At First Law Solicitors, we represent parents who wish to remain in or return to the United Kingdom to care for or maintain a meaningful relationship with their children. These cases fall under the “Family Life as a Parent” route within Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules and are often among the most emotionally and legally complex areas of immigration law.
Based in Manchester and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA ID No: 665823), our immigration solicitors provide detailed, strategic representation in applications, refusals, and appeals involving parental responsibility, child welfare, and the right to family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
This immigration category allows a non-British or non-settled parent to live in the UK if they have a genuine and subsisting parental relationship with a qualifying child. The child must be:
Unlike partner-based applications, this route is independent of the applicant’s relationship status. Even if the parents are separated, what matters most is that the applicant plays an active and ongoing role in the child’s life.
We help parents present compelling evidence that demonstrates genuine involvement, emotional connection, and consistent contribution to the child’s upbringing.
Applications under this route are governed by Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules, particularly sections R-LTRPT (Requirements for Limited Leave to Remain as a Parent) and EX.1 (Exceptions to Certain Eligibility Requirements).
The key legal test is whether refusing the parent permission to stay would breach Article 8 ECHR, as it would result in an unjustified interference with the family life of the parent and child.
Under Section 55 of the Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009, the Home Office has a statutory duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in all immigration decisions. This means that every decision must prioritise what is in the child’s best interests, even when the parent does not meet every technical requirement.
To qualify under this category, an applicant must usually show:
Financial stability is also assessed. While there is no strict minimum income requirement as in partner routes, applicants must demonstrate that they can maintain and accommodate themselves and their child without recourse to public funds.
We ensure your evidence meets Home Office standards by preparing detailed statements, gathering supporting documentation, and addressing any potential inconsistencies before submission.
Many of our clients are separated or divorced and share care responsibilities through court-ordered arrangements or informal agreements. The Home Office accepts such cases if the parent demonstrates that their involvement is genuine and substantial.
We work closely with clients to provide:
In cases involving restricted access or conflict, we help secure or formalise parental contact through family law proceedings, ensuring immigration and family law strategies work in tandem.
If your child has lived in the UK for seven years or more, the Home Office must consider whether it would be “reasonable” to expect the child to leave.
This test is based on both legal precedent and Home Office guidance (as updated in October 2025). Factors include:
We prepare comprehensive representations that integrate welfare evidence, professional reports, and Article 8 arguments to ensure that the child’s best interests remain at the forefront of the decision-making process.
Where an application is refused, a right of appeal is often available if the refusal breaches Article 8 ECHR. The First-tier Tribunal considers proportionality — balancing the parent’s immigration history against the child’s right to stability and family life.
Our solicitors draft detailed appeal bundles, integrating case law such as KO (Nigeria) [2018] UKSC 53 and Azimi-Moayed [2013] UKUT 197, and ensuring all procedural steps comply with the Immigration and Asylum Chamber Rules.
We also assist with Judicial Reviews in complex cases involving procedural unfairness or unreasonable delay.
All applications are securely filed through the Home Office digital platform (MyHMCTS), using our encrypted client portal. Under the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, we implement digital identity verification and secure document storage, ensuring compliance with modern privacy and safeguarding standards.
At First Law Solicitors, we combine technical expertise with deep empathy for the families we represent. Every case benefits from:
Strategic Oversight: We align your immigration strategy with your child’s best interests and long-term welfare.
Holistic Legal Coordination: We work with family law specialists to ensure that custody and contact arrangements strengthen your immigration position.
Human Focus: We know these cases are personal. Our approach is discreet, reassuring, and grounded in compassion.
Our goal is to secure your lawful stay in the UK while preserving the family bond that matters most.
If you are a parent seeking to remain in the UK with your child, or your visa has been refused and you need to appeal, contact First Law Solicitors for expert representation.
Call 0044 161 224 4066
Complete our secure online enquiry form to arrange a confidential consultation.
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