UK Dependent Visa for Retired Widowed Parent

As a Tier 2 General Visa holder, bringing a retired, dependent, widowed parent to the UK can be challenging. The Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) visa is the primary option, but it has strict requirements.

1. Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) Visa (Most Direct but Difficult)

• Your parent must prove they require long-term care for daily activities (e.g., dressing, washing).

• They must show they cannot get adequate care in their home country (e.g., no family available, no care facilities).

• You must prove financial ability to support them without public funds.

• The refusal rate for ADR visas is very high.

2. UK Visit Visa (Temporary Alternative)

• Allows visits of up to 6 months per stay.

• Not a permanent solution, but can be an easier short-term option.

3. UK Family Visa (Longer Route, Not Ideal)

• Typically for British citizens or ILR holders, not Tier 2 visa holders.

• If you get Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), you may have more options for family reunification.

4. Switching to Skilled Worker Visa & ILR

• If you plan to stay in the UK long-term, consider applying for ILR after 5 years.

• Once you have ILR or British citizenship, ADR and other family reunification options improve.

Conclusion

• Best Short-Term Option: UK Visit Visa.

• Best Long-Term Option: Get ILR first, then apply for an ADR visa.

• ADR Visa Directly: Only viable if you meet the strict dependency and care requirements.