UK family visas
UK parent visa: for a parent of a child in the UK
The parent family visa is for a parent of a child who lives in the UK and is British, Irish or settled. The focus is on your active role in the child's life. It is not a route for bringing elderly parents to the UK.
- First visa
- 2 years 9 months
- Settlement
- After 5 years on this visa
- Key test
- Your role in the child's upbringing
Who it suits
Is this visa for you?
- A parent of a British, Irish or settled child under 18 living in the UK
- A parent with sole or shared parental responsibility
- A parent who is actively involved in the child's upbringing
The basics
What the UK looks for
- The child is under 18, unmarried, and lives in the UK
- You have sole or shared parental responsibility
- You take an active role in the child's upbringing and plan to continue
- Good English and enough money to support yourself without public funds
A summary of the published rules. The full rules have more conditions, and they change. GOV.UK: Apply as a parent
Take care
Where cases go wrong
- Photos, cards and messages alone are unlikely to be enough evidence
- Evidence should come from official sources such as a school, a court or a medical professional
- If the child lives with the other parent, you need agreed or court-ordered access
Your case has details a web page cannot cover.
A consultation tells you where you stand, and what to do first.
Book a consultationFAQs
Parent visa questions
Can I bring my own elderly parents to the UK on this visa?
No. This visa is for a parent of a child in the UK. Elderly parents may look at the adult dependent relative route, which has very strict conditions.
Let's map your global pathway
A first consultation covers eligibility, realistic timelines, total cost and the tax consequences of the move. You leave with a written plan, not a brochure.