Child Family visa
🇬🇧 United Kingdom visas · Family
What it is
For children under 18 joining a parent in the UK who is applying for, or already has, a family visa as a partner or parent, or who holds protection status.
Key facts
- Category
- Family
- Duration
- Granted in line with the parent's leave; up to 2 years 9 months
- Processing time
- 8–12 weeks
- Extendable
- Yes
- Age
- Under 19
- How to apply
- Online
- Health insurance
- Not required
Standard figures for this route. Some applicants pay a reduced fee or none at all, so confirm your own case on the official page.
Fees
- Application fee (joining parent - apply outside the UK)
- GBP 2,064
- Health surcharge
- GBP 776 per year
- Application fee (joining parent - apply in the UK)
- GBP 1,407
Key requirements
- Under 18 when first granted leave
- Living with the UK-based parent (unless in full-time education)
- Not married or in a civil partnership
- Parent has eligible UK immigration status
- Parent has sole or shared parental responsibility
- Adequate maintenance and accommodation
Working on this visa
What you can do in the UK You can: work study
Bringing family
You must: live with your parent, unless you're living away from home in full-time education - for example, at boarding school or university not be married or in a civil partnership
Money you must show
If your parent has a family visa Their income has to meet…
Facts checked against the official source. Last updated 19 July 2026.