Family Reunion

Many people who apply for asylum in the UK have been separated from/ left their family member behind in their country especially in countries devastated by war or political meltdown and want to be reunited with their family when they have been awarded status. In general, family reunion can be a long and complicated process and you should seek the help of a lawyer.

.: Family reunion for people with refugee status (ILR).

An adult who is over 18 who has been granted a refugee status can ask the Home Office for family reunion i.e. for close family members such as Husband, Wife, Children under 18 to join them here in the UK. In special circumstances, applications can be made for other relatives. The person abroad should apply to the British Embassy or High Commission at the same time.

.: Family reunion for people with ELR.

Adults with ELR can apply for family reunion:
After four years residence in the UK with ELR, when you can show that you do not need public funds (money) to support /look after your family.

Application for family reunion can be made before four years in compelling compassionate circumstance. Example of these might be where family members are unwell or unable to care for themselves. You can also visit the International Red Cross for more information for lost families in countries of war and disaster. Unaccompanied children with refugee status or ELR do not have the right for their parents to join them in the UK.