Refugee Family Reunion

If you — or someone you represent — have been granted refugee status or humanitarian protection in the United Kingdom, specific rules may allow close family members to join you through the family reunion route. This route exists to help beneficiaries of protection rebuild family life in the UK when separation occurred due to conflict, persecution, or other serious circumstances.

At Mowbray Advisory, we provide clear, OISC-regulated advice for refugee family reunion applications, helping you understand eligibility, prepare supporting evidence, and manage the application process effectively.

What Is Refugee Family Reunion?

Refugee family reunion allows certain family members of people with refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK to apply for permission to join them here.

This is separate from standard family visas (such as spouse or partner routes) and must be based on the protected person’s status.

Who Qualifies as a Family Member?

You may be able to apply to join your family member in the UK if you are:

  • A spouse or civil partner of the protected person

  • A child of the protected person (including stepchildren)

  • In some cases, other dependent family members (subject to specific criteria)

Eligibility is influenced by:

  • Your relationship to the protected person

  • Your age and dependency status

  • Whether you were separated due to circumstances outside your control

Each case is judged on its own facts.

Key Eligibility Requirements

Protection Status

The sponsor (family member in the UK) must have refugee status or humanitarian protection.

Family Relationship

You must prove the genuine family connection supported by official documents.

Age and Dependency

Dependent children and certain dependent relatives may qualify if they rely on the protected person.

Timing

Family reunion applications are generally expected to be made while the protected person holds valid status.

Documentation and evidence are essential, including birth/marriage certificates and evidence of dependency.

Application Process — Overview

The refugee family reunion application typically involves:

  1. Confirming eligibility based on the protected person’s status

  2. Gathering evidence of relationship and dependency

  3. Completing the application form and paying any relevant fees

  4. Submitting supporting documents and biometrics

  5. Awaiting a decision from the Home Office or appropriate processing authority

Processing times can vary depending on individual circumstances and country of application.

Differences from Standard Family Visas

Unlike standard family visas:

  • Family reunion routes are based on protection status, not immigration history or sponsorship by employment or settlement status.

  • Some standard family routes (e.g., spouse visas) may still be available alongside refugee family reunion, depending on your personal circumstances.

We can help clarify which route is most appropriate in your case.

How We Can Help

We assist with every aspect of the refugee family reunion process, including:

  • Eligibility assessment

  • Document organisation and review

  • Application strategy and evidence planning

  • Form completion and submission guidance

  • Liaison during processing, where required

You’ll work directly with your adviser throughout your case, with clear communication and practical advice.

Speak to an Immigration Adviser

If you’re planning to apply for a Refugee Family Reunion and want to avoid unnecessary delays or common pitfalls, we can help.
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