At First Law Solicitors, we assist family members of European Union, EEA, and Swiss citizens in securing their lawful residence in the United Kingdom. Our solicitors combine precise legal knowledge with a compassionate approach, ensuring that every application is both compliant with Home Office requirements and sensitive to the personal realities of modern cross-border families.
We understand that post-Brexit immigration law is complex. Whether you are applying under the EU Settlement Scheme, Appendix FM, or another route protecting your family life, we provide tailored legal support that safeguards your status and your family’s future.
Since the end of free movement in December 2020, most family members of EU citizens are now required to hold immigration status under either the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) or the Family Visa provisions in Appendix FM.
There are two main groups of applicants:
1. Those with EUSS Rights: Family members of EU citizens who were living in the United Kingdom before 31 December 2020 and who continue to benefit from Withdrawal Agreement protections.
2. Those Applying Under Appendix FM: Family members of EU citizens who arrived after 2021, or who are joining family members already settled or naturalised in the United Kingdom.
Our solicitors determine the correct route for your situation, ensuring that every case is prepared according to the latest Home Office and EUSS policy guidance.
The EU Settlement Scheme remains open for specific categories of family members, such as:
Applications under the Scheme must show both the family relationship and evidence that the applicant was either living in the United Kingdom before the end of 2020 or has maintained an ongoing relationship since that date.
We assist clients in reconstructing complex timelines, gathering historic residence evidence, and managing technical issues such as late applications or disputed dependency.
For EU nationals who arrived after the end of free movement, family reunification is governed by Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules.
Under this route, the EU sponsor must now hold either settled status, pre-settled status, or Indefinite Leave to Remain. The family member must meet eligibility requirements for relationship, financial stability, English language, and accommodation.
Our solicitors handle every stage of this process, from the initial eligibility assessment through to the final Home Office submission. Each case is supported by a detailed legal representation addressing both factual and human rights grounds under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
Many family members missed the original EUSS deadline for reasons beyond their control. The Home Office continues to accept late applications where there are reasonable grounds, such as illness, digital exclusion, or child welfare considerations.
We prepare comprehensive legal statements explaining these reasons, supported by evidence that meets the Home Office’s updated 2025 guidance on “reasonable grounds for delay.”
If your EUSS rights have lapsed, we also advise on applying under Appendix FM or Appendix Private Life, ensuring that your family life remains lawfully protected.
As of January 2026, all EU family members are issued with a digital immigration status (eVisa). Physical residence cards and Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) are no longer valid.
At First Law Solicitors, we file every application in compliance with the Data Use and Access Act 2025 (DUAA). Our systems use Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) and secure encrypted platforms for identity verification and document submission.
This ensures that your information is handled lawfully, efficiently, and in accordance with Home Office digital identity standards.
If your application is refused, you may have a right of appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) under the Withdrawal Agreement or on human rights grounds.
Our solicitors represent clients throughout the appeal process, ensuring that the tribunal understands the emotional, practical, and legal realities of your family life. We prepare full case bundles, legal submissions, and expert witness statements to secure the best possible outcome.
Strategic Expertise: Every case is supervised by a senior immigration solicitor with more than twenty years of experience in European and family migration law.
Human Rights Advocacy: We integrate ECHR principles into every application to ensure full protection of family unity and the welfare of any children involved.
Digital Assurance: All filings are DUAA-compliant and securely submitted through encrypted portals using Qualified Electronic Signatures.
Cross-Border Understanding: We work with clients across Europe, providing remote consultations and document preparation for families divided between the United Kingdom and EU member states.
At First Law Solicitors, we treat every case as a partnership. Our goal is not only to secure your visa but also to protect your family’s stability, dignity, and peace of mind.
If you are a family member of an EU national and wish to secure or extend your right to live in the United Kingdom, contact First Law Solicitors today for expert advice and professional representation.
Call 0044 161 224 4066
Complete our secure online enquiry form to schedule a private consultation with a senior immigration solicitor.
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