7 Year Child Rule Application: Choosing and Completing the Right Form

Use the online form "Application to remain in the UK on the basis of family life or private life", known as FLR(FP), when a child is applying for 30 or 60 months' permission to stay. Use the online settlement application for the private life route when a UK-born child is applying straight for ILR, or when a child has completed 5 years with permission. All applications are made online on GOV.UK.

Using the wrong form can make an application invalid, which means it is rejected without a decision and without appeal rights. This page explains how to choose and complete the right one. For the full route, see our 7-year child route guide.

Table of Contents

Which form should my child use?

The form depends on whether the child is applying for permission to stay or for ILR.

• Born abroad, 7+ years' residence, first application: 30 or 60 months' permission, on FLR(FP) online
• Born abroad, 30-month grant ending: a further 30 months, on FLR(FP) online
• Born abroad, 5 continuous years with permission: ILR, on the online settlement application (private life)
• Born in the UK, 7+ years since birth: ILR, on the online settlement application (private life)
• Young adult 18 to 24, half-life test: 30 or 60 months' permission, on FLR(FP) online

If unsure whether to apply for permission or ILR, read UK-born child and child born abroad.

Can parents be included on the child's form?

Each person applies on their own form, but linked family applications can be submitted together. The forms ask about family members, so applications can be cross-referenced.

• The child's form is completed by a parent or guardian.
• Each parent submits their own form and pays their own fee.
• One set of legal representations can explain the whole family's case.

See can parents stay.

What does the online form ask?

The form collects personal details, immigration history, residence, family, and the basis of the claim. Answers must match the evidence exactly.

1. Personal details and identity document
2. Immigration history, including previous applications and refusals
3. Address history and time in the UK
4. Travel history and every absence abroad
5. Family members and parental responsibility
6. Basis of the application (private life, 7 years' residence)
7. Suitability questions on criminality, deception and debts
8. Fee payment or fee waiver reference

Inconsistent travel dates are one of the most common reasons for refusal. Check them against passports first.

How do we apply step by step?

Applications follow six steps from form to decision.

1. Check eligibility using our requirements page.
2. Request a fee waiver first if needed, and wait for the decision.
3. Complete the online form and pay the fee and health surcharge, or enter the waiver reference.
4. Book biometrics at a UKVCAS centre and attend.
5. Upload documents through the document upload service.
6. Wait for the decision, which is issued as an eVisa if granted.

What makes an application valid?

A valid application uses the specified form, pays the fee or has an approved fee waiver, provides proof of identity and enrols biometrics. The child must be in the UK on the date of application.

• An invalid application is rejected, not refused.
• There is no appeal against rejection.
• If permission ran out in the meantime, section 3C leave may not protect the family.

From 8 October 2026, HC 584 means a fee waiver request only protects the application date for the route it was requested for. See 7 year child rule changes 2026.

What happens at the biometrics appointment?

The child's photograph is taken and, for children aged 5 and over, fingerprints too. A parent or guardian must attend with a child under 16. Bring the appointment confirmation and the child's identity document.

How do we upload supporting documents?

Documents are scanned and uploaded online, either before or after the biometrics appointment. Name each file clearly and upload in a logical order, ideally matching the index in your legal representations. Use our documents checklist.

Can we change the form after submitting?

You can vary an application before a decision, but it carries risks. A variation may need a new form and fee. From 8 October 2026, a variation no longer resets the deadline to enrol biometrics. Take advice before varying.

Are paper forms still used?

Almost all in-country private life applications are made online. Paper forms are only used in limited cases set out on GOV.UK. Status is now issued digitally as an eVisa rather than a physical card.

How much does the form cost?

FLR(FP) costs £1,407 per person plus the health surcharge. The ILR application costs £3,226 per person. See application fees.

Need help completing the 7-year child route application form?

Completing the correct application form and providing accurate information are important when applying under the 7-year child route. Errors, missing details or insufficient supporting evidence may lead to delays or complications with your child's application.

Speak to Moeen & Co. Solicitors for expert immigration advice. Call us today on 0203 959 7755 to discuss your child's circumstances and get help with the application process.

Frequently asked questions