Parent Dependent Family Visa
Allows a parent to join or remain with their child in the UK, where the child is a British citizen, holds settled status, or has lived in the UK for at least 7 years.
Enquire Now See How We Can HelpSecure your right to be part of your child's life in the UK
The Parent Dependent Family Visa is suitable for parents who have sole or shared parental responsibility and can demonstrate that their presence is in the child’s best interests.
Getting Started
The Parent Visa is designed for those who have a child living in the UK and want to be there to play an active part in their life. To be eligible, your child must either be a British citizen, be settled in the UK, or have lived here continuously for at least seven years — in which case it would also need to be unreasonable to expect them to leave.
Responsibilities
You’ll need to demonstrate that you have sole or shared parental responsibility, or that you are genuinely and actively involved in your child’s upbringing. You’ll also need to meet the English language requirement, show you can support yourself financially, and have suitable accommodation in place. Under exceptional circumstances those who cannot meet the criteria may still be able to make an argument for approval.
Visa Duration and Extensions
The length of your initial visa depends on where you’re applying from. If you’re applying from outside the UK, you’ll be granted two years and nine months; if you’re already in the UK, the initial period is two years and six months. Either way, you can extend your visa before it expires as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria, making it a route that can grow with your circumstances over time.
The Path to Settlement
After five years of continuous residence on the Parent Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain — permanent residency in the UK. To qualify, you’ll need to show you still meet the parental responsibility, financial, and English language requirements, and pass the Life in the UK Test.
Can I bring other dependants (e.g. spouse, children)?
Yes. You may include eligible dependants (e.g. children under 18) in your application.
Can I switch to another visa type while on a Parent Visa?
Possibly. You must check whether the new visa route allows switching and whether you meet the criteria.
How long does the application take?
- Outside the UK: up to 12 weeks.
- Inside the UK: may take up to 12 months.
What are the costs?
Visa application fee (varies by location).
Immigration Health Surcharge is also payable.
Do I need to be in the UK to apply for an extension?
No. You may apply from inside the UK if you already have valid leave, or from outside the UK depending on your situation.
What if I don’t meet all the requirements?
You may still apply under the 10-year route if you can demonstrate that refusal would negatively impact your child’s welfare.
Ready to get started?
Speak to our immigration experts today and let us guide you through a smooth, compliant Parent Dependent Family Visa application.
Get in TouchSpecialist Parent Dependent Family Visa Support Across Key Sectors
Need help with a Parent Dependent Family Visa as a British Citizen?
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.
