Child Visa UK – Joining a Parent

Children wanting to live in the UK with a parent or parents will usually need to apply under the Family Visa route. While many refer to this process as a “child visa”, there is no standalone visa route formally called the Child Visa. Instead, the application is made as a dependant of a parent who either has settled status or British citizenship, or who has limited leave under an immigration category that permits dependants. Children do not need to meet the Knowledge of English requirement on this route.

This route is a key pathway for families looking to reunite in the UK and for children who rely on a parent for care and support. Whether applying from within the UK or overseas, it is important to understand the eligibility requirements, the evidence you will need to submit, current decision timeframes, and how to manage the process efficiently to avoid delays or refusals.

What this article is about
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the UK’s provisions for children joining a parent under the Family Visa route. It explains how the route works, the criteria you must meet, the evidence required, the step-by-step application process, and what to expect after a decision is made. It also outlines how children on this route can extend their stay, their rights in the UK, and the pathways to settlement (ILR), including where a 5-year route may be available in specific circumstances under the family or private life provisions.

 

Section A: Understanding the Child Visa Route

 

Children seeking to live in the UK with their parent or parents do so under the umbrella of the Family Visa route. While commonly called the “Child Visa”, it is not a separate immigration category in its own right. Instead, it forms part of the broader framework of family immigration, allowing children to join or remain with a parent who has lawful status in the UK.

This section explains the nature of this visa category, the legal basis for applications, and the circumstances in which it applies. Understanding this context is essential before considering eligibility requirements, documentation, or the application process.

 

1. What the Child Visa Is

 

The so-called “Child Visa” is part of the Family Visa system, designed to keep families together when a parent is already living in the UK. It allows a child to apply for permission to join or stay with their parent where that parent is:

• A British citizen;
• Settled in the UK (holding Indefinite Leave to Remain or permanent residence);
• In the UK with refugee status or humanitarian protection; or
• In the UK with limited leave under a route that permits dependants (for example, certain work or talent routes).

 

The child’s eligibility and the evidential standard will depend on the parent’s immigration status and compliance with the relevant rules. The child’s best interests are a primary consideration throughout decision-making.

 

2. When This Route Is Applicable

 

The Family Visa route for children applies in a range of circumstances, including where:

• The child is under 18 and dependent on a parent in the UK;
• Both parents are in the UK and wish their child to join them;
• Only one parent is in the UK but has sole responsibility for the child, or there are serious or compelling reasons for the child to join that parent; or
• The child is already in the UK on a different basis and needs to switch to remain as a dependant of a parent.

 

Important: Not every immigration route permits new dependant applications. For example, overseas applications as dependants are generally not permitted for care worker and senior care worker roles, subject to limited in-country exceptions. Where the sponsoring parent’s route restricts dependants, a child application may not be possible under that route and alternative family provisions may need to be considered.

 

3. Differences Between Child and Other Dependant Routes

 

The child route under the Family Visa framework is distinct from dependant routes attached to temporary work or study categories. It is centred on family life and a child’s welfare, with particular emphasis on:

• Demonstrating dependency and a genuine parental relationship;
• Showing the parent can maintain and accommodate the child without recourse to public funds; and
• Evidencing that the arrangements align with the child’s best interests.

 

Section A Summary: The Child Visa is not a standalone route but operates within the Family Visa framework to enable children to live with a parent or parents who are lawfully in the UK. The sponsoring parent’s status dictates which requirements apply and whether a child can apply under this route. This context underpins the detailed eligibility, evidence, and process considerations that follow.

 

Section B: Eligibility Requirements

 

Before applying for a child visa under the Family Visa route, it is essential to understand the eligibility requirements set out under the UK Immigration Rules. These rules are designed to ensure that the child genuinely qualifies as a dependant and that the sponsoring parent can adequately support and accommodate them without relying on public funds. Criteria may differ depending on the child’s age, the parent’s immigration status, and whether the application is made from inside or outside the UK.

