Mahad (previously referred to as AM) (Ethiopia) v Entry Clearance Officer

This case raised the issue of whether the Immigration Rules permit persons who want to come to the UK in order to live with their spouses or other relatives here to rely for their maintenance on financial support provided by third parties, such as friends or relatives other than the person(s) they seek to join.  The Supreme Court laid to rest a long-standing debate about this issue, holding that on a proper construction of the Immigration Rules reliance on third party support is permissible. A further issue as to whether this was required by Article 8 ECHR was left open.

Lord Pannick QC and Michael Fordham QC of Blackstone Chambers represented a number of the Appellants.  Monica Carss-Frisk QC of Blackstone Chambers represented the Secretary of State.