Personal and family routes to the UK
Personal visas cover the many reasons people come to, or stay in, the UK that are not about work or business – joining a partner or family member, settling permanently, becoming a British citizen, or visiting loved ones.
Immigration Lawyers UK is a network of SRA-regulated immigration solicitors who guide you to the right personal route and handle your application on a fixed fee, in plain English.
The main personal routes
The right route depends on your relationship to the UK and your goals. These are the ones we are asked about most:
- Partner and spouse visas – to live with a husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner who is settled in the UK
- Fiancé(e) visa – to come to the UK to marry, then switch to a partner visa
- Family visas – for children, parents and dependent relatives
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (settlement) – to stay in the UK permanently after a qualifying period
- British citizenship – to naturalise as a British citizen
- Visit visas – for short stays to see family, for tourism or for short business activities
How we help
Personal applications are document-heavy and emotionally important, and small mistakes cause delays and refusals. A solicitor from our network checks your eligibility, builds your evidence, and stays with you to the decision.
You get a fixed fee agreed up front and honest advice about your prospects – never false promises.
What to do next
If you are planning a personal or family application, start with a free, no-obligation assessment.
Request a free call-back and a regulated solicitor will explain your options and the next step, with no pressure to proceed.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a personal visa and a work visa?
Personal visas are based on your family relationships or personal circumstances – such as joining a partner, settling, or visiting. Work visas are based on a job and usually need an employer sponsor. We can confirm which applies to you.
Can a personal visa lead to settling in the UK?
Many do. Partner, family and other routes can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain after a qualifying period, and then to British citizenship. Visit visas do not lead to settlement.
How do I know which route I need?
The best way is a free assessment. Tell us about your situation and a solicitor will explain the route that fits and what it involves.