Parent Visa
How Can I Apply for a UK Parent Visa?
Understanding the UK Parent Visa: Who Can Apply and How It Works
You must show that you play an active role in your child’s upbringing and either have sole or shared parental responsibility.
If you’re eligible to apply as a partner instead, you must do that instead of applying as a parent.
How Can I Apply for a UK Parent Visa?
Applying for a Parent Visa: Key Steps to Reunite with Your Child
Step 1: Determine eligibility and relationship with the child
Step 2: Prepare required documents and evidence
Step 3: Apply online (inside or outside the UK)
Step 4: Attend a biometric appointment and submit supporting documents
Step 5: Wait for a decision (12 weeks outside the UK; up to 12 months inside)
What Is Sole Responsibility and How Can I Prove It?
Proving Sole Responsibility for a UK Parent Visa: What You Need to Know
Sole responsibility means the applicant is the only person responsible for the child’s upbringing.
You must provide:
- Court orders
- Letters from the school, GP, or local authority confirming your role
- Evidence from social services or legal agreements
What Is Direct Access in a Parent Visa Application?
Understanding Direct Access for a UK Parent Visa Application
If the child lives with their other parent or carer, the applicant must show that they have direct access (in-person contact) via agreement or court order. This includes:
- Contact agreements
- Court rulings
- Supporting letters from a solicitor
Why Must the Relationship Between Parents Have Broken Down?
Why Do Parents Need to Show a Breakdown in Their Relationship
If applying as a parent with shared responsibility, the other parent must not be your partner. A breakdown in the relationship must be proven to differentiate the route from a partner visa. Evidence may include:
- Separate addresses
- Legal separation documents
- Court statements
What Evidence Is Required for a UK Parent Visa?
UK Parent Visa Document Checklist: What to Submit with Your Application
- Child’s birth certificate
- Proof of British citizenship or settlement of the child
- Proof of parental responsibility (court orders, legal agreements)
- Evidence of active involvement in child’s life (letters from school, doctor, etc.)
- Proof of accommodation and financial independence
Financial Requirements for a UK Parent Visa
How Much Money Do You Need for a UK Parent Visa Application?
There’s no specific income threshold, but you must prove you can support yourself (and your child, if living with you) without public funds. Caseworkers assess your income and housing costs.
Can a Parent of a British Child Stay in the UK Permanently?
How to Get Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) on a UK Parent Visa
You can apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous residence on a Parent Visa route. Time on other visas (e.g., Student, Skilled Worker) does not count.
Can I Switch to a Parent Visa While in the UK?
Switching to a UK Parent Visa: Eligibility and Application Process
You may switch to a Parent Visa from another UK visa if:
- You meet eligibility criteria
- Your child is a British citizen or has lived 7+ years in the UK
- You have access and are actively involved in the child’s upbringing
Apply online and prepare your documents accordingly. Note that processing in the UK takes longer (up to 12 months).
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