Child
Overview: Moving to a new country can be a big adventure, especially for a child joining their parents in the UK. The process makes sure families can be together while keeping everything safe and legal. It’s about reuniting loved ones and starting a new chapter together.
A child (person under 18 years of age) can obtain a visa for permanent residence (“Indefinite leave to remain in UK as long as both parents are settled in UK.
Requirements
- one parent is dead and the other is settled or going to settle in UK, or
- the parent who is settled or going to settle in the UK has had sole responsibility for the child’s upbringing
- one parent is settled or going to settle in the UK and there are serious reasons why the child must be allowed to go to the UK
The term parent includes the stepfather or stepmother of a child whose father or mother is dead, both parents of an illegitimate child, and an adoptive parent in certain circumstances. There are other requirements for adopted children.
Take Away Points
💼 The UK offers structured pathways for child migration.
🌍 Children may join parents under specific visa categories.
📜 Legal guardianship proof is often a key requirement.
🏫 Access to education is generally available once settled.
🛡️ Safeguarding policies protect children’s welfare throughout.