Q. What is the 7-year rule in a UK visa?

The 7-year rule visa in the UK allows children residing in the country for at least seven years to apply for permission to stay based on their private lives. This provision is part of the Immigration Rules, providing an opportunity for UK-born or minor entrants to seek permission to stay in the country.

Eligibility for the 7-Year Rule Visa

1. The child must be under 18.
2. Physical presence in the UK is required.
3. Minimum continuous residence of seven years, excluding imprisonment periods.
4. It must be deemed unreasonable for the child to leave the UK.

Factors Considered for Unreasonable Expectation

1. Integration into British society.
2. Reasonableness of returning to the parent's home country.
3. Medical needs or conditions are hard to treat in the child's home country.
4. Presence of friends and family in the UK.
5. Availability of extended family support in the UK.
6. Previous visits or returns to the child's home country.
7. Ability to reintegrate and continue education in the home country.
8. Language proficiency in the home country.

Application Process for the 7-Year Rule Visa

The application process for the 7-year rule visa unfolds through various steps:

1. Assemble documentation proving continuous UK residence for 7 years, such as school and medical records, along with utility bills. Supplementary documents may be necessary to support factors considered in the assessment of the unreasonable expectation to leave.
2. Accurately fill out the application form, ensuring alignment with the provided supporting documents. Thoroughly furnish all required information.
3. The  7-year rule visa fee is £1,067.20, covering the biometric fee of £19.20 per applicant. Additionally, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £1,560 to cater to healthcare costs during the visa period.
4. Submit the completed application form, supporting documents, and payment receipts to the Home Office.
5. Applicants have to make a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.