If you are a non-EEA national and are a family member of an EEA national who is exercising their right to free movement in the UK then you may need to apply for an EEA family permit before you can apply for a UK Residence Card.

The EEA family permit is a type of visa that allows non EEA family members of an EEA national to enter the UK for up to six months. This permit is required if you are a non-EEA family member of an EEA national who is not a British citizen and who is living in the UK or will be traveling to the UK with you.

Once you have entered the UK with an EEA family permit you may be able to apply for a UK Residence Card which is a biometric residence permit that confirms your right to live and work in the UK as a family member of an eea national. The UK Residence Card is usually valid for five years.

It is important to note that the requirements and application processes for these permits can change over time so you should always check the most up to date information on the UK government’s official immigration website or consult with a qualified immigration lawyer. For more information about UK residence card, you can visit our immigrationsolicitors4me website.

Where can I travel in Europe with a UK residence card?

With a UK Residence Card, also known as a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) that confirms your status as a family member of an EEA national, you may be able to travel to other European countries under certain conditions.

If you hold a valid UK Residence Card issued before 31 December 2020, you may be able to travel to other European countries using it as evidence of your right to free movement as the family member of an EEA national. However, this is subject to the specific rules and requirements of each country you plan to visit.

If you hold a valid UK Residence Card issued after 31 December 2020, you may only be able to use it to travel to other European countries if you are accompanying the EEA national family member or you are joining them in another EEA country.

It is important to note that rules and requirements for travel may vary depending on the country you plan to visit, and you should always check the most up-to-date information on the specific country's government website or consult with a qualified immigration lawyer. Additionally, it is important to note that travel restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic may also affect your ability to travel to other countries.

What is required for EEA family permit?

To apply for an EEA Family Permit, you will need to provide the following documents and meet certain requirements:

A valid passport or travel document.

Evidence of your relationship with the EEA national, such as a marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or birth certificate.

Evidence that the EEA national is exercising their right to free movement in the UK. This can include a valid passport or national identity card, evidence of employment or self-employment, or evidence of study.

Proof of your own identity and nationality.

Evidence of your intention to travel to the UK with the EEA national, such as travel bookings or itinerary.

Evidence of your financial means to support yourself during your stay in the UK.

Proof of your accommodation arrangements in the UK.

It is important to note that the specific requirements for an EEA Family Permit may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the country from which you are applying. You should always check the most up-to-date information on the UK government's official immigration website or consult with a qualified immigration lawyer.

What is a residence card of a EEA family member?

A Residence Card of a EEA family member is a biometric residence permit issued to non-EEA family members of European Economic Area (EEA) nationals who are exercising their right to free movement in the UK. The Residence Card confirms the holder's right to live and work in the UK as the family member of an EEA national.

The EEA family member must be either:

A citizen of an EEA country (including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland), or

A family member of an EEA national who is exercising their right to free movement in the UK, such as a spouse or civil partner, child, grandchild, or dependent parent.

The Residence Card is usually valid for five years and can be renewed as long as the holder continues to meet the eligibility requirements. The card includes biometric information such as fingerprints and a photograph of the holder.

It is important to note that the rules and requirements for obtaining and renewing a Residence Card of a EEA family member may vary depending on the individual's circumstances and the country from which they are applying. You should always check the most up-to-date information on the UK government's official immigration website or consult with a qualified immigration lawyer.

Do I Have to Apply for Eea Family Permit Prior to Residence Card?