Parent Route — keep your family life stable in the UK
We confirm eligibility under Appendix FM (parent of a British or settled child, or child with 7+ years), map your care arrangements and best-interests evidence, and file a clean, on-time extension.
At-a-glance
Apply before expiry (Section 3C) Parent of British/settled child or 7+ years resident child Best-interests focus (Article 8 ECHR) Financial requirement (adequate maintenance) English: A2 (extension)
The Parent Route allows you to stay in the UK to care for or maintain a meaningful relationship with a child who is British, settled, or has lived in the UK for at least seven years. Apply before your current leave expires to keep your status protected under Section 3C.
Who can apply
- You have a genuine and subsisting parental relationship with a child in the UK.
- The child is British, settled, or has lived in the UK for 7+ years continuously.
- You have direct access and responsibility — or main/sole care — for the child.
- It would be unreasonable for the child to leave the UK with you.
- You meet the suitability requirements (good character, immigration history, no breach grounds).
Evidence & process
- Proof of relationship and contact (e.g., birth certificate, parental responsibility order, school/medical letters).
- Evidence of the child’s UK residence and citizenship status.
- Financial evidence of adequate maintenance — income and expenses summary showing you can support the child without public funds.
- English A2 certificate (if required) or exemption.
- Online application → pay fee and IHS → upload documents → biometrics (UKVCAS or app where eligible).
We prepare a structured evidence bundle focused on the child’s best interests and continuity of care.
Evidence & best-interests focus
Every Parent Route application must demonstrate your child’s best interests and your role in their daily life. The Home Office considers both legal responsibility and practical care — from living arrangements to emotional and educational involvement.
Child’s identity & residence
- Full birth certificate showing both parents’ names.
- Child’s passport or BRP (confirming British, settled or long residence status).
- Proof of residence in the UK — school letters, GP or NHS records, council tax, tenancy listing the child.
- Evidence showing the child has lived in the UK for 7+ years (if relying on long residence).
Parental responsibility & contact
- Parental responsibility order or written agreement (if applicable).
- Family court order or contact arrangements letter confirming your involvement.
- School or childcare letters confirming your role (drop-offs, attendance, meetings).
- Photos, communication records, and travel evidence (if the child lives separately part-time).
Child’s welfare & best interests
- School reports or attendance summaries showing stability and integration.
- Health visitor, GP, or social worker letters about the child’s wellbeing.
- Statements from the other parent or guardian (if supportive).
- Any special educational or medical needs, supported by professional reports.
Adequate maintenance & living arrangements
- Summary of income, rent, and household costs to show adequate maintenance without public funds.
- Proof of accommodation — tenancy, ownership, or host letter with permission to reside.
- Bank statements, benefit letters (if applicable), and other income proof.
- We’ll calculate your household income vs essential expenses and present it clearly.
Fees, IHS & decision times
We’ll confirm exact totals in your UKVI account before filing (fees and IHS change periodically).
| Item | What to expect | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Home Office application fee | Paid online during the form | Pay per applicant (you and each child applying). |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | Charged per year of leave | Paid up-front for the visa length; children have a reduced rate. |
| UKVCAS/biometrics | Standard centres included | Optional premium services (faster slots, document scanning, courier) may cost extra. |
| Priority / Super Priority | Optional add-on (if offered) | Availability varies by location; faster decision targets after biometrics/ID. |
Decision times
- Standard service: typically measured in weeks for straightforward cases.
- Priority options: where available, aim to shorten the wait (not guaranteed).
- We track your case and respond promptly to any further information requests.
Good to know
- Apply before expiry to keep Section 3C protection on existing conditions.
- Dependants pay their own fee and IHS; evidence must cover the child’s best interests.
- If affordability is an issue, ask about a Fee Waiver on family/private life routes.
FAQs
Do I need sole custody to qualify?
No. You don’t need sole custody. You must show a genuine and subsisting parental relationship and that you take an active role in your child’s life (care, contact, decisions).
What if my child lives with the other parent?
You can still qualify if you have direct access and play an active role. Provide contact arrangements, court orders or letters from school/GP confirming involvement.
Does my child need to be British?
Not always. The route also applies where the child is settled or has lived in the UK for 7+ years and it would be unreasonable for them to leave.
What English level do I need for an extension?
Usually CEFR A2 (unless exempt). We’ll confirm what applies in your case and the accepted evidence.
How do I show adequate maintenance?
Provide income and essential outgoings (rent, utilities, food, childcare) with recent statements/bills to show you can support your child without public funds.
Will I keep my rights while waiting?
If you apply before your leave expires, Section 3C usually extends your current conditions until a decision is made.
Can my other children apply with me?
Yes, dependent children can usually be included if they meet the rules. We’ll confirm documents for each child.
Make your Parent Route application decision-ready
We’ll structure your evidence around your child’s best interests, prepare an indexed bundle, and file your application on time.