Extension Of Parent Of A British Child Visa (5 Years Route)
If you are currently in the UK with leave to remain as a parent of a British child under the 5-year route, you may be eligible to apply for a visa extension. The application must be submitted online using the FLR (M) form. Upon a successful extension application, you will be granted an additional 30 months (2.5 years) of leave to remain, allowing you to complete the 5-year qualifying period required to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as the parent of a British child.
To qualify for an extension, you must meet the criteria outlined in Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules. You can expedite your application by using the Super Priority Service, which ensures a decision from the Home Office UKVI within 24 hours. Aden & Co Solicitors can provide expert legal advice and assistance to guide you through the process, ensuring your application is professionally prepared and compliant with the relevant requirements.
Complimentary Immigration Guidance for Extending the Parent of a British Child Visa (5-Year Route)
Aden & Co Solicitors offers expert immigration advice to assist you in extending your Parent of a British Child Visa. Our team of experienced immigration solicitors provides a one-time free consultation online, ensuring that you receive accurate guidance tailored to your case. Submit your query online for immediate advice, or schedule a detailed consultation with our specialists for comprehensive assistance with your visa extension application.
Specialist Solicitors for Parent of a British Child Visa Extension (5-Year Route)
Aden & Co Solicitors are highly experienced in managing visa extension applications for parents of British children under the 5-year route. Our dedicated family visa solicitors offer expert legal advice and professional representation on a fixed-fee basis, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for your application. We can prepare and submit your application using the Super Priority Service, allowing you to receive a decision within 24 hours.
At Aden & Co Solicitors, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional UK immigration services. Our team of fully qualified and experienced immigration solicitors has earned a 5-star Google review rating from 99% of our satisfied clients, reflecting the outstanding quality of our legal assistance.
How Much Does It Cost to Extend a Parent of a British Child Visa (5-Year Route)?
If you’re planning to extend your visa under the Parent of a British Child (5-Year Route), it’s essential to understand the associated costs and services. Below is a breakdown of our fees and what’s included:
Aden & Co Solicitors Fixed Fees for Visa Extension
Our fixed fee for handling your visa extension application ranges between £1,000 + VAT and £1,500 + VAT, depending on the complexity and amount of work involved.
Our Fixed Fee Includes:
- Comprehensive advice on required documents
- Thorough document checks to ensure accuracy
- Completion and submission of the online application form
- Booking your biometric enrolment appointment
- Drafting a professional cover letter in support of your application
- Uploading and submitting all supporting documentation
- Ongoing communication with the Home Office UKVI until a decision is made
The fixed fee will be agreed upon based on your case’s complexity and the amount of work required. An initial payment of 50% is due at the start of your case, with the remaining 50% payable once your application has been fully prepared and is ready for submission.
Struggling with the cost of a full-service immigration package? Aden & Co Solicitors offers a budget-friendly solution. You can schedule an online appointment for a one-time immigration advice and consultation session at a fixed fee of £100 (inclusive of VAT). Alternatively, take advantage of our professional immigration document-checking service for a fixed fee of £300 (inclusive of VAT).
UKVI Charges for Your Application
Along with the fixed professional fee charged by Aden & Co Solicitors for managing your application, you must also pay the UK Home Office fees. The standard UKVI application fee is £1,258, accompanied by an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £2,587.50, bringing the total UKVI fee to £3,845.50.
If you require an expedited decision, you have the option to pay an additional £1,000 for the Super Priority Service, ensuring your application is processed within 24 hours.
How to Apply for a Parent of a British Child Visa Extension (5-Year Route)?
If you are seeking to extend your visa as the parent of a British child under the 5-year route, follow these essential steps for a successful application:
- Complete the Online FLR (M) Form: Access the UKVI website and fill out the FLR (M) application form.
- Pay Required Fees: Submit your application online and pay the mandatory Home Office fees, which include the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Book Your Biometrics Appointment: Create an account on the UKVCAS portal to schedule your biometrics appointment.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Ensure all required documents are uploaded online before your scheduled biometrics appointment.
