Can I bring my elderly parents to the UK?

Adult Dependent Relative Visa Required Documents

The evidence required for an Adult Dependent Relative Visa application is case specific. However, useful supporting documents include:

• Medical reports.

• Country reports.

• Culture factors relevant to your situation.

Additionally, as part of an Adult Dependent Relative Visa application you will be required to:

• Provide evidence of the immigration status of your sponsor and their ability to financially support you. 

• Submit a signed undertaking stating that public funds won't be accessed on your behalf.

Please note that promises of support from third parties will not be accepted and, whilst cash savings obtained as a gift can be considered, they must be under the control of the UK family member who is sponsoring the application. 

The Home Office guidance gives examples of likely scenarios and possible outcomes. 

Adult Dependent Relative Application Fee

The Home Office application fee for an Adult Dependent Relative visa application made outside of the UK is £3,250 (subject to currency conversions). Applications made within the UK will cost £1048. 

You may also need to pay an additional fee for a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre. This cost is not refunded if the application is refused.

How long will my parents be able to stay in the UK?

How long your parents will be able to stay in the UK with an Adult Dependent Relative Visa, depends on the status of the UK-based family member:

• If the UK-based family member is British, Irish, or settled in the UK, your parents can stay in the UK indefinitely. They will not need to apply for a visa extension or settlement.

• If the UK-based family member has protection status (leave to remain as a refugee, permission to stay as a refugee or a person with humanitarian protection), your parents can stay in the UK for as long as the UK-based family member does. In this case, your parents will need to apply to extend their visa or settle in the UK at the same time as the UK-based family member.

• If the UK-based family member has pre-settled status in the UK, they must have started living in the UK before 1 January 2021. If this is met, your parents can stay in the UK for the same duration as the UK-based family member. They will need to apply to extend their visa or settle in the UK at the same time as the UK-based family member.

Alternative options to bring your elderly parents to the UK

There are other options which will enable you to bring your elderly parents to the UK for a shorter stay. However, these options depend on their reason for visiting, their nationality, and the nationality of family members.

A detailed chronological immigration history, and full consultation will be required in order to discuss the merits of other possible routes for coming to the UK.

How can Paragon Law help? 

At Paragon Law, our team of immigration lawyers will assess your case and offer personalised advice tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. This is especially crucial if you intend to bring your elderly parents to the UK, as there are numerous options to consider, and the Adult Dependent Relative Visa entails stringent criteria. We understand the complexities involved and will guide you through the process to ensure the best outcome for your situation.