, or assets)

From You (the Sponsor in the UK):

  • Invitation letter outlining the reason for the visit and your relationship
  • Copy of your passport and visa/residency status
  • Proof of accommodation (rental agreement, council tax bill, etc.)
  • Proof of income (payslips, bank statements)
  • Optional: A formal sponsorship letter (especially if you’re covering their costs)

4. Visa Fees (As of April 2025)

  • Standard Visitor Visa (up to 6 months): £127
  • Long-Term Standard Visitor Visa:
  • 2 years: £475
  • 5 years: £848
  • 10 years: £1,059

If your family member qualifies for a long-term visa (for frequent visits), this can be a more convenient option in the long run.

5. Application Process: Step by Step

  1. Create an account and fill out the application at the official UK visa website: www.gov.uk/standard-visitor
  2. Pay the visa fee online.
  3. Book a biometric appointment at a UK visa application centre (VAC) in India.
  4. Attend the appointment, submit fingerprints, photographs, and supporting documents.
  5. Wait for a decision—this usually takes 15 working days, though it can vary.

6. Helpful Tips from an NRI’s Experience

  • Plan well in advance. Start at least 6-8 weeks before the intended travel date.
  • Write a clear, warm invitation letter. Include details like where they’ll stay, the purpose of their visit, and how expenses will be handled.
  • Avoid overstaying. A history of respecting visa rules helps with future applications.
  • Support them with logistics. Many parents are unfamiliar with online systems, so guide them through filling forms, scanning documents, and booking appointments.

7. After Arrival in the UK

Once your family arrives, remember:

  • They cannot work or access public funds.
  • They can stay up to 6 months, unless a shorter period is stated on their visa.
  • You should retain copies of their travel and visa details in case of any checks or emergencies.

Helping your family visit the UK is more than a formality—it’s about strengthening connections, sharing your life abroad, and celebrating important moments together. With a bit of thoughtful preparation, you can make their trip smooth, joyful, and memorable.

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