 

1. Relationship Criteria

 

The applicant must provide clear evidence of a genuine parental relationship with the parent in the UK. This includes:

• The parent being the child’s biological or adoptive parent, or having sole legal responsibility for the child;
• Where only one parent is in the UK, evidence showing that parent is the primary caregiver or holds sole responsibility;
• For shared responsibility cases, proof that the other parent consents to the child’s relocation, or evidence explaining why consent is not required, such as through court orders or safeguarding decisions.

 

Supporting documentation typically includes full birth certificates, adoption orders, or guardianship documents.

 

2. Age and Dependency Requirements

 

Children under 18 are generally eligible as dependants if they are not married, in a civil partnership, or living independently.

For children aged 18 or over, additional evidence must be provided to show they:

• Were previously granted permission to stay as a dependant before turning 18; and
• Remain financially, emotionally, or socially dependent on the parent in the UK.

 

Evidence of ongoing dependency may include proof of cohabitation, financial support, or medical documentation where applicable.

 

3. Financial Requirements

 

The sponsoring parent must show they can support the child without recourse to public funds. Requirements differ depending on the parent’s immigration route. For example:

• Under the partner and family route, a minimum annual income of £18,600 is required, with additional sums for each child dependant;
• For work-related routes, evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses is required, though the specific amount varies by route.

 

Update (July 2025): While children remain exempt from the English language requirement, sponsors must now meet higher financial thresholds to demonstrate adequate maintenance under the Family Visa provisions.

 

4. Accommodation Requirements

 

The family must demonstrate suitable accommodation is available that is not overcrowded and meets UK housing standards. Evidence typically includes:

• Tenancy agreements or mortgage statements;
• Utility bills or council tax documentation; and
• Where applicable, written permission from a landlord or property owner.

 

The accommodation must have sufficient rooms and facilities for the entire family.

 

5. Suitability Requirements

 

Applicants and sponsors must meet suitability criteria, including:

• No serious criminal convictions or breaches of immigration law;
• No adverse immigration history that would make the grant of leave inappropriate;
• No findings that granting the visa would be against the public good or national security.

 

Section B Summary: Eligibility for a child visa under the Family Visa route is determined by relationship, age and dependency, financial stability, suitable accommodation, and suitability criteria. Preparing robust and comprehensive evidence for each requirement significantly improves the likelihood of a successful application.

 

Section C: Application Process

 

The process of applying for a child visa under the Family Visa route requires careful preparation, accurate documentation, and an understanding of each procedural step. Whether applying from outside the UK (entry clearance) or from within the UK (leave to remain or extension), the core evidence requirements are similar, though appointment logistics and decision timeframes can differ by location and service availability.

 

1. Where and How to Apply

 

Applications are made online via the official UK government service. The correct pathway depends on where the child is located at the time of application:

• Outside the UK (entry clearance): Complete the online form for a dependant child of a parent with qualifying status, pay the fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and book a Visa Application Centre (VAC) appointment for biometrics.
• Inside the UK (leave to remain/switch/extend): Submit the online application, pay the fee and IHS, upload supporting documents, and book a UKVCAS biometric appointment. Switching is only permitted where the Immigration Rules allow.

 

On submission, you will receive guidance to upload evidence and schedule biometrics. Keep the submission sheet and any appointment confirmations for your records.

 

2. Required Documents

 

Accurate, complete evidence is critical. Typical documentation includes:

• Child’s valid passport (and previous passports if available);
• Full birth certificate naming both parents (or adoption/guardianship orders as applicable);
• Proof of the sponsoring parent’s UK immigration status (e.g., BRP, eVisa share code, Home Office letter);
• Evidence of relationship and parental responsibility (court orders, custody/consent letters, evidence of sole responsibility or safeguarding where relevant);
• Financial evidence to show maintenance without recourse to public funds (e.g., payslips, bank statements, self-employment records, company accounts);
• Accommodation evidence (tenancy, mortgage statement, council tax/utility bills, landlord consent if needed);
• TB test certificate (if required based on country of residence);
• Certified translations for any non-English/Welsh documents.

