As families grow and responsibilities shift, many individuals living in the UK consider bringing their parents to live with them permanently. Whether for emotional support, better healthcare, or simply staying close to loved ones, the process of relocating parents can be complex. This guide will walk you through the legal pathways, eligibility criteria, and essential steps to help your parents settle in the UK permanently.
Understanding UK Immigration Rules for Parents
The UK has strict immigration policies when it comes to adult dependents. Unlike partner and child visas, bringing parents to the UK is more challenging, primarily because the UK government aims to ensure that migrants do not place a financial burden on public resources.
The most relevant visa route for elderly parents is the Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) visa, which falls under the Family Visa category. However, the requirements are strict, and only a limited number of applicants succeed each year.
Step 1: Check Eligibility for the Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) Visa
To apply for an ADR visa, your parents must meet specific criteria:
- They must be dependent on you for daily care – This includes medical and personal care needs that they cannot get in their home country.
- There must be no available support in their home country – You must prove that adequate care is unavailable or unaffordable where they currently reside.
- You must be a settled UK resident – You must be a British citizen, have indefinite leave to remain (ILR), refugee status, or humanitarian protection.
- You must financially support them – The UK government requires proof that you can support your parents without access to public funds.
If these criteria are not met, the visa is likely to be refused.
Step 2: Consider Alternative Visa Routes
If your parents do not qualify for the ADR visa, there are other ways they may be able to move to the UK:
1. Long-Term Visit Visa
While a Standard Visitor Visa only allows a stay of up to 6 months, parents can apply for a long-term visit visa (2, 5, or 10 years). However, they cannot settle permanently and must leave every 6 months.
2. EU Settlement Scheme (For Parents of EU Citizens in the UK)
If you or your spouse are an EU citizen with settled status in the UK, your parents may qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme under specific conditions.
3. Skilled Worker or Business Visa
If your parents have professional skills or want to invest in the UK, they might explore options like the Skilled Worker Visa or the Innovator Visa. However, these are unlikely routes for elderly parents.
Step 3: Prepare and Submit the Application
If your parents qualify for the ADR visa, you’ll need to gather and submit the necessary documents:
✅ Proof of Dependency – Medical reports, financial statements, and letters from doctors confirming their inability to live independently.
✅ Proof of Your Immigration Status – Passport, ILR, or citizenship documents.
✅ Proof of Financial Stability – Bank statements, salary slips, and tax records.
✅ Proof of No Adequate Care in Their Home Country – Letters from care homes, medical professionals, or government agencies.
Once gathered, the application must be submitted online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website, followed by a biometric appointment at a visa application center in their home country.
Step 4: Understand the Processing Time and Fees
Processing times for an ADR visa can take 6-12 months, depending on the complexity of the case. The fees are high, typically £3,250 per applicant, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) if applicable.
If the application is rejected, an appeal process is available, but this can be time-consuming and costly.
Step 5: Plan for Their Arrival and Settlement
Once the visa is granted, you’ll need to ensure a smooth transition for your parents:
🏡 Housing – Arrange a comfortable place for them to live.
🏥 Healthcare – Register them with a GP (General Practitioner) and explore NHS or private healthcare options.
📜 Legal Formalities – Help them apply for a National Insurance Number if needed.
Final Thoughts
Bringing your parents to the UK permanently is a challenging process, but with the right preparation and legal support, it can be possible. If you’re unsure about eligibility or the best visa route, consider consulting an immigration lawyer to improve your chances of success.