What is the total cost of a UK family visa?
The total cost of bringing a spouse or partner to the UK on a family visa involves several separate payments: the visa application fee, currently £1,846 for an initial application from outside the UK, the Immigration Health Surcharge, currently £3,105 per person for a 2.5-year visa, and optionally solicitor fees if you use legal help. Each family member pays separately.
What does the full 5-year journey cost?
Most family visa holders go through two stages before qualifying for ILR: an initial 2.5-year visa, followed by a 2.5-year extension, and then an ILR application. Across all three stages, the total visa fees and IHS for a couple without children typically exceeds £15,000-£20,000 before legal costs.
Is there any financial help available?
There is no government financial assistance with UK visa fees. Some immigration charities and legal aid schemes can help with legal advice in limited circumstances, particularly for those fleeing domestic abuse or with human rights claims. For most family visa applicants, the costs must be met personally.