 

Ensure document scans are legible, complete (front/back where relevant), and that translations include the translator’s credentials and certification.

 

3. Processing Times and Fees

 

Decision timelines: Standard service times typically run to several weeks. As a general guide, out-of-country decisions often take longer than in-country applications. Priority/super-priority services may be available for an additional fee, but availability varies by country and can change.

Fees and IHS: Application fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge are reviewed periodically and have increased in 2025. Always verify the latest amounts on GOV.UK at the point of submission. The IHS generally covers NHS access for the duration of the child’s leave.

Note on settlement timelines: While some family routes now operate on longer overall pathways to settlement, children joining a parent who is settled or a British citizen may still be eligible for earlier settlement where the specific rules are met. Check the current family/private life provisions before applying.

 

4. Biometrics and Possible Interviews

 

After submitting the application, the child (or the parent on their behalf) must attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints, a photograph, and (where applicable) a signature. In some cases, the Home Office may request additional evidence or invite the family to an interview to verify relationship, care arrangements, or claims of sole responsibility/compelling circumstances.

Good practice: Bring originals to biometrics (if instructed), keep scans ready for re-upload if requested, and respond promptly to any Home Office enquiries to avoid delays.

 

Section C Summary: Successful applications hinge on precise online filing, strong documentary evidence, and timely completion of biometrics. Check live GOV.UK guidance for current fees, IHS rates, and priority availability, and ensure the chosen route permits dependant child applications from the child’s location.

 

Section D: Rights and Conditions of Stay

 

Once granted, a child visa under the Family Visa route provides specific rights and conditions that define what the child can and cannot do while living in the UK. These rights cover the length of stay, access to education, entitlement to NHS services, and the potential pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship. Understanding these conditions ensures compliance and helps families plan for future applications or status changes.

 

1. Length of Stay and Visa Conditions

 

The duration of a child’s visa is generally tied to the immigration status of the sponsoring parent:

• If the parent has limited leave to remain (such as under a Skilled Worker, Global Talent, or family partner route), the child’s visa will typically expire on the same date as the parent’s visa.
• If the parent has Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship, the child may be eligible for immediate settlement or a route leading to settlement more quickly.

 

Update (July 2025): The general route to settlement for most dependants has been extended to 10 years. However, where the parent is a British citizen or settled in the UK, the child may still qualify for ILR after 5 years, provided all eligibility and dependency requirements continue to be met.

 

2. Right to Work and Study

 

Children on this visa route can access education in the UK without restrictions. Dependant children of school age can attend state schools, while older children can enrol in further or higher education institutions.

For older dependants (generally 16 and above), part-time work may be permitted, but this depends on the specific conditions of their visa. The child must remain financially dependent on their parent until they qualify for independent status or switch to another immigration route.

 

3. Access to NHS and Public Funds

 

Children granted a visa under the Family Visa route are entitled to access the NHS because of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) paid during the application process. However, they generally do not have access to public funds such as Universal Credit, housing benefit, or income support, unless the parent’s immigration status permits access to those funds.

 

4. Extension and Route to Settlement (ILR)

 

Children can extend their visa in line with the sponsoring parent’s status. Over time, they may become eligible for ILR, which confers permanent residence and removes visa-related restrictions. The route to settlement typically works as follows:

• Children of parents with limited leave to remain will need to extend their leave until the parent obtains ILR or British citizenship.
• Once the parent holds ILR or citizenship, the child can usually apply for ILR after meeting the residence and dependency requirements — typically after 5 years for settled parents or 10 years where the longer route applies.

 

Following the grant of ILR, children may be eligible to apply for British citizenship, often after 12 months, provided they meet good character and residence requirements.

