What is an EEA Family Permit?
Effective April 6, 2015 – To use the UK National Health Service (NHS), non-EEA nationals are required to pay an extra £200 as part of their EEA Family Permit application.
A European Economic Area (EEA) family permit is for non-EEA family members of EEA nationals. It gives non-EEA family members the opportunity to join their family in the UK. With an EEA Family Permit, you can live and work in Britain as a dependent of an EEA national.
If you’re applying from overseas you should apply for entry clearance before travelling to the UK.
Who is suitable for an EEA Family Permit?
- Spouse/civil partner of a Swiss or EEA national
- Descendant (a child or grandchild under 21 years)
- Partner
- Dependant relative
- Brother
- Sister
- Aunt
- Uncle
- Cousin
- Niece or nephew
What are the requirements for an EEA Family Permit?
- The EEA citizen must be living in the UK and be employed, self-employed or studying
- For married couples, the non-EEA family member and the EEA citizen have to be legally married to each other
- For unmarried couples, the non-EEA family member and the EEA citizen need to prove that they have lived together for the last two years
- The non-EEA family member and the EEA citizen must have met in person
- The non-EEA family member and the EEA citizen must show they will be living together
- Either a non-EEA family member and an EEA citizen must be coming to the UK together or an EEA citizen must be in the UK already
Common questions asked about the EEA Family Permit
How long can I stay in the UK?
EEA nationals can stay in the UK for 6 months in which time they can apply for a Residence Permit that is valid for 5 years. Non-EEA family members can stay in the UK for 5 years.
When can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain?
All members of a family, including the EEA national, can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years.
Can I bring my children?
Yes, dependent children can be included on an EEA Family Permit application.