Living in a country as a result of work commitments without your close family can be a very isolating experience. In the UK, one of the ways that this can be addressed is through use of an EEA Family Permit. This is a special mechanism available to those who are not European Union citizens, but have family members who are living and working in the EEA (European Economic Area). At Ash Norton, we regularly assist individuals who live and work in the UK to put the immigration arrangements in place necessary for being reunited with their family members.

What is an EU Family Permit?

The EU Family Permit allows people who are nationals of countries outside the EEA, but family members of EEA nationals based in the UK, to join them here. It is important to understand that an ‘EEA Family Member’ is carefully defined. It is designed for use by an EEA national’s spouse, children under 21 years old and other close family members who are part of the same household and still dependant on the EEA national.

If you are an EEA national, the permit allows a non-EEA family member to come to the UK and live with you. It tends to apply only where there is an intention that they will live with you for a long time or permanently.

What Are the EU Family Permit Criteria?

In order for your non-EEA family members to be able to make use of the permit, you as a national of the EEA must be exercising some form of European ‘Treaty Right’ in the UK. This could be through your being in employment, studying or self sufficient and living in the UK. It is also possible that, where sufficient time has passed, your family may be able to apply to stay in the UK on a more permanent basis.

Contact our EEA/EU Family Permit Lawyers Mayfair, London

At Ash Norton, we understand the stress and anxiety that being separated from loved ones can cause. We have a dedicated team of solicitors who are in constant dialogue with some of the leading practitioners in immigration law. We use our skills and knowledge to assist our clients with bringing their family to join them in the UK. Contact us now to learn more about how we can help.


Call us on: +44 (0)20 7629 3633


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