- Attend Your Biometrics Appointment: Bring your BRP card, passport, and biometrics appointment confirmation letter when attending your appointment.
- Wait for a Decision: Processing time may take 3 to 6 months for standard service or 24 hours if you opt for the Super Priority Service.
When Can You Apply for an Extension of a Parent of a British Child Visa?
You are eligible to apply for an extension 28 days before your current leave expires. Ensure you meet the requirements outlined in Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules. Applications can be made through:
- Standard Service: Decision within 3 to 6 months.
- Super Priority Service: Decision within 24 hours.
Can I Apply for a Parent of a British Child Visa Extension (5-Year Route) Using Super Priority Service?
At Aden & Co Solicitors, our expert family visa solicitors in London are accredited with the UK Home Office, UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI), and its commercial partner, UKVCAS Sopra Steria. We offer the Super Priority Service for those applying to extend their Parent of a British Child visa under the 5-year route. This premium service ensures a decision on your application within 24 hours of submission.
Our experienced team is dedicated to preparing and submitting your application efficiently through the Super Priority Service. By using this service, you can avoid lengthy processing times that may otherwise take months or even years, giving you peace of mind with a swift resolution to your application.
What Are the Requirements for a Parent of a Child Visa Extension (5-Year Route)?
For applicants seeking an extension under the Parent of a Child Visa (5-Year Route), it is crucial to meet the eligibility criteria outlined in Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules. Below are the essential requirements:
- Residency: Both the applicant and the child must be residing in the UK at the time of the application.
- Valid Application: The applicant must submit a valid and complete application for the extension.
- Current Visa Status: The applicant must already hold leave to remain as the parent of a British child under this visa route.
- Child’s Eligibility: The applicant’s child must meet the following conditions:
- Be under 18 years old at the time of application.
- Reside in the UK.
- Be either a British citizen, settled in the UK, or living in the UK with limited leave under Appendix EU (as per paragraph GEN.1.3.(d)). Alternatively, the child must have lived in the UK for at least seven continuous years, and paragraph EX.1. must apply.
The applicant must demonstrate one of the following:
- Sole Parental Responsibility: The applicant must have sole parental responsibility for the child, or the child must normally live with the applicant and not with their other parent (who is either a British citizen, settled in the UK, or in the UK with limited leave under Appendix EU). Additionally, the applicant must not qualify to apply for leave to remain as a partner under Appendix FM.
- Shared Custody with Non-Partner Parent: If the child resides with another parent or caregiver, that individual must:
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- Be a British citizen, settled in the UK, or holding limited leave under Appendix EU.
- Not be the applicant’s partner (including anyone in a relationship with the applicant for less than two years before the date of application).
- The applicant must not qualify to apply for leave to remain as a partner under Appendix FM.
- To meet the UK immigration requirements, applicants must provide substantial evidence demonstrating the following criteria:
- Parental Responsibility: Proof must be submitted that the applicant has sole parental responsibility for the child or that the child regularly resides with them. Alternatively, the applicant must show that they have direct access to the child, either through mutual agreement with the child’s primary carer or under a court order issued in the UK.
- Active Involvement in Upbringing: The applicant must establish that they are actively involved in raising the child and have a genuine intention to continue fulfilling that role.
- Financial Stability and Accommodation: Evidence must be provided that the applicant can adequately support and accommodate themselves and their dependants in the UK without needing public funds. Additionally, the applicant must show that suitable accommodation is available for the family, including any non-applicant family members living in the same household. This accommodation must be exclusively owned or occupied by the family.
- English Language Requirement: Applicants must meet the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) Level A2 to prove their proficiency in English, as mandated by the UK Immigration Rules.