 

Section D Summary: A child visa under the Family Visa framework offers the ability to live, study, and integrate fully into UK society. While most dependants now face a 10-year route to settlement, children of British citizens or settled parents retain access to a faster 5-year route, provided they continue to meet all relevant criteria.

 

FAQs

 

Can an over-18 child apply under this route?

 

Yes, but only in limited circumstances. The applicant must show they were granted permission as a dependant before turning 18 and that they remain financially, emotionally, or socially dependent on the parent in the UK. Strong evidence of continuing dependency (e.g., financial support, cohabitation, medical or care needs) is essential.

 

What happens if the parent’s visa status changes?

 

The child’s immigration position is linked to the sponsoring parent. If the parent extends, switches route, or obtains Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the child will typically need to apply to extend or vary their leave to remain in line. If the parent’s leave ends or they leave the UK, the child’s status may also be affected and urgent advice should be taken.

 

Can the child switch to another visa route in the UK?

 

Potentially, yes. Older dependants may switch to routes such as the Student route or a work route if they meet the specific eligibility requirements at the time of application. Switching is only permitted where the Immigration Rules allow it from the applicant’s current category.

 

How long does the decision usually take?

 

Standard processing often takes several weeks, with out-of-country applications commonly taking longer than in-country applications. Priority and super-priority services may be available for an additional fee, but service availability varies by location and may change over time.

 

Do children need to meet the English language requirement?

 

No. Children applying under the Family Visa child provisions are exempt from the Knowledge of English requirement. Sponsors, however, may need to meet financial requirements, which have been updated periodically.

 

Are dependants still allowed for all work routes?

 

No. Some work routes restrict new dependant applications (for example, overseas dependant applications are generally not permitted for care worker and senior care worker roles). Where a parent’s route does not allow dependants, an alternative family route may need to be considered.

 

When can a child qualify for settlement (ILR)?

 

Time to settlement depends on the parent’s status and the route followed. While some family pathways operate on longer timelines overall, children of British citizens or settled parents may qualify after 5 years where the specific eligibility and dependency requirements are met. Others may follow a longer route (e.g., 10 years) depending on their circumstances and the rules in force at the time.

 

Conclusion

 

The so-called “Child Visa” is not a standalone immigration route but a key part of the Family Visa framework, designed to keep families together in the UK. It enables children to join or remain with a parent or parents who have settled status, British citizenship, or qualifying leave under a route that permits dependants.

For parents, understanding the rules and preparing a well-documented, accurate application is critical. From evidencing the parent-child relationship and dependency to meeting financial and accommodation requirements, attention to detail is essential to avoid delays or refusals.

Once granted, the child visa provides a pathway for children to live, study, and integrate in the UK. In many cases, this route can lead to settlement (ILR) and eventual British citizenship, provided all conditions continue to be met. As of July 2025, most dependants face a longer 10-year route to settlement; however, children of British citizens or settled parents may still qualify for ILR after 5 years where the requirements are satisfied.

Families with complex circumstances, such as sole responsibility arrangements, shared custody situations, or applications involving older children, should seek expert immigration advice. Professional guidance can help ensure compliance with the UK Immigration Rules and reduce the risk of application issues or refusals.

 

Glossary

 

Term	Meaning
Family Visa	A visa category that allows individuals to join family members lawfully residing in the UK.
ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)	Permanent residence status in the UK, allowing an individual to live, work, and study without time restrictions.
BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)	A card issued to visa holders that confirms their immigration status, conditions, and length of stay in the UK.
IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge)	A fee paid as part of most visa applications, granting access to NHS healthcare services during the visa period.
Dependency	The requirement that a child is financially, emotionally, or socially reliant on their parent in the UK.

 

Useful Links

 

Resource	URL
Family visa overview	https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa
UKVI guidance on child dependants	https://www.gov.uk/child-visa
DavidsonMorris – Child Visa UK	https://www.davidsonmorris.com/child-visa-uk/
Xpats.io – Child Visa UK	https://www.xpats.io/child-visa/