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.
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.
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What is a Parent Route?
The UK Parent Route is an immigration pathway that allows a non-British parent to live in the United Kingdom to care for or maintain a meaningful relationship with their child who is a British citizen or has settled status.
This route falls under the Family Visa category within the UK Immigration Rules. It exists to protect the child’s right to family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, ensuring that children can continue to have a close and stable relationship with both parents — even if one of them is not British or does not have settled status in the UK.
At-a-glance
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
- 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.
We prepare: a clear “best-interests” summary explaining your child’s circumstances, your role in their upbringing, and why continuing your stay in the UK is in the child’s welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
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).
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.