Martin taggart

Everything You Need to Know About the Adult Dependent Relative Visa UK

  1. What is the Adult Dependent Relative Visa?
    The Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) Visa allows non-UK nationals to join family members in the UK if they require long-term care and cannot receive it in their home country. This visa is primarily for elderly parents, grandparents, or other adult relatives who are financially and medically dependent on a UK sponsor.
  1. Who Can Apply for an Adult Dependent Relative Visa?

Eligible Applicants:

  • Parents, grandparents, siblings, or adult children of a UK sponsor.

Criteria for Applicants:

  • Require long-term personal care due to age, illness, or disability.
  • Cannot access the necessary care in their home country, either because it is unavailable or unaffordable.

Criteria for Sponsors:

  • Must be a British citizen, settled in the UK, or hold refugee status or humanitarian protection.
  • Commit to financially supporting the dependent relative without relying on public funds.
  1. Eligibility Requirements for the Adult Dependent Relative Visa
  • Medical Condition: Evidence of a physical or mental health condition requiring long-term care.
  • Dependency: Proof of financial and personal dependence on the UK sponsor.
  • No Alternative Care: Evidence that adequate care is not available or affordable in the applicant’s home country.
  • Relationship Proof: Documentation verifying the familial relationship between the applicant and sponsor.
  1. Documents Required for the Application

For the Applicant:

  • Valid passport or travel document.
  • Medical evidence (e.g., doctor’s letter detailing the condition and care required).
  • Proof of dependency on the UK sponsor (e.g., financial support documentation).

For the Sponsor:

  • Evidence of British citizenship, settled status, or refugee status.
  • Proof of financial capability to support the applicant (e.g., bank statements, employment letter).
  • Accommodation proof (e.g., tenancy agreement or property ownership documents).
  1. How to Apply for an Adult Dependent Relative Visa

Step 1: Prepare Your Application

Gather the necessary documents and ensure they meet the UKVI requirements.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

  • Submit your application through the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal.
  • Pay the required application fees.

Step 3: Attend a Biometric Appointment

  • Provide fingerprints and a photograph at a visa application center.

Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents

Upload your supporting documents online or provide them at the appointment, depending on the location.

Step 5: Await Decision

The processing time can take up to 12 weeks, with priority services available for faster results in some cases.

  1. Costs for an Adult Dependent Relative Visa
  • Visa Application Fee: £3,250.
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year, paid upfront for the visa’s duration.
  • Biometric Enrollment Fee: £19.20.
  1. Challenges and Common Reasons for Refusal
  • Insufficient Evidence: Failing to demonstrate dependency or the lack of care options in the home country.
  • Financial Concerns: Inability of the sponsor to prove financial stability.
  • Relationship Doubts: Lack of clear proof of familial ties.
  1. Appealing a Refused Application
    If your application is refused:
  • Request a reconsideration if you believe an error was made.
  • Lodge an appeal with the First-Tier Tribunal, providing additional evidence to support your case.
  1. Pathway to Settlement
    Holders of the ADR visa are granted indefinite leave to remain (ILR) upon entry, allowing them to live permanently in the UK.
  1. Tips for a Successful Application
  • Medical Evidence: Provide detailed reports from qualified professionals about the applicant’s condition.
  • Proof of Care Inaccessibility: Include thorough documentation showing the unavailability or cost of care in the applicant’s home country.
  • Financial Stability: Ensure the sponsor’s financial documents clearly demonstrate the ability to support the applicant.
  1. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Can I apply for the ADR visa for my parent-in-law?
    Yes, as long as they meet the dependency and care requirements.
  • Does the applicant need to meet English language requirements?
    No, there is no English language requirement for the ADR visa.
  • What happens if the sponsor relies on public funds?
    The application may be refused, as the sponsor must prove financial independence.
  • Can the applicant work in the UK on this visa?
    No, the ADR visa is solely for dependent relatives who require care and does not permit work.
  • How long does the ADR visa take to process?
    Standard processing takes up to 12 weeks, but delays can occur in complex cases.
  • Is the ADR visa permanent?
    Yes, successful applicants are granted indefinite leave to remain (ILR) immediately.
  1. Conclusion
    The Adult Dependent Relative Visa provides a pathway for elderly or vulnerable family members to join their relatives in the UK. While the application process can be complex and costly, careful preparation and thorough evidence can increase the chances of a successful outcome.
Trisha Lee