The UK EEA Family Permit allows family members of European Economic Area (EEA) nationals to live and join their loved ones in the United Kingdom. For Pakistani citizens with a family member who is an EEA national or a family member of a person with settled or pre-settled status in the UK, applying for the EEA Family Permit can be an essential step in reuniting with family. This guide outlines everything you need to know to apply for the UK EEA Family Permit from Pakistan.

What is the UK EEA Family Permit?
The UK EEA Family Permit is a special visa that allows non-EEA family members of EU nationals to join them in the UK. It is particularly useful for individuals who want to move to the UK to live, work, or study. However, with the end of free movement following Brexit, the rules around the EEA Family Permit have changed, but it still remains an important pathway for many individuals.

Eligibility Criteria for the EEA Family Permit
To apply for the EEA Family Permit from Pakistan, you must meet certain eligibility criteria:

• Family Relationship: You must be a family member (spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, child, or dependent relative) of an EEA national who is living in the UK or planning to do so.
• EEA National Status: The EEA national sponsor must be living in the UK, or planning to come to the UK. They must either have settled status (indefinite leave to remain) or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
• Proving the Relationship: You’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship with the EEA national (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate, evidence of cohabitation, etc.).

Required Documents
When applying for the UK EEA Family Permit, you’ll need to submit several documents to prove your eligibility:

1. Passport or Travel Document: A valid passport for yourself and any dependents.
2. Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, birth certificate, or evidence of your long-term relationship with your EEA family member (e.g., joint bank accounts, utility bills, etc.).
3. EEA National’s Documents: Proof of your family member’s status in the UK, such as their passport, residence card, or evidence of settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
4. Financial Support Evidence: Documents that show your family member can support you financially while you live in the UK, such as bank statements, employment contracts, or a letter from an employer.
5. Accommodation Proof: Documents that show you will have a place to live in the UK, such as a tenancy agreement or letter from the EEA national sponsor.

How to Apply for the UK EEA Family Permit from Pakistan

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure that both you and your family member meet the eligibility criteria and that you have all the required documents in place.
2. Complete the Application Form: The application for the EEA Family Permit is completed online through the UK government’s official website. You’ll need to create an account, fill out your personal information, and provide details about your EEA family member.
3. Submit Supporting Documents: After completing the application, you will need to submit the necessary documents to prove your relationship and eligibility.
4. Pay the Application Fee: The application for an EEA Family Permit is free, so you will not be required to pay any application fees. However, you may need to pay for biometric information (fingerprints and photos) depending on your specific situation.
5. Attend a Biometric Appointment: Once your application is submitted, you may need to attend a biometric appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
6. Wait for a Decision: The processing time for the EEA Family Permit can take several weeks. You will be notified of the decision once it has been made.

After Approval:
Once approved, you will receive the EEA Family Permit, which allows you to travel to the UK and join your family member. The permit is typically valid for six months, and it is a good idea to apply for further immigration status (such as a family visa) once you are in the UK.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Ensure all your documents are accurate and up to date.
• Provide clear evidence of your relationship, including any supporting letters or joint documents.
• Be honest and thorough in your application to avoid delays or rejection.
• Consider seeking advice from an immigration lawyer or consultant if you have a complex situation.

Conclusion
Applying for the UK EEA Family Permit from Pakistan is an important step for family members who wish to reunite with their loved ones in the UK. By meeting the eligibility criteria and preparing the necessary documents, you can navigate the application process smoothly. Ensure you submit your application on time and provide all the required evidence to avoid unnecessary delays. The UK EEA Family Permit is an excellent opportunity for Pakistani citizens to live with their EEA family members in the UK.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get the EEA Family Permit?
   Processing times can vary but typically take around 8-12 weeks.
2. Can I work in the UK with an EEA Family Permit?
   Yes, once granted, the EEA Family Permit allows you to work in the UK.
3. Can my children apply for the EEA Family Permit?
   Yes, if they are under 21 or financially dependent on you, they can apply as part of your family permit application.
4. What happens after the EEA Family Permit expires?
   You can apply for a further visa or residency once you are in the UK.