Human Rights & Compassionate Routes

Guidance on the UK’s human rights and compassionate immigration routes — the Article 8 family and private life provisions, the 10-year settlement path, and discretionary leave for exceptional or distressing circumstances. These guides cover who qualifies and how to evidence a claim outside the standard rules.

UK Human Rights & Compassionate Routes

When someone does not meet the standard Immigration Rules, UK law still protects family and private life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. These routes cover parents of British children, long-residence and private life claims, bereaved partners, victims of domestic abuse, and cases with exceptional circumstances. Our guides explain eligibility and the evidence each claim needs. Browse the human rights guides below.