Apply as a child to join or stay with a close relative in the UK
After you apply
If you applied from outside the UK
You’ll get an email with a decision on your application within 12 weeks of having your fingerprints and photo (biometric information) taken.
If you applied from inside the UK
You’ll get a decision letter through the post.
If your application is approved
You’ll be given permission to stay in the UK for as long as your close relative has permission to stay. This could be up to 5 years.
If you’re given permission to stay for longer than 6 months, you’ll be able to access an online record that shows this (called an eVisa).
This will also allow you to enter the UK - if you applied from outside.
What you can and cannot do
With permission to stay, you can:
- study
- travel abroad and return to the UK
- apply to settle permanently in the UK (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) when your close relative applies or once they are settled
You usually cannot apply for most benefits (public funds).
You’ll get a full list of what you can and cannot do when your application is approved.
Applying for settlement
Settlement (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) gives you the right to:
- live, work and study in the UK for as long as you like
- apply for benefits if you’re eligible
When you can apply
You can apply for settlement if all of the following apply:
- you’ve already been given permission to join or stay with a close relative in the UK
- you’re already living in the UK
- your close relative is already settled in the UK - or is applying for settlement at the same time as you
- you’re not leading an independent life (for example, you must not be married or have moved into your own home)
- your relative is able to show that they can care for you until you are an adult