Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) Visa
Bringing an elderly or seriously ill parent or relative to the UK who requires long-term personal care.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
The Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) Visa is one of the most rigorously assessed routes in UK immigration law. Designed for parents, grandparents, siblings, or adult children of British or settled persons, it requires proving that the relative requires long-term personal care to perform everyday tasks (such as washing, dressing, cooking) as a result of age, illness, or disability, and that such care is not available or affordable in their home country.
Key Requirements & Highlights
- Applicant must require long-term daily personal care due to age, illness, or severe disability.
- Care must be practically unavailable or completely unaffordable in their country of origin.
- Sponsor must sign a 5-year maintenance undertaking covering all living and medical expenses.
- Grants immediate Indefinite Leave to Enter (ILE) if the sponsor is British or settled.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- Medical DossierObtain comprehensive independent medical assessments from treating physicians detailing exact functional limitations.
- Country Care SurveyCollate evidence proving local nursing care facilities do not exist, are unreachable, or cost beyond reasonable means.
- ApplicationFile online on GOV.UK with signed 5-year sponsorship undertaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are refusal rates high on the ADR route?
The Home Office applies a very strict standard of proof. Caseworkers frequently argue that care can be hired locally using funds remitted from the UK sponsor. Overcoming this requires clear medical evidence that only family care will suffice or that local facilities are genuinely inaccessible.
Need Guidance on Your Application?
Priyanshu Decodes provides clear route explanations, document planning, and consultation calls. For regulated legal advice or formal Home Office representation, always consult an IAA-registered adviser or an immigration solicitor.