Why Choose Our Firm?

At Redhill Solicitors, we understand the emotional importance of being close to your child and the legal complexity that can come with such applications. Our expert legal team provides compassionate, thorough guidance to ensure your case clearly demonstrates your parental role and complies with UK immigration law. Let us help you stay close to what matters most your child.

Key requirements:

• The child must be under 18 and either a British citizen or have settled status.
• The applicant must not be in a subsisting relationship with the child’s other parent.
• The applicant must demonstrate direct and ongoing parental responsibility.
• Adequate accommodation and financial means to live without public funds.
• English language ability at CEFR A1 level.

Costs:

• Application fee: approx. £1,048 (inside the UK) or £1,846 (outside).
• Immigration Health Surcharge: approx. £1,560 for 2.5 years.
• Main documents needed:
• Child’s birth certificate naming the applicant as a parent.
• Proof of the child’s British citizenship or indefinite leave to remain.
• Evidence of parental involvement (letters from schools, GPs, family court orders).
• Documents showing regular communication or visit schedules.
• Financial evidence (bank statements, pay slips) and proof of accommodation.
• Valid passport and biometric residence permits (if applicable).

You should do the following:

• Do ensure your child is under 18, a British citizen or settled in the UK, or has lived in the UK continuously for at least 7 years, and it would be unreasonable for them to leave.
• Do demonstrate that you have an active and ongoing parental relationship with the child, even if you don’t live with them.
• Do provide evidence that you are taking part in the child’s life including shared parental responsibility, school involvement, and emotional and financial support.
• Do meet the financial requirement either through income (if applicable) or adequate maintenance without recourse to public funds.
• Do prove that there are no other family members in the UK who can care for the child in your absence, especially in private life or human rights-based applications.

You should not do the following:

• Don’t apply under the Parent route if you are still in a relationship with the child’s other parent you should apply under the Partner or Family visa routes instead.
• Don’t assume contact alone is enough UKVI expects detailed evidence of your day-to-day involvement and support in the child’s upbringing.
• Don’t submit your application without a clear child’s best interests argument especially if relying on Article 8 (right to family life).
• Don’t forget to include school, medical, or social care documents that show your involvement these are often critical to success.
• Don’t stay in the UK unlawfully while waiting to apply—timing is crucial, and gaps in lawful residence can harm your case.

Parent Visa – Tips & Tricks

• Include a detailed personal statement explaining your relationship with the child, living arrangements, caregiving responsibilities, and future plans.
• Gather strong supporting documents, such as school reports, letters from teachers, social workers, or health professionals confirming your parental involvement.
•  If separated or divorced, include court orders, contact arrangements, or any custody documentation that shows you have legal access or shared responsibility.
•  Highlight the emotional, developmental, and educational impact on the child if you were forced to leave the UK.
• If your immigration history is complex, explain it clearly and transparently especially if applying on private life or discretionary grounds.
• Work with the child’s other parent if possible a supporting letter from them acknowledging your active role can significantly strengthen your application.

Get in Touch Today

Whether you need immediate assistance or are planning ahead, our team is ready to help. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your legal needs and learn how we can assist you in achieving the best possible resolution to your situation.