The Secretary of State issues code of practice that ensure that, in exercising functions in the United Kingdom, the Border and Immigration Agency takes appropriate steps so that children - while in the United Kingdom - are safe from harm any harm.

Welfare of Children

The Secretary of State must ensure that

1. The functions enumerated in for the Secretary of State to discharged properly having regard to the safeguard and promote the welfare of children who are in the United Kingdom; and
2. Any services provided by any other person pursuant to arrangements which are made by the Secretary of State relating functions enumerated in subsection (2) are provided having regard to that need.

“Children” means persons who are under the age of 18

“Customs function”, “designated customs official” and “general customs function” have the meanings given by Part 1.

When making an application, it is very difficult to convince the Secretary of State that the best interest of children is in the United Kingdom. This depends on the time the child has spent in the UK, the immigration status of the parents, and the private or family life the child has in the United Kingdom.

The evidence to meet the requirements to prove the Best Interest of the Children is crucial to a successful application. Please get in touch with our expert team to see how we can help you.