Adult Dependent Relative Visa (ADR)
Enables individuals aged 18 or over to join a family member in the UK who is a British citizen, settled, or has protection status.
Enquire Now See How We Can HelpBring an elderly or vulnerable family member to the UK when they need you most
The Adult Dependent Relative Visa is specifically designed for those who require long-term personal care due to illness, disability, or age, and where such care is unavailable or unaffordable in their home country.
Getting Started
To be eligible, the applicant must be 18 or over and require long-term personal care as a result of illness, disability, or age — care that is either unavailable or unaffordable in their home country. Financial dependency on the UK-based relative is also a requirement. On the sponsor’s side, they must be a British citizen, settled in the UK, or hold protection status, and must be able to demonstrate that they have sufficient resources to provide accommodation, care, and financial support for the applicant without recourse to public funds — for the entire duration of the stay, or for a minimum of five years. The bar is deliberately high, and applications require compelling and well-documented evidence on both sides.
Visa Duration and Extensions
The length of the visa granted will depend on the immigration status of the sponsoring relative. If the sponsor holds Indefinite Leave to Remain, the applicant may be granted indefinite leave to enter. Where the sponsor holds temporary leave, the applicant’s visa will be aligned to match. This means the applicant’s status is closely tied to that of their sponsor, and any changes to the sponsor’s immigration position should be kept in mind when planning ahead.
The Path to Settlement
After five years of continuous residence in the UK, ADR Visa holders may become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, provided they have maintained their relationship with the sponsoring relative and continue to meet the care and dependency requirements. Given the nature of this visa and the personal circumstances it covers, it’s strongly advisable to seek professional immigration advice well in advance of any ILR application to ensure everything is properly in order.
Can I apply from within the UK?
Generally, first-time ADR applications must be made from outside the UK. However, if the applicant is already in the UK on a different visa, the applicant may be able to apply to switch to the ADR route, depending on the applicants circumstances.
What evidence is required to prove dependency?
You will need to provide comprehensive medical records, financial documents, and affidavits from healthcare professionals or social workers that attest to the applicants need for long-term care and the inability to obtain such care in the applicants home country.
Can my UK-based relative include me in their application?
No, the ADR visa application must be submitted by the dependent relative themselves. However, the applicants UK based relative will need to provide supporting documents, including proof of their status in the UK and their ability to support the applicant financially.
What is the application process?
The application process involves completing an online application form, submitting biometric information, and providing all necessary supporting documents. It’s advisable to consult with an immigration advisor to ensure all requirements are met.
What are the costs associated with the ADR visa?
The application fee for the ADR visa is £3,250 if applying from outside the UK. Additional costs may include the healthcare surcharge and biometric fees.
Ready to get started?
Speak to our immigration experts today and let us guide you through a smooth, compliant (ADR) application.
Get in TouchSpecialist UK Adult Dependent Relative Visa Support Across Key Sectors
Need help with your UK Adult Dependent Relative Visa application?
At Permits2Work, we offer professional legal support throughout the entire UK visa and immigration process - from initial eligibility assessments to application preparation and Home Office correspondence.
Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced immigration consultants and take the next step with confidence.
