Overview
A clear path through Private Life in the UK.
The Private Life route recognises long residence and integration in the UK. It is a 10-year route to settlement (now shortened in some cases to 5 years), grounded in Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
We act for adults with 20 years' residence, children born or long-resident here, and young adults who have spent most of their life in the UK.
Who it's for
Is this the right route for you?
- Long-residence applicants (20+ years)
- Young adults aged 18–24 with half their life in the UK
- Children with 7+ years' UK residence
Eligibility
Are you eligible?
- Continuous residence in the UK
- Significant private life established
- Compelling personal circumstances
Documents
What you'll need to prepare.
- Evidence of UK residence covering the qualifying period
- Educational, employment, medical and community ties
- Family relationships in the UK
Process
How we work, step by step.
- 1
Initial consultation
We assess your situation, eligibility and the strongest route forward.
- 2
Document strategy
We prepare a tailored evidence bundle and resolve weak points before submission.
- 3
Application & submission
Your case is filed precisely, with every requirement triple-checked.
- 4
Decision & next steps
We monitor progress, respond to requests, and guide you through the outcome.
Fees & timelines
Transparent, fixed-fee pricing.
Home Office fee from £1,321 plus IHS. Our professional fees from £1,750.
Typical Home Office processing: ~12 months.
Watch-outs
Common pitfalls to avoid.
- Evidence gaps are the most common cause of refusal
Why Tide
A safer pair of hands for your application.
We are a boutique UK immigration practice. Every Private Life in the UK case is led by a senior specialist — never delegated to a junior caseworker. We are candid about your prospects, strategic about your evidence, and quietly relentless on your behalf.