If you want to invite your parents to the UK, the process depends on whether they are coming for a short visit or a long-term stay. Below is a step-by-step guide for both scenarios:Â
Inviting Parents for a Short Visit (Standard Visitor Visa)
This applies if they are coming for tourism, visiting family, or attending events and staying for up to 6 months.
Step 1: Check Visa Requirements
– If your parents are from a country that requires a UK visa (e.g., India, Nigeria, Pakistan, China), they need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa
– Check eligibility: [UK Gov Visa Checker](https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa)Â Â
Step 2: Prepare an Invitation Letter
Write a formal invitation letter that includes:
– Your full name, address, and immigration status in the UK.
– Your parents’ full names, dates of birth, and passport details.
– Purpose of their visit and duration of stay.
– Your relationship with them.
– Confirmation of accommodation and financial support (if applicable).
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents**
Your parents will need:
Their Documents
– Valid passport.
– Visa application form (completed online at [gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor/apply-standard-visitor-visa)).
– Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, pension details, or sponsorship letter).
– Travel itinerary (flight bookings, travel plans).
– Ties to home country (job, property ownership, family commitments). Â
Your Documents (if sponsoring)
– Copy of your UK passport or BRP/residence permit.
– Proof of income (payslips, bank statements).
– Proof of address (utility bill, tenancy agreement).
Step 4: Apply Online & Pay Fees
– Visit [UK Visa Application](https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor/apply-standard-visitor-visa) and complete the online form.
– Pay the visa fee (£115 for a 6-month visa).
– Book an appointment at the nearest visa application centre.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Appointment
– Your parents must submit biometric data (fingerprints & photo).
– Submit all required documents.
Step 6: Wait for Decision & Travel
– Processing time: **3-6 weeks** (or faster with priority service).
– Once approved, they can travel to the UK within the visa validity period.
How to invite your Parents for a Long-Term Stay
If you want your parents to live with you permanently, they must apply for a **Family Visa (Adult Dependent Relative Visa)**.
Eligibility Criteria:
– Your parent must require long-term personal care** due to illness, disability, or old age.
– Care must not be available or affordable in their home country.
– You must be a British citizen or have indefinite leave to remain (ILR)
Application Process:
1. Apply online** at [gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/adult-dependent-relatives) and pay the fee (£3,250 for applications outside the UK).
2. Submit documents proving financial ability and medical need.
3. Attend a biometric appointment in their home country.
4. Wait for decision (processing time: several months).
Alternative: Elderly Parent Visit with 2, 5, or 10-Year Visa
– Your parents can apply for a **long-term multiple-entry visitor visa (2, 5, or 10 years).
– Each stay must not exceed **6 months at a time
– Same process as the Standard Visitor Visa but with higher fees.