UK PARENT VISA
The UK Parent Visa allows a parent living abroad to join their child who is either a British citizen, settled in the UK, or has limited leave under Appendix EU (pre-settled status). This visa category is available for parents who are not in a relationship with the child’s other parent or carer, and who intend to take an active role in the upbringing of their child in the UK. The visa can be applied for either from outside the UK (entry clearance) or, in some cases, from within the UK.
The UK Parent Visa is granted for an initial period of two years and nine months, with the possibility of extension leading to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain). This visa does not include a direct path to work or public funds but focuses on enabling parents to contribute to their child’s life.
2. Questions and Answers
Q1: Who can apply for a UK Parent Visa?
A: To apply for a UK Parent Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- You are the parent of a child under 18 years old who lives in the UK.
- The child is a British citizen, settled in the UK, or has pre-settled status.
- You are not in a relationship with the child’s other parent or carer.
- You can provide evidence that you take an active role in the child’s upbringing.
- You can adequately maintain and accommodate yourself in the UK without public funds.
Q2: What is meant by “sole parental responsibility”?
A: “Sole parental responsibility” refers to having the primary authority and control over all major decisions in your child’s upbringing. This means that the parent has the sole responsibility for making decisions such as the child’s education, health care, and welfare. Evidence of this may include communication with schools or healthcare providers and financial support records.
Q3: Can I apply for a Parent Visa if I have shared custody?
A: Yes, if you have “direct access” to your child, you can apply even if you don’t have sole parental responsibility. Direct access means regular in-person contact with your child, whether it’s through a court order or an agreement with the child’s other parent. You will need to provide evidence of your role in the child’s life, such as visitation records, travel receipts, or joint care plans.
Q4: What are the financial requirements for a UK Parent Visa?
A: Unlike some other visa categories, there is no specific minimum income threshold for the UK Parent Visa. However, you must prove that you can adequately maintain yourself and any dependents without relying on public funds. You will need to provide evidence of your financial situation, including bank statements, payslips, or other documents that show your financial stability.
Q5: How long can I stay in the UK on a Parent Visa?
A: The UK Parent Visa is granted for 33 months (two years and nine months). After this period, you can apply for an extension, and eventually for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years, provided you continue to meet the visa requirements.
Q6: Can I work in the UK on a Parent Visa?
A: Yes, the Parent Visa allows you to work in the UK. However, you must not rely on public funds and need to prove your financial independence.
Q7: What documents do I need to apply for a UK Parent Visa?
A: Common documents required include:
- Your child’s birth certificate.
- Proof of your relationship with your child (e.g., communication records).
- Evidence of your role in your child’s upbringing (e.g., school reports, healthcare correspondence).
- Financial documents showing that you can support yourself in the UK.
- A valid passport.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
Q8: What happens if my application is refused?
A: If your application is refused, you may have the right to appeal the decision, depending on the reasons for refusal. It is highly recommended to seek legal advice for appeals, as the process can be complex.
3. How Kaya Legal Can Assist
At Kaya Legal, we specialise in providing expert guidance and personalised assistance for your UK Parent Visa application. Our experienced immigration lawyers can:
- Assess your eligibility for the UK Parent Visa.
- Help gather and prepare all required documentation, including evidence of your relationship with your child and proof of financial support.
- Advise on how to meet the sole parental responsibility or direct access requirements.
- Guide you through the application process, from filling in the online forms to submitting supporting documents.
- Provide representation in case of appeals or refusals.
We ensure that your application is accurate, comprehensive, and meets all the Home Office requirements, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome. Contact Kaya Legal today for professional advice tailored to your specific situation.