The refugee family reunion route is currently closed to new applications. We cannot offer new applications under it. We can advise on existing cases and on other family routes that might apply.
Information checked against the sources listed below on 10 October 2026. Rules, fees and thresholds change; this is general information, not advice on your case, and does not assess whether you qualify.
What the official guidance says.
- GOV.UK says that the partner or child of a person with this status cannot apply to join them in the UK through family reunion, and that applications are no longer being accepted.
- People who applied before 3pm on 4 September 2025 will still have their cases processed. GOV.UK says they should receive a decision within 12 months.
- The Immigration Rules say the appendix is closed to new applications pending a review.
- GOV.UK suggests family members may be able to apply for a family visa instead. The Immigration Rules say a partner or child of a person with protection status must apply under Appendix FM until further notice.
- There is a separate route for a child under 18 to join or stay with a close relative with protection status, in limited circumstances, if the relative is not settled or a British citizen.
What usually decides the outcome.
- Whether an application was made before the 4 September 2025 cut-off.
- Whether the sponsor’s status is as a refugee, or something else, and whether they are now settled or a British citizen.
- Whether a family visa, such as a partner or child visa, is realistic, including the financial requirement.
- Any human rights considerations specific to your family.
How we can help.
Depending on what you need, support can range from a first conversation to full representation. Ask for the scope of any work, and an explanation of our fees and separate government charges, in writing before you instruct the firm.
- Initial consultation and eligibility assessment. A conversation about your circumstances, the routes that may apply and the risks.
- Written advice and immigration planning. A considered view on your options and a plan that looks ahead to extensions, settlement or citizenship.
- Document and application checking. A review of an application or evidence you have prepared, before you submit it.
- Full application preparation and representation. Preparing and submitting the application, and dealing with the Home Office on your behalf.
- Responses to Home Office requests. Help answering requests for further information, interviews or evidence.
- Refusal analysis and next steps. Understanding why an application failed and whether to seek review, appeal, judicial review or make a fresh application.
Before you contact us
- Write a short summary of your circumstances and what you want to achieve.
- Note any decision dates, expiry dates or deadlines.
- Do not send passport numbers or sensitive documents in the first enquiry. We will explain how to share them securely.