When navigating the complex landscape of UK immigration law, many individuals find themselves needing to apply to remain in the country based on their private life. These applications, made under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, can be challenging without expert legal guidance. This is where private life applications solicitors play a crucial role — offering professional support to increase the chances of a successful outcome.
So, what exactly is a private life application?
In simple terms, it’s an application to the Home Office asking to stay in the UK because you’ve built a life here. This falls under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which talks about your right to a private and family life.
You might qualify if:
You’ve been living in the UK for 20 years or more.
You’re under 18 and have been here for at least 7 years.
You’re between 18 and 25 and have spent at least half your life in the UK.
Or, being removed from the UK would lead to unjustifiably harsh consequences for you.
These are just general guidelines, and every case is a little different — which is why having someone who knows the law inside out is so important.
Why working with a solicitor really matters
I can't stress this enough: private life applications are not the kind of thing you want to handle alone. There’s a lot of legal nuance, and it’s easy to miss something critical that could lead to a refusal.
Here’s what a good solicitor brings to the table:
1. Understanding your situation inside out
They’ll sit down with you (virtually or in person) and get to know your story. Not just the facts on paper, but who you are, what you’ve built in the UK, and why going back to your country of origin isn’t realistic or fair.
2. Building your case with real evidence
We’re talking bank statements, school records, medical documents, letters from community members — anything that shows your life is rooted here. Your solicitor will help you gather and organise everything properly, so nothing important slips through the cracks.
3. Writing strong legal arguments
Even if you’re eligible, you still need to convince the Home Office. A solicitor will draft persuasive legal representations that clearly explain why your application should be granted — all backed by case law and the right references to the Immigration Rules.
4. Avoiding simple mistakes
Believe it or not, lots of applications get refused over things like missing forms, outdated information, or the wrong type of evidence. Having a professional review and submit everything ensures your application is airtight.
5. Support if things don’t go to plan
If your application is refused, don’t panic — it’s not the end of the road. A solicitor can help you appeal the decision, guide you through the tribunal process, and fight your case with you every step of the way.
Choosing the right solicitor
Not all solicitors are the same, so it’s worth doing a bit of research. Look for someone who is SRA-registered, experienced in immigration and human rights law, and who takes the time to really understand your case. Read their reviews, ask about their past success with private life applications, and make sure you feel comfortable with how they communicate.
What to expect when you get started
Usually, it starts with a consultation. You’ll talk through your situation, your history in the UK, and what kind of application fits best. From there, your solicitor will help you prepare your FLR(FP) form, gather the right evidence, and submit everything to the Home Office. If your situation is especially complex — say you’ve had previous refusals or you’re facing removal — your solicitor may explore other legal avenues too.
Final Thoughts
At the heart of every private life application is a human story — your story. It’s about the life you’ve built, the relationships you’ve formed, and the sense of belonging you’ve found here in the UK. That deserves to be heard, and it deserves to be presented in the strongest possible way.
If you’re thinking about making a private life application — or you’re helping someone who is — we’re here for you.
At Farani Taylor Solicitors, we’ve supported countless clients through private life and human rights cases with compassion, precision, and real results. Whether you visit our City office, Ilford office, or Norbury office, you’ll find a team that truly listens and works tirelessly on your behalf.
This isn’t just legal work for us — it’s personal. And we’re ready to help you move forward with confidence.
