At First Law Solicitors, we represent children of European Union, EEA, and Swiss citizens who are seeking to live lawfully in the United Kingdom with their parents or guardians. Our solicitors provide clear, compassionate, and technically precise guidance to ensure every application is fully compliant with the complex post-Brexit immigration framework.
We understand that for many families, the UK-EU legal landscape can seem uncertain. Our mission is to give clarity, structure, and peace of mind by guiding you through the correct route, whether through the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) or Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules.
The rights of children of EU nationals in the United Kingdom are protected under both domestic law and international human rights law. Following the end of free movement in December 2020, most EU citizens and their family members must hold lawful immigration status.
There are two primary legal routes for children of EU nationals:
1. The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) – for children of EU citizens who were living in the United Kingdom before 31 December 2020, or who continue to have an ongoing family relationship with a settled parent.
2. Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules – for children joining or remaining with parents who hold settled status, pre-settled status, or another form of indefinite leave under the new domestic system.
Our solicitors carefully assess your child’s personal history and family circumstances to determine the most suitable route and to ensure that all legal protections are preserved.
A child of an EU national can still apply under the EUSS if:
Applications under this route focus on proving the family relationship and the child’s residence or ongoing connection with the parent. Our firm ensures that every piece of evidence from birth certificates to residence records and school letters is properly formatted and verified for digital submission.
Late applications are still accepted if there are reasonable grounds for delay, such as the child’s age, parental oversight, or safeguarding concerns. We prepare clear and compassionate legal explanations to secure the Home Office’s approval.
For EU nationals who arrived in the United Kingdom after 2020, or whose EUSS rights have expired, applications are made under Appendix FM: Children.
This route is available to children under eighteen who are not married or in a civil partnership and who depend on their parent or guardian for care. The sponsoring parent must have lawful status, typically settled, pre-settled, or indefinite leave to remain.
The Home Office gives significant weight to the best interests of the child, as required by Section 55 of the Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009. Our solicitors emphasise welfare, stability, and family unity in every submission.
Strong evidence is crucial to the success of a child’s application. Typical documents include:
Our solicitors review every document to ensure compliance with Home Office evidential standards and prevent technical refusals.
Even where a child does not meet all technical requirements, the Home Office must still consider whether refusal would breach the right to family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
We present persuasive legal submissions demonstrating the child’s welfare, emotional bonds, and the practical consequences of separation. Our focus is always on the stability and long-term security of the child’s life in the United Kingdom.
Since January 2026, all successful applicants receive a digital eVisa confirming their immigration status. Physical residence cards and Biometric Residence Permits are no longer issued.
At First Law Solicitors, we manage every application in full compliance with the Data Use and Access Act 2025. Our systems use Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) and encrypted digital identity verification, ensuring that your family’s sensitive information is always secure.
This digital process allows parents to track applications in real time and share status securely with schools, healthcare providers, and employers.
Where an application is refused, you may have the right to appeal under the Withdrawal Agreement or on human rights grounds. We provide full representation before the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber), preparing detailed witness statements, expert reports, and legal submissions.
Our firm has a strong record in securing successful outcomes for children of EU nationals, including complex dependency and late-application cases.
Legal Precision: Every application is reviewed by a senior solicitor to ensure absolute compliance with Home Office guidance.
Compassionate Advocacy: We combine technical skill with empathy to protect each child’s best interests and family stability.
Digital Expertise: All submissions are DUAA-compliant, using advanced encryption and digital verification.
Holistic Strategy: We plan beyond the visa stage, helping families progress toward long-term settlement and British citizenship where eligible.
At First Law Solicitors, we see every child’s application as a matter of both law and heart. Our goal is not only to secure lawful status but to protect the foundation of a child’s future in the United Kingdom.
If you are the parent or guardian of a child of an EU national and need expert legal advice about their right to live in the United Kingdom, contact First Law Solicitors today.
Call 0044 161 224 4066
Complete our secure online enquiry form to schedule a confidential consultation with a senior immigration solicitor.
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