Suspension of family reunion applications

With the government announcing that they will be temporarily suspending all refugee family reunion applications, RMC explores what this might mean for families.

Published on: September 4, 2025

Written by: RMC’s Immigration Department

Last updated 4/9/25

What has the Government announced in relation to family reunion applications?

The family reunion route is closed for new applications. This took effect on 04th September at 3:00pm.

The Government has announced that they will change the family reunion rules in spring 2026 and will add more requirements.

What will the changes to the family reunion rules be?

We do not know yet but we expect that the requirements will be stricter.

Some likely changes are:

Minimum income requirement

Adequate accommodation

A minimum period of waiting before a refugee can sponsor their family members

English language requirements for the family members applying

When will the rules change?

Family reunion applications closed on 04th September at 3:00pm.

New family reunion rules will introduced in a few months, most likely next spring.

Who is affected by this change?

This change affects spouses and children of refugees and of those with humanitarian protection who are abroad and want to join them in the UK.

Applications from family members of British Citizens, settled people (other than refugees and beneficiaries of humanitarian protection) and EEA nationals are not affected by this change.

Are refugees and those with humanitarian protection able to apply for their family members to join them in the UK now that family reunion application have closed?

Yes but they will need to apply under the Family Migration Rules (Appendix FM) applicable to British Citizens and settled people. There is an application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge applies to these applications but a fee waiver may be available. There are also financial and language requirements that applicants will need to meet.

People are encouraged to seek legal advice about their options and more information about these routes.

What about family reunion applications already submitted but where no decision has been received yet?

Any applications submitted before 3:00pm on 4th of September 2025 will be decided based on the old rules for family reunion. Anyone already granted a family reunion visa is not affected.