Understanding Sole or Shared Parental Responsibility for a British Child
To be eligible for a Parent of a British Child Visa, you must demonstrate that you have either sole or shared parental responsibility for your child. If your parental responsibility is shared, the child’s other parent must not be your partner. Additionally, the other parent must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be a British or Irish citizen
- Hold settled status in the UK, such as indefinite leave to remain, permanent residence, or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
- Be a citizen of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein with pre-settled status (provided they started living in the UK before 1 January 2021)
If the child resides with the other parent or a different carer, you must have in-person access to the child, as agreed through a mutual arrangement or a court order. Moreover, it is essential to provide evidence that you are actively involved in the child’s upbringing and that you intend to maintain this role after your visa application.
Understanding the Adequate Maintenance Requirement
To secure a successful Parent of a British Child Visa extension under the 5-year route, applicants must fulfill the financial requirement of adequate maintenance as stipulated by UK immigration law. Aden & Co Solicitors can help guide you through this crucial step with expert advice.
The Home Office (UKVI) evaluates your financial standing using a specific formula to ensure you meet the adequate maintenance threshold:
A – B ≥ C
Where:
- A represents your net income (after deducting income tax and National Insurance contributions).
- B refers to your housing expenses (including rent and council tax).
- C equals the amount of Income Support that a British family of similar size is entitled to receive.
In essence, your remaining income after deducting housing costs must be equal to or greater than the amount of Income Support available to a comparable British household.
Applicants are required to present sufficient evidence demonstrating that they can maintain and accommodate themselves and any dependants in the UK without relying on public funds. Failure to meet this requirement may result in the refusal of the application.
What Is the Adequate Accommodation Requirement?
Applicants must present specified evidence demonstrating that adequate accommodation is available for their family without relying on public funds. This requirement extends to other family members who are not part of the current application but live within the same household. The accommodation must be exclusively owned or occupied by the family. Accommodation will be deemed inadequate if:
- It is, or is expected to be, overcrowded, or
- It violates public health regulations.
Ensuring your accommodation meets these standards is crucial to the success of your application. Aden & Co Solicitors can help you navigate this requirement with expert guidance.
What Is the English Language Requirement?
Applicants must provide proof of meeting the English language requirement through one of the following methods:
- Nationality: Being a citizen of a majority English-speaking country.
- Language Test: Passing an approved English language test in speaking and listening at a minimum of level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) with a Home Office-approved provider.
- Academic Qualification: Holding an academic degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) that is recognized by UK Ecctis as equivalent to a UK degree and was taught in English.
Applicants may be exempt from the English language requirement if, at the time of application:
- They are 65 years or older,
- They have a physical or mental disability that prevents them from meeting the requirement, or
- There are exceptional circumstances preventing compliance with this requirement prior to entry into the UK.
Can I Reapply for an Extension of Parent of a British Child Visa After Refusal?
Yes, it is possible to reapply for an extension of the Parent of a British Child visa if your initial application has been refused by the Home Office UKVI and you believe an appeal would not be successful. Any fresh application must comply with the requirements set out in Paragraph 39E of the UK Immigration Rules. To improve your chances, it is advisable to submit the new application using the Super Priority Service, which offers a decision within 24 hours. Seeking professional guidance ensures your application is prepared thoroughly, meeting the necessary standards to avoid further refusals.
How Can I Appeal Against a Refusal of Parent of a British Child Visa Extension?
If your visa extension application has been refused and you’ve been granted the right to appeal, you must submit your appeal to the First-tier Tribunal within 14 days of receiving the refusal notice. You may succeed in your appeal by arguing that the refusal decision was either not in line with immigration rules or violated your right to private and family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). An Immigration Judge at the tribunal will review and decide your case. At Aden & Co Solicitors, our expert family visa solicitors can represent you throughout the appeals process, providing you with tailored legal support to challenge the refusal effectively.
How Can Aden & Co Solicitors Assist You?
At Aden & Co Solicitors, our team of expert family visa solicitors offers top-tier legal advice and representation for your Parent of a British Child visa extension application on a fixed fee basis. We manage every aspect of your application, ensuring a seamless process until the UK Home Office makes a decision. Our immigration solicitors provide comprehensive assistance at every stage, including:
Tailored Immigration Advice
Our specialist team will offer you detailed guidance on the specific legal requirements you must meet to increase the chances of success for your Parent of a British Child visa extension application.
