Bringing Parents to the UK for a Visit

Thinking of bringing your parents to the UK? Our guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a UK Standard visitor visa to bring your parents.

Getting a UK visit visa for your parents can be challenging, requiring a clear understanding of eligibility and the right supporting documents for a successful application.

For legal assistance with your UK Visitor visa application to bring your parent to the UK, call Moeen & Co. Solicitors at 0203 959 7755 or fill out the contact form.

Table of Contents

Can I bring my parents to the UK for a visit?

Yes, you can bring your parents to the UK for a visit, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for a Standard Visitor visa.

Your parents need to apply for a UK Standard Visitor visa that will allow your parent to visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism or permitted activities.

They must meet the eligibility criteria, including proving they intend to leave the UK before the visa expires.

What is a Standard Visitor visa?

A Standard Visitor visa is for those wishing to visit the UK for a temporary period (up to 6 months). It is typically used for tourism, family visits, or short-term business purposes.

Depending on your nationality, a visa may not be required to visit the UK. It's important to check whether you need a visa before applying.

What are the requirements for my parents to get a visitor visa?

To be eligible for a visitor visa, your parents must:

• prove they intend to leave the UK before their visa expires.
• proof that your parents can support themselves during their stay.
• show that they will be able to pay for their return or onward journey.
• provide evidence of their relationship with you.
• demonstrate strong ties to their home country to ensure they will return after the visit.
• meet all other eligibility criteria depending on their circumstances.

What documents do my parents need to submit for the visa application?

Your parents will need to submit the following documents:

• A valid passport.
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, pay slips, etc.).
• The invitation letter from you.
• Proof of their relationship to you (e.g., birth certificate).
• Accommodation details.
• Proof of ties to their home country.
• Travel itinerary (if applicable).
• Additional documents depending on your circumstances.

How do I sponsor my parents' visit?

As a sponsor, you need to provide:

• A letter of invitation outlining your relationship and their planned visit.
• Proof of your financial ability to support them during their stay (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
• Evidence of your legal status in the UK (citizenship or residence permit).
• Accommodation details (whether they will stay with you or elsewhere).

What should be included in the letter of invitation?

The letter should contain:

• Your full name, immigration status, and contact details.
• Your parents' details (names, relationship, purpose of visit, and travel dates).
• A statement confirming you will financially support them.
• Details of where they will stay (with you or elsewhere).
• The purpose of the visit and any planned activities.

How can I apply for a visitor visa to bring my parents to the UK?

Bringing your parents to the UK is a step-by-step process. Following the right steps helps get approval and meets UK visitor visa requirements.

Step-by-step process to bring your parents to the UK:

• Step 1: Check if a Visa is Required
• Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
• Step 3: Completing the Application Form
• Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
• Step 5: Book an Appointment for Biometrics
• Step 6: Submit the Application and Documents
• Step 7: Wait for a Decision

Step 1: Check if a Visa is Required

Depending on your parents' nationality, they may or may not need a visa. Ensure they check whether they require a visa to visit the UK before starting the application process.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

The first step is gathering important documents. These prove your relationship and show you can support your parents.

You will need to provide:

• Valid passport of your parents.
• Recent passport-sized photographs.
• The invitation letter from you.
• Proof of relationship, such as birth certificates.
• Evidence of financial support, like bank statements or pay slips.
• Details of accommodation arrangements for the duration of their stay.

Checking your documents carefully is vital. Make sure they meet all of the UK Standard Visitor visa needs. This avoids delays or your application being turned down.

Step 3: Completing the Application Form

After gathering documents, you can fill out the application form. This is done online on the official government website. Here are some tips:

• Ensure all information provided is accurate and truthful.
• Follow prompts closely for each section of the application.
• Double-check for any missing information before submission.

By following these steps, you're well-prepared for the parents' UK visit application. This sets a strong foundation for meeting UK visitor visa requirements.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

After filling out the form, you must pay the UK Standard Visitor visa application fee.

The cost for a Standard Visitor visa is approximately £115 for a 6-month stay. Ensure you have payment ready as part of the online application process.

This fee depends on how long you're visiting and other things. Paying the right fee is important and keep your receipt safe.

Step 5: Book an Appointment for Biometrics

After completing the application, your parents will need to attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide their biometric data (fingerprints and photographs). This is part of the visa application process.

Step 6: Submit the Application and Documents

Submit the completed application along with the required supporting documents either online (for digital submissions) or in person at the VAC.

Ensure all documents are in English or translated into English.

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

Wait for a decision on the UK Standard Visitor visa application. The visa processing time is typically around 3 weeks, but it may vary. Your parents can track the status of the application online.

How long does it take to get a visitor visa for my parents?

The UK Standard Visitor visa processing time typically takes around 3 weeks from the date of application. It's recommended to apply well in advance to avoid delays.

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

How much does a Standard Visitor visa cost?

The cost for a Standard Visitor visa is approximately £115 for a 6-month visa. Additional costs may apply for biometric data collection or expedited processing.

How much money do I need to sponsor a visitor to the UK?

There is no specific amount of money required to sponsor a visitor. You need to prove you can financially support your parents during their stay.

Generally, you'll want to show at least £1,000-£1,500 for a 1-month stay. This figure can vary depending on accommodation and living costs in the UK.

It's recommended to show enough funds to cover accommodation, living expenses, and any other costs. This can be demonstrated through your bank statements, payslips, and other financial documents.

How can Moeen & Co. Solicitors help with visitor visa applications?

• Assess whether you meet the UK Standard Visitor visa eligibility criteria.
• Advise about the supporting documents needed.
• Complete the visa application form correctly and submit it on time.
• Handle correspondence with UKVI throughout the process.
• Monitor application progress and provide updates.

Contact immigration solicitors in London

Contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors at 0203 959 7755. Our immigration solicitors in London are ready to assist with your parent's UK Standard visa application.

FAQs about bringing parents to the UK for a Visit