Refugee family reunion

Improving family reunion in the UK

What’s wrong?

Refugee family reunion should be a vital and safe way for refugee families to reunite after they have been torn apart by war and persecution.

It has the potential to reduce dangerous journeys across oceans and continents to Europe and the UK.

The current visa process is not simple or accessible and the criteria is restricted to spouses and children under 18 years of age.

Simple changes could be made to the way people have to apply to be reunited that would make sure it is a safe way for families to be together again. Expanding the criteria to close family members will ensure families do not remain separated.

For those that do obtain a refugee family reunion visa, many face a multitude of barriers just to access the very basics, from suitable accommodation and an income, to fast access to schooling.

Families have to do this without any formal support, while navigating complex systems that don’t reflect the reality of life for a reunited refugee family. Despite family reunion being a key safe route for people to reach the UK, there has been very little focus on the outcomes for reunited refugee families.

Our recent reports:

The Long Road to Reunion found that for many families, this process is far from safe.
Together at Last reveals several factors that delay family integration and put them at risk of destitution.

man and child holding hands in silhouette looking at sunset

Our calls to decision makers

Make the family reunion process safer and more accessible by changing the process the family needs to follow to submit their application
Expand the definition of family member to include close family members such as minor siblings to enable families to reunite safely.
Reuniting refugee families should be supported to integrate as soon as possible when they arrive, with processes starting prior to their journey to the UK.

If you are a refugee who needs help with family reunion, find out more about our refugee family reunion services.