31 Mar Establishing Strong Ties to the UK for a Returning Resident Visa
For individuals who previously held settled status in the UK but have spent a prolonged period outside the country, the Returning Resident Visa provides a means to regain their right to live in the UK. A key requirement for this application is proving strong ties to the UK. This article outlines what constitutes strong ties, the types of evidence that can support an application, and how to build a compelling case for approval.
Understanding the requirement for strong ties
Appendix Returning Residence of the immigration rules states:
RR 6.1. The decision-maker must be satisfied that the applicant has maintained strong ties to the UK during their absence.
To be eligible for a Returning Resident Visa, applicants must demonstrate that they have actively maintained significant connections to the UK while living abroad. Although the Home Office does not provide a rigid definition of “strong ties,” it assesses applications on a case-by-case basis. Commonly accepted forms of ties include family connections, property ownership, business interests, and social or cultural affiliations.
- Family ties: A key factor
Family connections are often the most compelling evidence of strong ties to the UK. If you have close family members residing in the UK, such as a spouse, children, parents, or siblings, this can significantly strengthen your application. The Home Office evaluates the closeness of these relationships and the extent to which they have been actively maintained during your time abroad.
Simply having relatives in the UK is not enough—you must demonstrate continued engagement and interaction with them while living overseas.
- Property and Business
Owning property or maintaining business interests in the UK can further establish strong ties. These tangible investments indicate a commitment to the country and can support your application.
Property ties
Examples include:
Ownership of residential or commercial property
Long-term rental agreements
Mortgage or loan agreements associated with a property
Utility bills or tax records proving residence
Business ties
Examples include:
Ownership or part-ownership of a business
Holding a directorship or executive position in a company
Business registration documents
Financial investments or company shares
Tax filings related to business operations
Additionally, if you work remotely for a UK-based company or were assigned to work abroad by a UK employer, these factors can further demonstrate your strong ties.
However, property and business ties alone may not be sufficient. They are most effective when combined with other supporting evidence, such as family relationships or social integration.
- Length of original residence in the UK
The duration of your previous stay in the UK can significantly impact the strength of your application. The longer you lived in the UK before your absence, the more likely you are to have established deep connections. For instance, individuals who spent decades in the UK before leaving may have stronger ties than those who lived there for only a few years.
- Reasons for time spent abroad
The Home Office will also assess why you left the UK and why you now wish to return. It is crucial to provide a clear and well-documented explanation for your extended absence. Some valid reasons include:
Caring for family – If you had to leave the UK to take care of an ill or elderly relative.
Health reasons – If you required medical treatment that was unavailable in the UK.
Employment or Education – If you temporarily relocated for work or academic purposes.
Providing supporting documents, such as medical records, employment contracts, or academic transcripts, can help substantiate these claims.
Conclusion
Proving strong ties to the UK is a fundamental requirement for a Returning Resident visa. A successful application often relies on a combination of factors, including family relationships, property or business ownership, previous residence duration, and legitimate reasons for time spent abroad, so that the Home Office will be convinced that the applicant has a genuine intention to settle in the UK in the future. By compiling comprehensive and relevant evidence, applicants can strengthen their case and improve their chances of re-establishing their right to live in the UK.
Contact Our Immigration Team
For expert advice regarding any aspect of the UK visa application, please contact our immigration team on 0203 384 3075
