Adult Dependent Relative Applications: Supporting Parents with Complex Medical Needs
22.08.2025
Co-author: Michael Carter.
The Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) visa allows parents, grandparents and other close relatives to join their family members in the UK if they are unable to look after themselves without long-term personal care. These applications are often very challenging, particularly when they involve serious health issues and emotional needs.
A Real Case Example
In one of our recent cases, a parent applied to join her British daughter in the UK under the ADR route. After the application was refused by the Home Office, the matter proceeded to an appeal before the First-tier Tribunal.
Her parent has a complex medical history, including a diagnosis of lung cancer and the side effects of chemotherapy, which in turn have affected the kidneys, heart and overall wellbeing. On top of this, the parent also struggled with depression and emotional needs, making daily life extremely difficult.
Concerns About Medical Care Abroad
The Tribunal considered whether treatment could reasonably be provided in the country of origin. The sponsor explained that while some treatment is technically available there, she had serious concerns:
- A lack of medication and resources in the local healthcare
- A history of misdiagnosis, which caused serious
Although doctors in the country of origin can provide some treatment, the sponsor emphasised that she would have much more trust in UK doctors to deliver reliable and compassionate care.
The Challenges in Evidence
One of the biggest challenges in ADR applications and appeals is evidence. The sponsor explained that she does not have regular contact with doctors in the country of origin, and while she sought advice from UK doctors at the start of the illness, there was no ongoing follow-up because the parent was not in the UK.
This highlights how difficult it can be to prove differences in healthcare standards between countries, even when the concerns are genuine and serious.
What This Means for ADR Applications
The ADR route requires very strong evidence to show that the care needed cannot reasonably be provided in the applicant’s home country. This includes not only medical records, but also supporting documents about the quality, reliability and accessibility of treatment abroad.
This appeal demonstrates how complex these cases can be, especially where:
- Treatment exists abroad, but is not trusted or
- Mental health and emotional needs make family support in the UK
Our Support
This case was managed by two of our brilliant colleagues, Oksana Demyanchuk and Michael Carter, who worked tirelessly to prepare the strongest possible case for the family and to present it at the Tribunal.
If you or a loved one are considering an Adult Dependent Relative application, or if you need to appeal a refusal, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today for expert advice and caring support every step of the way.
