Essential Visitor Permits
An essential visitor permit is available for residents who rely on regular help from family, friends, or carers to continue living independently or for childcare.
- Cost: £10 per permit
- Issued to the resident, but used by visitors when providing support
Who Can Apply
This permit is typically for:
- Older residents needing some extra support to remain at home
- People with medical conditions or disabilities (with or without a Blue Badge)
- Parents who rely on family members for their childcare (children under 12) at their home whilst working
- Supporting round the clock care
How the Permit Works
- The permit is given to your visitor to display while they are at your home helping you
- It must be returned after each visit to the permit so it can be reused
- It should not be displayed permanently in a single vehicle.
All applications will require supporting evidence to demonstrate eligibility for the permit and ongoing eligibility at the time of renewal. You will need to upload two evidence proofs with your application. Proofs should be dated within the last 6 months. Ideally, we’re looking for:
Proof of Address
For example:
- Current year Council Tax bill
- Tenancy agreement
- Utility bill ( issued in last 6 months)
- Bank or benefit statement (showing name and address only)
Proof of Need
One of the following:
- Letter from a GP or hospital
- Copy of a recently dated prescription
- Copy or photo of a Blue Badge
For childcare use:
- Provide a document showing the child’s date of birth (e.g. passport or birth certificate of the youngest child if you have more than one
Important Information
- The permit cannot be used when children are taken to another address (e.g. a grandparent’s home)
- A permit is not needed for simply dropping off or picking up passengers
- You must include a supporting statement explaining:
- How the permit will help you
- How often it will be used
Applying on Someone’s Behalf
Family, friends, or support workers can apply for you, but:
- The application must be in the resident’s name
- All documents must relate to the resident
Getting Started
- Check if the resident already has a MiPermit account, log in and apply from their homepage
- If not, you can register as part of your applicationit.
- If you cannot apply online or are concerned about making payments online, there are other ways to apply. Please see our Frequently asked questions – Roads and transport for more details.
Reminder Notices will be sent by email or text message 30 days prior to expiry date to digital permit account holders. For those who without a MiPermit digital account your renewal letter will be sent by post. To ensure that users of this permit still meet our criteria, you will be required to provide two proofs and a supporting statement with each renewal.