UK Settlement Visa
You can apply for a UK settlement visa after 5 years of living in the UK.We provide assistance if you want to join your spouse,parent,child via settlement visa
UK Settlement Visa Program
What is a UK Settlement Visa
A UK settlement visa grants indefinite permission to reside in the UK, free from limitations on your stay, employment, or studies. This status is the most secure that non-British nationals can achieve, short of citizenship. Settlement status also enables you to access UK benefits if you meet the other eligibility criteria.
Once granted, this visa remains valid as long as you don’t leave the UK for a continuous period of over two years. However, if you do, it’s possible to apply for a ‘Returning Resident Visa’ to re-enter.
Eligibility Criteria for a UK Settlement Visa
Eligibility for a UK settlement visa largely depends on your visa type and residency period. Here are some common pathways:
Spouse or Partner of a British Citizen: Partners may apply after five years of continuous residence if they meet income and other relationship-based requirements. In some cases, partners can qualify for settlement after a ten-year stay.
Work Visa Holders: Individuals on certain work visas can apply for ILR after five years, provided they continue to hold a highly skilled or well-paid position and have their employer’s sponsorship.
Long Residence: Anyone who has lived in the UK legally for ten continuous years on various visas can qualify for settlement, even if those visas do not directly lead to ILR.
UK Ancestry Visa Holders: Those with UK ancestry visa can apply for settlement after five years of continuous residence.
EU Settlement Scheme: EU citizens who held pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme for five years may also qualify for indefinite leave to remain.
Children Born in the UK: Children born and raised in the UK may qualify for settlement if they have lived in the country continuously for the first seven years of their lives, even if they were born without valid permission.
Required Documents for a UK Settlement Visa Application
Each route to settlement has specific requirements, but most applicants will need:
Proof of continuous residence: Typically, this includes documentation showing you’ve been living in the UK without major gaps.
Proof of income or financial means: Some categories, like the spouse visa, require evidence of a minimum income threshold.
Police clearance certificate: Many applicants will need a police clearance certificate to confirm no criminal record.
English language proficiency: An English language test may be required unless you’re from a majority English-speaking country or hold an eligible degree.
Gathering these documents in advance can help streamline your application process.
How to Apply for a UK Settlement Visa
Applications for UK settlement visas are completed online. Once you fill out the form and submit the required documents, you’ll need to provide biometric information at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center or, if applying from overseas, a biometric enrolment center.
Priority Visa for Settlement Visas
For those who need their settlement application expedited, the Settlement Priority Visa service may be an option. This service ensures your application is reviewed at the front of the queue. While this doesn’t guarantee approval, it speeds up the process—especially useful if you’re in a hurry to settle. However, be mindful that it’s best for applicants without complex cases, as additional checks can affect processing times.
How Long Does the Process Take
Processing times vary depending on your immigration route and location. Typically:
Applications from within the UK can take 2–12 weeks.
Overseas applications may take longer, especially if additional documentation is needed.
To avoid delays, ensure your application is complete and that you meet all eligibility requirements.
UK Settlement Visa Fees and Costs
The application fee for a UK settlement visa is significant and varies depending on the route you’re applying under. Additionally, you may need to pay for healthcare surcharges. The costs can change annually, so checking the UK Visas and Immigration website for the latest fees is recommended.
Can My Family Join Me
Yes, dependent children under 18 can apply as part of your settlement visa application. Partners and spouses, if they meet specific criteria, can also apply for settlement after a qualifying period. Remember, you’ll need to show income above a certain threshold, which increases depending on the number of dependents.
What if My Relationship Ends
If your relationship ends before you achieve settlement status, it could affect your visa. In such cases, you’ll need to inform the UK Visas and Immigration department, as your eligibility for settlement may change.
Why Pick Our Company for Your UK Settlement Visa Program
As a South African company, we understand the common issues and difficulties that South African people face in the UK visa process. Our team is highly experienced in dealing with visa applications from South Africa. Your application will be well-prepared and ensured to meet all the requirements.
No Hassle: From document preparation to biometric appointments, we manage and take care of everything.
Standard Updates: Regular communication and timely updates on your application's status.
Customer Satisfaction: Your fulfilment is our priority. No compromise in the quality of services. We ensure reliable and professional service.
CONTACT US:
Please contact us on 0829730454 or mail dean@immigrationassist.co.za for more information.