The new UK immigration rule changes coming into effect on 11 November 2025 will significantly impact stateless individuals and their family members seeking reunion in the UK. Understanding these changes-and applying with the correct strategy-is essential for affected families and legal professionals.
Upcoming Changes for Stateless Family Members
From 11 November 2025 onward, family reunion applications involving stateless individuals will be governed exclusively by Appendix Statelessness, replacing the long-standing provisions under part 14 of the immigration rules. This transition follows extensive legal challenges and policy revisions over the past year. The rules directly affect how and when family members can join sponsors granted leave as stateless persons.
Key Deadlines and Application Windows
- Family members whose relationship with the sponsor was formed after the sponsor’s grant of stateless leave must submit their applications under part 14 on or before 10 November 2025.
- After this date, only those whose relationship existed before the sponsor’s first grant of statelessness leave can apply under Appendix Statelessness.
- All other cases involving relationships formed after statelessness leave must apply under Appendix FM, which carries additional eligibility requirements relating to language, maintenance, and accommodation.
Important Changes to Eligibility and Application Process
- No Language or Maintenance Requirement Until 10 November: Under part 14, applicants do not face English language or maintenance criteria. The only requirement is the genuine family relationship, regardless of when it was formed.
- New Restrictions from 11 November: Appendix Statelessness restricts family reunion rights to those relationships formed before the sponsor’s initial grant and introduces more rigorous requirements for others under Appendix FM.
- Transitional Provisions: Applications for family reunion by partners and children who previously held or currently hold permission under part 14 may still be made, provided the last grant was under part 14 rules before 31 January 2024. For others, the new rules apply.
Practical Guidance for Applicants
Kash Legal Services urges all potential applicants-and their legal representatives-to act promptly:
- Applications under part 14 must be submitted before 11 November 2025.
- Clearly specify part 14 as the route in both application forms and supporting representations to avoid automatic application of the new, stricter rules under Appendix Statelessness or Appendix FM.
- Applicants under part 14 should be aware that granted leave does not automatically match the sponsor’s. Each family member must complete their own five-year residence period before qualifying for settlement.
- From 11 November, sponsors who have settled or naturalised as British may only assist family reunion where the relationship existed prior to the initial statelessness leave—but granted leave will be in line with the sponsor.
Strategic Steps for Stateless Families
With a short window remaining, stateless persons and their families should seek professional advice without delay, preparing robust representations that reference part 14 where eligible. The reforms present new obstacles for family reunion, but timely action can secure rights that will otherwise be lost after 10 November 2025.
Kash Legal Services offers expert support for stateless family reunion applications, navigating transitional rules and ensuring compliant submissions. Contact our team now to discuss your individual circumstances and preserve your family’s rights under UK immigration law.