Family members of European Economic Area (EEA) citizens will be admitted to the UK without the need for leave to enter or remain as long as they can prove that they are the family member of an EEA citizen. This is normally done through a passport and an EEA family permit, family residence card or a permanent residence card.
What other ways can I be eligible for admission to the UK?
- Derivative rights of residence
If you are the carer of someone who has the right to remain in the UK, the carer’s child or are the child of an EEA citizen who has previously worked in the UK. - Surinder Singh judgement
If you are a family member of a British citizen who has lived and worked in another EEA country. - Retained right of residence
If you are the family member of an EEA citizen who has died, is no longer your spouse or civil partner or who has left the U
What does an EEA family permit do?
An EEA family permit will make it quicker and easier to enter the UK. Without one, you may face difficulties in getting a boarding pass and could experience delays. You may also be refused entry at the UK border without a permit.
- The permit is valid for 6 months and you may leave and re-enter the UK as many times as you like within that time.
- You may be eligible to stay in the UK after your EEA family permit expires.
- You may be eligible to apply for a UK residence card which can last for up to 5 years. It may then be possible to apply for a permanent residence card.