The UK Government’s decision to pause Family Reunion Applications and why it's a problem
September 10, 2025
The UK government has decided to temporarily suspend all new family reunion applications, in advance of making changes to the application process in Spring 2026.
Many of the guests supported by Sufra are in the process of a family reunion application. The application allows for spouses and children to be with each other again after experiencing war, famine, unjust prosecution and traumatic migration.
Guests who have been working on their asylum claim for years in hopes that they might be able to see their family again, will now be left hopeless and alone in navigating their new life in the UK.
The newly suggested requirements for family reunion mean that someone must earn at least £29,000 a year and provide suitable accomodation, while their family member may need to demonstrate a basic level of English.
Asylum seekers are applying to councils for help to stop them falling into homelessness - not because they have been reunited with their families, but because they are asked to pay extortionate rent prices after living off £10 a week and expected to have a full salary after not being allowed to work throughout the duration of their claim.
To support the guests who are currently working on Family Reunion Applications, consider making a donation to our Emergency Aid Fund:
For more detailed information about changes to family reunion applications, read Right to Remain's blog on the subject:
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