As of 4th September 2025, at 3:00pm, the Family Reunion route for new visa applications has officially closed. This marks a significant shift in UK immigration policy, with the Home Office confirming that new applications under Appendix Family Reunion (Sponsors with Protection) will no longer be accepted.

What’s Changing?

The Government has stated that new rules for family reunion will be introduced in spring 2026, with additional requirements to be imposed. These changes are expected to align family reunion cases more closely with broader family migration rules, including stricter thresholds for income, accommodation, and English language proficiency.

In the meantime:

Applicants must now apply under:

• Appendix FM, or
• Appendix Child Relative (Sponsors with Protection).

· Transitional provisions are in place for applications submitted before the 4th September deadline. These will still be processed under the previous Family Reunion rules.

· Appendix FM has been updated to reflect these changes, becoming the primary route for those seeking to reunite with family members under protection-based sponsorships.

· The child route under Appendix FM has also been expanded. It now explicitly includes children applying to join a parent who holds protection status, ensuring some continuity for vulnerable families.

Why the Change?

The Home Office attributes the suspension to increased pressure on housing and local services, citing a 30% rise in family reunion visas over the past year. In the 12 months ending June 2025, 20,817 family reunion visas were issued, a record number.

The current Labour Government argues that the route had become unsustainable due to the absence of requirements that apply elsewhere in the family migration system, such as:

• Minimum income thresholds
• Proof of adequate accommodation
• English language standards

How Muldoon Britton Can Help

If you are impacted by these changes or are unsure about which immigration route applies to you or your family, our experienced team at Muldoon Britton can help guide you through the updated requirements under Appendix FM and other applicable provisions.

Contact us today for specialist legal advice tailored to your situation.