Family Reunion

The refugee family reunion route has been closed since 4 September 2025.

• Previously: refugees could bring their spouse and children under 18 for free
• There were no income, housing or language requirements
• Now: the standard family visa is used (same requirements as for everyone)

• Income of £29,000 per year
• English A1 for spouse
• Minimum 2 years of residence in the UK
• Relaunch expected spring 2026 — no specific date yet
• Core Protection route: family reunion not available at all

• Standard family visa (Appendix FM) — if you have income of £29,000
• Visitor visa — up to 6 months, no right to work. Apply at gov.uk
• Exceptional circumstances — in exceptional cases you can apply outside the rules
• If you have British citizenship — different rules apply

• Legal Aid covers family reunion cases
• You can challenge a refusal
• It is important to consult a specialist in immigration law

Find a lawyer →  |  Organisation database →

• Family tracing service: 0808 196 3651
• Restoring Family Links: redcross.org.uk/get-help/find-missing-family
• Free of charge
• They help find missing relatives

• Refugee Council: 020 7346 6700
• British Red Cross: 0808 196 3651
• Migrant Help: 0808 8010 503
• Refugee Family Reunion campaign groups
• Telegram chat: t.me/asylumUK