Apply as a child to join or stay with a close relative in the UK
Documents you'll need to apply
You’ll need to provide documents or other evidence to prove:
- your identity
- your relationship with your close relative
- that your relative has enough money to support you
Proving your identity
To prove your identity, you’ll need to provide a valid passport.
If you do not have this, you could provide:
- an expired passport or travel document
- a national identity card
- another official document - for example, a driving licence or an adoption certificate
- a certified copy of an official document that proves your identity
You’ll also need to have your fingerprints and photo (biometric information) taken at:
- a visa application centre - if you’re outside the UK
- a Visas and immigration Service and Support Centre - if you’re inside the UK
You’ll be asked to make an appointment when you apply.
Proving your relationship to your close relative
To prove your relationship, you’ll need to provide documents such as:
- birth certificates
- family photos that are clear and of good quality
- statements from you, your close relative and other family members that confirm your relationship
- phone records or messages such as emails, letters or social media messages
- evidence of money transfers such as bank statements
You can also provide DNA samples. You’ll need to arrange and pay for this yourself using a laboratory that meets Home Office requirements.
Proving that your relative has enough money to support you
You or your relative can provide:
- details of any support you get from charities or local authorities
- bank statements for the 6 months before you applied
- details of any income and expenses
- your monthly income and costs
- details of any other income or expenses
How to provide your documents
You can either:
- upload your documents when you make your appointment at the visa application centre or service point
- have them scanned at your appointment (you’ll normally need to pay a charge)
You may be asked for more documents. If you do not have the documents requested, you may still be able to apply.