UNMARRIED PARTNERS It has been possible since 1997 for unmarried partners both in a heterosexual and same sex relationship to gain entry to the UK. These sort of applications tend to be more difficult than those based on marriage as you need to show that you have been together for two years and that it is a permanent relationship. The requirements since April 2003 are as follows: you have to show that any previous relationship whether in marriage or as an unmarried couple has ended; you should have been living together for at least two years in a relationship similar to marriage. You will need to provide documentary evidence confirming that you have been living together for this time; if you have been together for less than four years you are granted a visa for a probationary period of two years. If you are still living together at the end of two years in the UK permanent residence (properly known as indefinite leave to remain) will usually be granted; if you have been together for four years or more outside the UK you will be granted indefinite leave to remain (permanent residence) in the UK without having to live in the UK for two years. Again, you will need to provide documentary evidence proving this; you must intend to live together permanently with your partner; you must possess sufficient funds to pay you and your partner's living expenses and those of any dependants without claiming public funds. Public funds cover various benefits paid by the Government if you are currently looking for work, if you are on a low income and if you are in various other situations; accommodation for the unmarried partners, and any dependants, must be suitable and available; it is a requirement that the overseas unmarried partner has to be 16 years old or over, and the sponsor in the UK has to be at least 18 years old; children of the unmarried partners who are under 18 years old are allowed entry to the UK as dependants, and can make their application at the same time as the main applicant; after a total period of five years in the UK if you meet the residence requirements you may then apply for UK Citizenship.
Public Funds
To be eligible for a UK unmarried partners visa you must be able to support and accommodate yourself without recourse to public funds. What we can do for you As British lawyers, we will do our best and even go that extra mile for you. We can help you with the necessary paperwork that will be needed to ensure that your application meets the Immigration requirements.
Please expect us to do the following for you, when you instruct us to represent you or a member of your family: Full and professional assessment of your case Advice on whether you should consider a different immigration programme or category Strong and weak points of your application Advice on correct list of documents Advice on evidence required Instructing your sponsor, relative, employer or college (if required) Final check of your documents before submission to the Home Office/British Diplomatic Post Creating a professionally looking paginated immigration bundle Drafting representations and cover letters to the Home Office/British Diplomatic Post Working with interpreters (if required) Submission your application to the Home Office/British Diplomatic Post Correspondence with the Home Office/British Diplomatic Post Keeping you updated by post, E-mail or phone on the progress of your application If something goes wrong : requesting a review or reconsideration Any further in-country/out-of-country immigration assistance
The above list is not exhaustive as we treat every client's case individually. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a professional immigration advice. |