Document Guidance
You will receive a carefully prepared checklist of the supporting documents required for a successful application. We’ll ensure your documentation aligns with the latest Home Office standards and immigration regulations.
Document Review and Verification
Our solicitors will meticulously review your documents to ensure they meet the Home Office criteria and support your case effectively. This critical step helps minimize errors and strengthen your application.
Completing Your Application Form
Our immigration lawyers will complete the necessary application forms on your behalf, ensuring all information is accurate and consistent with your documents.
Super Priority Service Submission (24-Hour Decision)
If required, we can submit your application via the Super Priority Service, enabling you to receive a decision within 24 hours.
Appointment Scheduling for Biometric Enrolment
Following online submission, we will arrange your biometric appointment at the visa application centre and provide clear guidance on what to expect.
Comprehensive Cover Letter
Our legal team will draft a detailed, persuasive cover letter, explaining how your application meets the legal requirements and justifying why it should be approved by the Home Office.
Online Document Submission
Before your biometric appointment, we will upload all supporting documents to the relevant online portal, ensuring everything is ready for Home Office review.
Follow-Up and Continuous Support
Our team will handle all necessary follow-ups with the UKVI, keeping you informed until a final decision is made on your application.
Why Choose Aden & Co Solicitors for Parent of a British Child Visa Extension (5-Year Route)?
When applying for an extension of the Parent of a British Child Visa (5-Year Route) within the UK, it is crucial to have reliable legal support. At Aden & Co Solicitors, we offer unparalleled immigration services to ensure a seamless application process. Here’s why we are the preferred choice for clients:
Superior Legal Expertise
Our highly experienced family visa solicitors in London deliver top-tier legal services for the Parent of a British Child Visa extension. The exceptional quality of our work is reflected in the 5-star Google Reviews left by 99% of our satisfied clients.
Remote Legal Assistance
We utilize cutting-edge technology to provide expert immigration advice and representation remotely. Whether you prefer in-person consultations or virtual services, we offer flexibility and convenience, saving you time and travel expenses. With our remote services, you can have your application professionally managed without visiting our office.
Available 7 Days a Week
We understand that immigration matters require immediate attention. That’s why our team is available 7 days a week to provide dedicated advice and legal support for Parent of a British Child Visa applications.
Qualified Immigration Solicitors
All legal work is handled by fully qualified and highly experienced immigration solicitors. Our team specializes in Parent of a British Child Visa cases and ensures that your application is meticulously prepared and submitted with the highest standards.
Fast-Track and Priority Services
We aim to expedite the application process for our clients. Where possible, we use the Super Priority Visa Service to secure a decision within 24 hours. Our solicitors are committed to preparing and submitting your application in the shortest possible timeframe.
Complimentary Online Consultation
We offer free initial immigration advice online for those seeking assistance with their Parent of a British Child Visa extension. Simply submit your enquiry through our website, and our expert team will provide tailored advice.
Transparent Fixed Fees with Flexible Payment Plans
Our legal services are offered at affordable, fixed fees. To make the process more accessible, we provide a two-instalment payment plan—half of the fee is paid at the start of your case, and the remaining half upon completion and submission of your application to the Home Office.
What Additional Services Do We Offer for the Parent of a British Child Visa?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Extension of Parent of a British Child Visa (5-Year Route)
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the application process for extending a parent of a British child visa under the 5-year route:
Can I apply for an extension of a parent of a child visa (5-year route) through the Super Priority Service?
Yes, you can apply for the extension or renewal of a parent of a child visa under the 5-year route using the Super Priority Service. This service ensures a decision on your application within 24 hours.
As expert family visa solicitors at Aden & Co Solicitors, we are officially registered with the Home Office, UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI), and UKVCAS Sopra Steria to offer the Super Priority Service. This means your application for a parent of a British child visa can be processed and decided within 24 hours through this fast-track option.
