The UK extends diverse immigration avenues for children, based on specific parental statuses. Such pathways are available when a parent is already on a limited leave leading to settlement, or when a relative or parent is settled in the UK or in the process of getting such a status. These pathways, however, exclude those under Appendix FM as a Partner or Parent, or those designated as Points-Based System (PBS) migrants.

Should the child’s parent be on a limited leave as a Partner or Parent under Appendix FM, the appropriate application would be a ‘Child of a Partner or Parent Visa’.

For children whose parent is classified as a Points-Based System migrant, the ‘Dependent Child of a PBS Migrant’ visa would be applicable.

However, children already holding British citizenship, indefinite leave to remain, or any other settled status are exempt from applying for a visa to enter the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Child Visa – Child of a Parent with Limited Leave

For children seeking alignment with a parent already on a limited leave leading to UK settlement (excluding Appendix FM or PBS migrant pathways), the following must be met:

• The child should be below 18 at the time of application.
• The child hasn’t established an independent family.
• The child isn’t leading an independent life.
• The child must fit one of these criteria:
  • One parent is settled in the UK or arriving for settlement, while the other is on limited leave for settlement.
  • One parent, with sole responsibility for the child, is on limited leave for settlement.
  • One parent is on limited leave for settlement and there are significant family reasons or other considerations making the child’s exclusion inappropriate, with proper child care arrangements in place.
• There are financial and accommodation requirements the child must meet.

The specific eligibility details might differ based on individual circumstances. For tailored guidance, consulting an immigration lawyer is advised.

For consultation regarding a Child Visa, reach out to Highwood Solicitors at +44 (0) 1206523714 or use our enquiry form.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Child Visa – Child of Settled Parent or Relative

For children aiming for an indefinite leave in alignment with a settled parent or relative in the UK (excluding Appendix FM or PBS migrant pathways):

• The child (or relative child) should be below 18 during application.
• The child hasn’t established an independent family.
• The child isn’t leading an independent life.
• The child must satisfy one of these scenarios:
  • Both parents are settled in the UK.
  • Both parents are coming to the UK for settlement.
  • One parent is settled and the other is arriving for settlement.
  • One parent is settled (or arriving) and the other parent is deceased.
  • One parent, with sole responsibility for the child, is settled (or arriving).
  • A parent or relative is settled (or arriving) with significant family or other reasons making the child’s exclusion inappropriate, with proper child care arrangements.
• The child must meet certain financial and accommodation prerequisites.

For a comprehensive understanding, considering individual circumstances, it’s recommended to seek legal counsel.

For Child Visa queries, contact Highwood Solicitors at +44 (0) 1206523714 or use our online form.

Detailed Criteria Explanations

Child’s Independence Status
Your child shouldn’t live independently as part of another family. They shouldn’t be cohabiting in another household with a partner.

Child’s Life Independence
To qualify, children shouldn’t have established a separate social unit. They generally should be living with their guardian, not in full-time employment, and should depend primarily on their guardians.

Sole Child Upbringing Responsibility
This means a single parent has completely taken over child-rearing responsibilities. Evidential documentation proving this sole responsibility will be needed for the application. Highwood Solicitors can provide guidance on this.

Critical Family or Other Reasons
This delves into the child’s well-being, encompassing emotional factors. Both familial and other circumstances are considered, which might entail evaluating the child’s current living conditions, potential neglect or abuse cases, or other unmet needs. Proper child care arrangements in the UK are also required.

Financial and Accommodation Stipulations for UK Child Visa
Parents or guardians should ensure the child’s upkeep without resorting to public funds. For the accommodation, it should be owned or exclusively occupied by the guardian, without violating public health or overcrowding rules.

Other Information

Children are exempted from the English language requirement. As of now, the application fee for UK Child Visa from outside the UK is £1,523, while switching or extending within the UK costs £1,033.

How Highwood Solicitors Can Assist

Highwood Solicitors boast a successful track record in aiding foreign children in their UK relocation and settlement processes. Our expertise spans across the Child Visa requirements, offering advice, application assistance, and professional service throughout.

Contact Highwood Solicitors for a seamless and proficient Child Visa service at +44 (0) 1206523714.