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<p>We recognise that families may be separated because of the nature of conflict and
persecution and the speed and manner in which those seeking asylum often flee their
country of origin. Our refugee family reunion policy allows immediate family members
of a person in the UK with refugee leave or humanitarian protection status - that
is a spouse or partner and children under the age of 18, who formed part of the family
unit before the sponsor fled their country of origin - to reunite with them in the
UK.</p><p>The Syrian Vulnerable Persons Relocation (VPR) scheme was launched in January
2014 and is the first resettlement programme run by the UK to target support for refugees
specifically on the basis of their vulnerability. On 7 September 2015, the Prime Minister
announced a significant extension of the scheme, in recognition of the worsening crisis.
We intend to resettle 20,000 refugees from Syria’s neighbouring countries over the
lifetime of this Parliament.</p><p>The scheme is helping those in the greatest need
who cannot be supported effectively in the region by giving them protection and support
in the UK. The current criteria for acceptance under the scheme will be expanded to
ensure more of those in the greatest need are resettled, together with their family
members, in the UK. Where possible, the Government working with UNHCR, aims to resettle
all close family members and dependents together.</p><p>Those resettled under the
Syrian VPR scheme are eligible to act as sponsors under the family reunion provisions.
This means that if their immediate family members are still abroad, and they meet
the requirements of the Immigration Rules, they will be issued with a visa and the
family will be able to reunite in the UK. Any family members who are already in the
UK are also eligible to apply under the family reunion provisions.</p>
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