For many people who have settled in the UK, one of the biggest questions is whether their parents can join them on a permanent basis. While it is natural to want loved ones close by, UK immigration law places strict limits on family migration. The rules are especially tough when it comes to parents, and very few routes lead to long-term settlement.
Understanding what is and is not possible is essential before making an application. In this guide, we look at the options for parents who want to live in the UK, the eligibility criteria and the challenges that families face.
Visitor visa: short-term only
The simplest way for parents to spend time in the UK is with a Standard Visitor Visa. This allows them to come for up to six months at a time, with the possibility of applying for a longer-term multi-entry visa that lasts two, five or even ten years.
However, a visitor visa is strictly for temporary stays. It does not provide a pathway to permanent residence or settlement, and holders cannot switch into another visa category while in the UK. Parents on this visa also cannot work, access public funds or live here full-time.
Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) visa: the permanent route
The only immigration route designed to allow parents to settle permanently in the UK is the Adult Dependent Relative visa. This visa is aimed at parents who, due to age, illness or disability, require long-term personal care that can only realistically be provided by their child in the UK.
The requirements are very strict. To qualify, the parent must show that adequate care is not available or affordable in their home country. The UK-based sponsor must also be a British citizen or settled person and demonstrate they can financially support their parent without relying on public funds.
While the ADR visa leads to indefinite leave to remain for successful applicants, approvals are rare. The Home Office applies a high threshold, and many applications are refused on the grounds that care could still be provided abroad. For families, this makes the ADR visa one of the most difficult immigration routes to pursue.
Family visa under Appendix FM
There is no general parent visa that allows someone to bring their parents to the UK for permanent settlement simply on the basis of their relationship. The family visa system under Appendix FM mainly covers partners, spouses and dependent children. Parents cannot usually be included unless there are exceptional circumstances.
In very limited cases, parents may be able to apply under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects the right to family and private life. However, these applications are complex, discretionary and only succeed in exceptional situations where refusal would cause unjustifiably harsh consequences. Legal support is almost always required for such claims.
Summary of routes
| Route | Purpose | Path to settlement | Likelihood of success |
| Visitor visa | Short stays up to six months | No | Common and accessible |
| Adult Dependent Relative visa | Care-based settlement for dependent parents | Yes | Rarely approved |
| Family visa/Article 8 claim | Exceptional cases only | Possible | Uncommon and complex |
The next steps for your case
For those hoping to bring parents to the UK permanently, the Adult Dependent Relative visa is the only formal route. However, the eligibility bar is set very high and most applications are unsuccessful. For the majority of families, the visitor visa remains the most practical way for parents to spend time in the UK, though this does not lead to settlement.
If you believe your situation may qualify under the ADR route, or if there are exceptional family circumstances, seeking professional legal advice is vital. At Osbourne Pinner’s immigration law experts help families navigate these complex applications and understand the options available. We also offer a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your case in confidence.
Come to our offices in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus or Manchester. Or contact us remotely on a video call. To get started, call us on 0203 983 5080, email [email protected] or book your consultation using the form below.
