If you’re aged between 18 and 24 and have lived in the UK for at least half of your life, you may be eligible to apply for a Private Life Visa. This route allows young adults to remain in the UK based on their established private life ties.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify under this category, you must:
- Be between 18 and 24 years old.
- Have lived in the UK continuously for at least half of your life.
- Demonstrate that returning to your home country would result in very significant obstacles to your integration.
These obstacles could include, but are not limited to:
- Lack of family or social support networks.
- Limited access to healthcare or education.
- Cultural or language barriers.
- Political instability or conflict in your home country.
Application Process
- Prepare Your Evidence: Gather documentation that supports your claim of very significant obstacles. This may include medical records, letters from family or community members, or reports detailing conditions in your home country.
- Complete the Application Form: Submit the appropriate form to the Home Office. Ensure all sections are accurately filled out and all required documents are included.
- Pay the Application Fee: The fee varies depending on your specific circumstances. Refer to the official Home Office website for the most current fee information.
- Attend a Biometrics Appointment: You will be required to provide biometric information as part of your application process.
- Await a Decision: Processing times can vary.
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Duration and Settlement
- Initial Leave: If granted, you will receive 2.5 years (30 months) of leave to remain.
- Extension: You can apply to extend your stay before your current leave expires.
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for ILR, provided you meet all other requirements.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who qualifies?
Applicants aged 18–24 who’ve lived continuously in the UK for over 50% of their lives.
Does my immigration status matter?
No, even undocumented individuals may qualify if they meet the residence requirement.
What counts as ‘continuous residence’?
Living in the UK without long absences (usually no trips over 6 months or 18 months total).
Can I include family members?
Each person must qualify individually, but dependants may apply separately if eligible.
How can ICONIQ Solicitors help with a Young Adult application?
Absolutely, we guide you through eligibility, evidence, and submission. Contact us to get started.