The United Kingdom offers several immigration pathways for individuals seeking to join family members already residing in the country. One of the prominent pathways is the Adult Dependent Relative Visa (ADR), designed for individuals who require long-term care from a family member settled in the UK. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the Adult Dependent Relative Visa in detail, with a focus on its relevance for BNO visa holders, success rates, eligibility requirements, fees, and more.
What is the BNO Adult Dependent Relative Visa?
The BNO Adult Dependent Relative Visa is a visa category in the UK that allows individuals, such as elderly parents or disabled family members, to join their family members in the UK. Specifically, for those who hold a British National (Overseas) [BNO] visa, this visa category enables elderly or dependent relatives to come and reside in the UK with their sponsoring family member, as long as certain conditions are met.
This visa is designed for people who are unable to care for themselves and need the support of a family member who is settled in the UK. It is a route for parents, grandparents, or other adult relatives who are financially and medically dependent on their UK-based relatives.
Who is Eligible for the BNO Adult Dependent Relative Visa?
Relationship Requirement
The applicant must be an adult dependent relative of someone who is a British citizen, settled in the UK, or who holds a BNO visa. This includes:
- Parents
- Grandparents
- Adult children
- Siblings
- Other adult relatives who can prove their dependency
Dependency Requirement
The applicant must show that they are reliant on the sponsor for financial and emotional support due to age, illness, or disability. They must demonstrate that they are unable to live independently and require a family member’s care in the UK.
Sponsor Requirement
The sponsor (family member in the UK) must be:
- A British citizen
- A person settled in the UK
- A person with BNO visa status (valid as of January 2021)
The sponsor must provide adequate evidence of their ability to support the applicant financially and care for them without relying on public funds.
Financial and Housing Requirement
The sponsor needs to show that they can accommodate the dependent relative in their home without needing public assistance. They must meet the minimum income threshold set by the UK Home Office, and in many cases, provide evidence of stable accommodation for the applicant.
Key Requirements for the Adult Dependent Relative Visa
The Adult Dependent Relative Visa has specific eligibility criteria that must be met by both the applicant and the sponsor. Below are the critical requirements:
Dependency Proof
Applicants must provide documentary evidence that they are financially dependent on their relative in the UK. This could include:
- Medical certificates detailing the applicant’s condition.
- Bank statements showing reliance on financial support from the UK relative.
- A letter from the applicant’s physician confirming their inability to perform daily activities.
Sponsor’s Financial and Accommodation Evidence
The sponsor in the UK must demonstrate:
- A stable income of at least £18,600 per year (for a single applicant).
- Evidence that they have sufficient accommodation to house the dependent relative, without relying on public funds.
English Language Requirement
While English proficiency is not always mandatory for the applicant, it is essential for certain types of visa applications. The applicant might need to pass an English language test if required by the Home Office.
Health and Care Considerations
For elderly applicants, medical care plans must be in place, and the relative must prove they can offer the necessary care. This can be demonstrated through proof of medical treatment or care plans already in place in the applicant’s home country.
The Application Procedure for the Adult Dependent Relative Visa
The application process for the Adult Dependent Relative Visa for BNO holders involves several key stages, including:
Preparing Documentation: Gather required documents, including medical records, proof of dependency, financial documents, accommodation details, and evidence of the sponsor’s status in the UK.
Visa Application Submission: Submit the online application through the official UK Government website.
Biometrics Appointment: Attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and photographs.
Application Processing: Wait for the visa decision, which may take several months, depending on the complexity of the case.
Visa Decision: If successful, the applicant will receive a visa, typically valid for a period of up to 30 months. After this period, the individual may apply for an extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Adult Dependent Relative Visa Success Rate
The adult dependent relative visa success rate varies from year to year, depending on the applicant’s ability to provide sufficient evidence of dependency, financial support, and the sponsor’s ability to care for them. Generally, the approval rates for these types of visas can be lower compared to other family-based visa categories, due to the strict requirements imposed by the Home Office.
The success rate is heavily influenced by:
- The quality of the supporting evidence provided by the applicant and sponsor.
- Meeting the financial and accommodation thresholds.
- Demonstrating the applicant’s genuine dependency.
Adult Dependent Relative Visa Fees
The fee for the adult dependent relative visa varies based on factors such as the duration of the visa and the specific circumstances of the applicant.
The fees can range as follows:
- Application fee: £3,250 for a visa of up to 2.5 years, and £3,750 for a visa lasting 5 years.
- Health Surcharge: The applicant will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. The IHS is typically £624 per year for adults.
Adult Dependent Relative Visa for Elderly Parents
The Adult Dependent Relative Visa for elderly parents is an important visa category for those who need to bring their elderly parents to the UK for long-term care. Elderly parents who need assistance with daily living due to health issues or old age can apply for this visa if they meet the dependency requirements.
Given the emotional and practical challenges of caring for elderly parents, this visa allows families to reunite and ensure their elderly relatives receive the care and support they need.
BNO Visa Dependent Settlement
For those holding a BNO visa, the dependent settlement route offers a pathway for eligible family members to join them in the UK under the Adult Dependent Relative Visa scheme. Once granted, these dependents may be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or even British citizenship after residing in the UK for a specified period, meeting the necessary residency and other conditions.
FAQs
Is it possible to apply for the Adult Dependent Relative Visa from outside the UK?
Yes, the Adult Dependent Relative Visa can be applied for from outside the UK. The applicant must submit the visa application through their local UK visa application center.
Can an applicant work or access public funds on this visa?
No, individuals on the Adult Dependent Relative Visa are not allowed to work in the UK, and they are also not allowed to access public funds, such as welfare benefits.
Can my dependent relative apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR)?
Yes, after residing in the UK on the Adult Dependent Relative Visa for a period of 5 years, the applicant may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Is the Adult Dependent Relative Visa only for elderly parents?
While it is most commonly used by elderly parents, the Adult Dependent Relative Visa is also available to other adult relatives who are dependent on their family member in the UK due to illness or disability.
What happens if my application for the Adult Dependent Relative Visa is refused?
If your application is refused, you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply with stronger evidence. It’s crucial to understand the reason for the refusal before taking any further steps.
Conclusion
The BNO Adult Dependent Relative Visa provides a vital opportunity for families to reunite and care for elderly or disabled relatives in need of long-term assistance. With a growing number of individuals seeking to sponsor family members under the BNO visa scheme, understanding the visa requirements, success rates, and application process is crucial for both applicants and sponsors.
By ensuring all eligibility criteria are met and providing sufficient supporting documents, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful application and ensure that your loved ones can join join you in the UK to obtain the care they require.
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