Our dedicated family visa solicitors will assist you in preparing and submitting your application promptly, allowing you to avoid the prolonged waiting periods that standard applications may face.
What if I do not meet the adequate maintenance requirement for the 5-year route?
If you cannot meet the adequate maintenance requirement while on the 5-year parent of a child visa route, you may switch to the 10-year route from within the UK. Switching to the 10-year route is a viable option for applicants who face difficulties meeting the financial threshold.
Many applicants who transition from the 5-year route to the 10-year route eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the 10-year long residence category. Once you have completed 10 years of continuous and lawful residence in the UK—regardless of the visa categories you have held, including both 5-year and 10-year parent of a child visas—you can apply for ILR under the 10-year long residence route (SET LR application).
Which Application Form Should I Complete to Apply for an Extension of the Parent of a British Child Visa (5-Year Route)?
To apply for an extension under this category, you must complete the FLR (M) application form online. This form is specifically designed for those extending their visa as the parent of a British child.
When Should I Apply for an Extension of the Parent of a British Child Visa (5-Year Route)?
You are eligible to apply for an extension within 28 days before your current visa expires. Ensure you submit your application on time to avoid overstaying or affecting your immigration status.
What are the Mandatory Suitability Grounds for Refusal of a Parent of a British Child Visa Extension?
An application for the extension of a Parent of a British Child Visa (5-year route) will be mandatorily refused if any of the following grounds apply:
- Deportation Order: The applicant is currently subject to a deportation order.
- Serious Criminal Convictions:
- The applicant has been sentenced to imprisonment for at least four years.
- The applicant has been sentenced to imprisonment for at least 12 months but less than four years, unless 10 years have passed since the sentence’s completion.
- Public Good Concerns: The applicant’s presence in the UK is deemed not conducive to the public good due to:
- Convictions causing serious harm.
- Persistent offending, demonstrating a disregard for UK law.
- Conduct, character, or associations that render it undesirable for the applicant to remain in the UK.
- Failure to Comply with Legal Requirements: Refusal will also apply if the applicant has failed, without reasonable excuse, to:
- Attend an interview.
- Provide requested information or physical data.
- Undergo a medical examination or submit a medical report.
- Exclusion Under Refugee and Humanitarian Rules:
- The Secretary of State has determined that the applicant is excluded under Article 1F of the Refugee Convention or paragraph 339D of the Immigration Rules.
- The applicant poses a security risk to the UK or has previously been excluded from humanitarian protection due to serious crimes or threats to the public.
When assessing the applicant’s presence in the UK, any legal or practical barriers to removal are disregarded in this context.
What Are the Discretionary Suitability Grounds for Refusal of the Parent of a British Child Visa Extension?
An application for an extension of the Parent of a British Child visa may be refused on suitability grounds if any of the following conditions are met:
- False Information or Misrepresentation
- Submission of false documents or information in support of the application, knowingly or unknowingly.
- Failure to disclose relevant facts that could impact the decision of the application.
- Failure to Provide a Maintenance and Accommodation Undertaking
- If requested under paragraph 35 of the Immigration Rules and not provided, the application may be refused.
- Non-compliance with Marriage Investigation Notice
- The applicant and their partner may be refused if they fail to cooperate with a marriage or civil partnership investigation under section 50(7)(b) of the Immigration Act 2014.
- Previous False Representations or Misleading Information
- The applicant may be refused if they have previously submitted false information or failed to disclose material facts in any prior application for entry clearance, leave to remain, or a human rights claim.
- This applies whether or not the previous application was successful and includes obtaining documents from the Secretary of State or third parties through deceit.
- Unpaid Litigation Costs
- If the applicant has been ordered to pay litigation costs to the Home Office but has failed to comply, it could result in refusal.
- Outstanding NHS Charges
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- The applicant may face refusal if they owe at least £500 in unpaid charges to relevant NHS bodies, as notified to the Secretary of State under NHS regulations on overseas visitor charges.