Apply as a child to join or stay with a close relative in the UK

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How much it costs

How much it costs to apply depends on whether you’re applying from outside or inside the UK.

It costs:

  • £404 to apply from outside the UK
  • £1,258 to apply from inside the UK

Healthcare surcharge

You might also have to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. This allows you to access the NHS free of charge.

You’ll need to pay this if either:

  • you’re applying from inside the UK
  • you’re applying from outside the UK to stay for more than 6 months

The healthcare surcharge costs £776 per year if you’re under 18.

The total amount you’ll need to pay will depend on how long your close relative has permission to stay in the UK. For example, if your close relative has permission to stay for another 2 years, you’ll have to pay the healthcare surcharge for 2 years.

If you cannot afford the fees

If you cannot afford the application fee or healthcare surcharge, you can apply for a fee waiver.

How you apply depends on whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK.

If you’re applying from outside the UK

You’ll need to apply for the fee waiver online before you apply to join your close relative.

If you’re applying from inside the UK

Send a completed fee waiver request form along with your completed FLR(P) application form.

Documents you’ll need to provide

You’ll need to provide documents or other evidence that you cannot afford to pay the fees.

For example, 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
  • your monthly income and costs
  • details of any other income or expenses