UK Parent Visa
Bring your parents to reunite with your family in the UK
What is the UK Parent Visa?
The UK Parent Visa enables parents to join their children who are settled in the United Kingdom. This family reunion visa category recognizes the importance of maintaining family bonds across international borders. The visa is available for parents of dependent children under 18 years old who are British citizens or settled residents.
There are two distinct pathways for parents: the dependent child visa route for younger children, and the elderly dependent visa route for parents requiring long-term care from their adult children. Both routes require demonstrating parental involvement in the child's upbringing, financial stability, and English language proficiency in most cases.
Quick Facts
- •Minimum income requirement: £18,600 per year
- •Initial visa duration: 2 years and 6 months
- •English language: CEFR A1 level required
- •Child must be under 18 and not living independently
Eligibility Requirements
For the Parent Applicant
- ✓Must have shared or sole parental responsibility for the UK-based child
- ✓Must demonstrate active involvement in child's upbringing
- ✓Must be living outside the UK at time of application
- ✓Must meet English language requirements (CEFR A1)
- ✓Must meet health and security screening
Regarding the UK-Based Child
- ✓Must be under 18 years of age at time of application
- ✓Must not be living an independent life
- ✓Must be a British citizen or have settled immigration status
- ✓If parents share responsibility, the other parent must be settled in UK
- ✓Parent and child must not currently be in a relationship together
Demonstrating Parental Involvement
UK immigration authorities place significant emphasis on verifying that the applicant parent maintains genuine involvement in their child's life and upbringing. This is a critical assessment factor for visa approval.
Institutional Evidence
- •School confirmation of parent attendance at school events
- •Attendance records at parent-teacher conferences
- •School letters confirming school drop-off/pick-up involvement
- •Doctor/dentist confirmation of medical appointment attendance
- •Sport coach or activity leader confirmations
Personal Evidence
- •Photographs together at various locations and dates
- •Recent visit records and travel documentation
- •Communication records (calls, messages, emails)
- •Evidence of financial support for child's education or needs
- •Third-party statements from family members and close friends
Financial Requirements
Income Thresholds
The sponsor (UK-based child or other family member) must demonstrate a household income of at least £18,600 per year. Additional dependents increase the requirement:
- • Parent applicant alone: £18,600
- • First dependent child: Add £3,800 annually
- • Each additional child: Add £2,400 annually
- • Each additional dependent adult: Add £3,800 annually
Qualifying Income Sources
- ✓ Employment salary and wages
- ✓ Self-employment income (tax returns required)
- ✓ Savings above £16,000 threshold
- ✓ Pension income
- ✓ Investment returns and dividends
- ✓ Rental income from property
Financial Documentation
For Employed Sponsors
- • 6 months of recent payslips
- • Sponsorship letter from employer
- • P60 tax documents (current year)
- • Employment contract
For All Sponsors
- • 6 months of bank statements
- • Evidence of savings (if used)
- • Tax returns (if self-employed)
English Language Requirements
Proof Methods
Parent visa applicants must demonstrate English language ability at CEFR level A1 (Elementary) in speaking and listening. Acceptable proof includes:
- 1.Approved English language test (SELT) with A1 minimum in speaking and listening
- 2.Bachelor's degree or higher qualification taught in English and recognized by UK NARIC
Exemptions
Applicants are automatically exempt if they are:
- • Over 65 years of age
- • From an English-speaking country (USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, etc.)
- • With a qualifying medical condition preventing English language assessment
- • Coming for long-term care due to age or disability
Application Process
Prepare All Documents
Gather required documentation including parent's passport, proof of parental responsibility, evidence of active involvement with child, sponsor's financial documents, and English language proof
Complete VAF4A Form
Fill out the official VAF4A application form online through UK UKVI website with complete personal and family relationship information
Upload Supporting Documentation
Securely upload all documents through the application portal. Ensure organization and clear labeling for easy assessment by immigration officers
Pay Visa Fees
Complete online payment for the appropriate visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge based on application location (outside UK: £1,464, inside UK: £993-£1,583)
Attend Biometric Appointment
Visit a visa application center to provide fingerprints and photographs. This in-person appointment is mandatory for all parent visa applicants
Receive Decision
Immigration authorities will review your application and notify you of the decision. Processing typically takes 3-12 weeks depending on location and case complexity
Fees and Processing Times
Visa Fee Structure
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
Processing Timelines
Outside UK
Standard processing: Up to 12 weeks
Inside UK (Online/Post)
Standard processing: Up to 8 weeks
Premium Service
Decision typically within 1 business day
Note: Additional checks may extend timelines beyond standard periods.
Visa Duration and Extensions
Initial Visa Period
Parent visas are initially issued for 2 years and 6 months validity. After the child turns 18, the visa sponsorship typically ends unless other circumstances apply.
Extension Options
Extensions can be applied for up to 28 days before the current visa expires. Sponsorship must remain valid with continuous evidence of the parent-child relationship.
Long-Term Residence
After 10 years of continuous residence on parent visas, applicants may become eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain in specific circumstances.
Key Takeaways
Active Parental Involvement
Strong evidence of ongoing parental involvement is essential. Institutional confirmations from schools and healthcare providers carry significant weight with immigration officers.
Child Age Limitation
The child must be under 18 years old at time of application. Once the child reaches 18, the parent must switch to a different visa category if continued residence is desired.
Sponsor Financial Stability
The UK-based child or sponsor must demonstrate £18,600+ annual income. Clear, consistent financial documentation is crucial for approval.
Planning for Settlement
Unlike spouse visas, parent visas offer limited long-term settlement pathways. Plan extensions and future visa options early to avoid disruption to your stay.