The possibility of bringing your sister to the UK permanently hinges primarily on her dependency status and your own immigration status in the UK.
Essentially, you might be able to bring your sister to the UK permanently if she is dependent on you due to her age, a disability, or illness, and you hold settled status in the UK. Let's break this down further:
Dependency Criteria
For your sister to qualify as a dependent, she generally needs to demonstrate that she requires your ongoing support to meet her essential needs. This can be due to:
- Age: This typically applies if she is under 18.
- Disability: She must have a physical or mental condition that prevents her from being able to support herself.
- Illness: She must have a medical condition that prevents her from being able to support herself.
It's crucial to demonstrate that she relies on you financially, emotionally, and/or practically. Evidence could include:
- Bank statements showing you regularly provide financial support.
- Medical records documenting her condition.
- Letters from doctors or other professionals confirming her dependency.
Your Immigration Status in the UK
The key factor is whether you have settled status in the UK. This means you have either:
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): This grants you the right to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions.
- British Citizenship: You are a citizen of the United Kingdom.
If you only have a temporary visa (e.g., a work visa or a student visa), you generally cannot sponsor a sibling for permanent residency.
Relevant Visa Options
The specific visa route your sister would need to apply for is typically the Adult Dependent Relative visa. This visa is specifically designed for individuals who require long-term personal care due to illness, disability, or age. The requirements are strict, and the application process can be complex.
Important Considerations
- Financial Requirements: You'll need to demonstrate that you can adequately support your sister financially without relying on public funds. This usually involves meeting specific income or savings thresholds.
- Care in the UK: You will likely need to prove that the necessary care for your sister cannot be obtained in her home country.
- Suitability: The Home Office will assess the suitability of your accommodation for your sister and consider other factors.
Getting Advice
Given the complexities of UK immigration law, it's highly recommended to seek advice from a qualified immigration solicitor or advisor. They can assess your specific circumstances and provide guidance on the best course of action. The Home Office website also offers detailed information about the Adult Dependent Relative visa and other relevant immigration routes.
