Estimate only. Fees reviewed July 2025. The income requirement for family visas is also changing — verify all current requirements on GOV.UK before applying.
Overview of UK Family Visa Fees
The UK Family visa route allows British citizens and settled persons to bring close family members to live with them in the UK. It is one of the most expensive visa routes in the UK immigration system, and the total cost — including IHS — is often significantly higher than applicants anticipate.
Current Application Fees (2024–2025)
| Visa type | Application fee | IHS (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse / Civil Partner | £1,846 | £1,035 |
| Unmarried Partner (2+ years cohabiting) | £1,846 | £1,035 |
| Fiancé(e) / Proposed Civil Partner | £1,846 | N/A (6-month visa) |
| Child (under 18) | £1,846 | £1,035 |
| Adult Dependent Relative | £3,250 | £1,035 |
Worked Examples
Example 1: Spouse visa — initial 2 years 9 months
Example 2: Spouse + 2 children — initial 2 years 9 months
Estimate only. Verify on GOV.UK before applying.
The Full Cost Over 5 Years (Path to ILR)
Most family visa holders will need to renew their visa before becoming eligible for ILR. The typical path involves an initial visa (2 years 9 months) followed by a further leave to remain (2.5 years), then an ILR application. Here is the approximate total cost for one person over the full 5-year route:
Approximate estimate. Fees may change. Does not include legal fees, language tests, or other costs.
The Income Requirement
To sponsor a spouse, partner, or child, the UK-based sponsor must meet a minimum income threshold. This is one of the most significant eligibility requirements for family visas and has been increasing:
- From April 2024: £29,000/year
- Later in 2024: £34,500/year
- By early 2025: £38,700/year (the full target)
The income requirement applies to the UK sponsor's earnings. If the sponsor does not meet the threshold, savings or other income sources may be used in some circumstances, but the rules are complex. Always check the current requirement on GOV.UK and consider seeking professional immigration advice.
Costs People Often Forget
- English language test: The applicant may need to pass an approved English language test (typically £150–£200).
- Tuberculosis (TB) test: Applicants from certain countries must provide a TB test certificate from an approved clinic. Costs vary by country.
- Document translation: Any documents not in English must be translated by a certified translator.
- Immigration solicitor: Family visa applications can be complex. Legal fees vary widely.
- Biometric enrolment: Overseas applicants must attend a visa application centre. Fees vary by country.
- Life in the UK test (for ILR): £50 per attempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum income requirement for a spouse visa?
As of April 2024, the minimum income threshold for a UK sponsor bringing a spouse or partner to the UK is £29,000 per year. This is rising in stages — to £34,500 and then to £38,700 by early 2025. The threshold applies to the UK-based sponsor's income, not the applicant's.
Can I include savings to meet the income requirement?
Yes, in some circumstances. If you do not meet the income threshold, you may be able to use savings above a certain level (currently £16,000 above the threshold shortfall, held for at least 6 months) to make up the difference. The rules are complex — seek immigration advice if you are close to the threshold.
Do children pay the same visa fee as adults?
Yes. Children applying for a UK Family visa pay the same application fee as adults (£1,846 as of 2024). They also pay IHS at the standard rate of £1,035/year, not the reduced rate — the reduced rate only applies to Student visas and Youth Mobility Scheme.
How long does a spouse visa last?
An initial spouse or partner visa is typically granted for 2 years and 9 months. After this, you can apply for a further leave to remain (FLR) for another 2.5 years. After 5 years of continuous residence, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Is there a faster way to process a family visa?
Yes. Priority Service (£500) aims to process your application within 5 working days, and Super Priority Service (£1,000) targets the next working day. These are available for in-country applications only. Applications from outside the UK are processed at overseas visa application centres and priority options vary by country.