Losing a loved one is an emotionally devastating experience, and for those living in the UK on a partner visa, this loss can be compounded by uncertainty about their immigration status.
The UK government, recognises the unique challenges faced by bereaved partners, and offers a compassionate route to settlement through the “leave to remain as a bereaved partner” provision.
This route allows individuals who have lost their partner to apply for indefinite leave to remain, regardless of how long they’ve been in the country.
Eligibility – who can apply for leave to remain?
You may be eligible to apply if:
- Your partner has died
- Your most recent leave to remain was as a partner of a British citizen, settled person, or EU national with pre-settled status
- You were in a genuine and subsisting relationship with your partner at the time of their death
Application process for bereaved partner
- You can apply any time after your partner’s death – you don’t have to wait for your current visa to expire
- You must be in the UK when you apply
- Submit an online application form and pay the fee of £2,885 unless you have been granted a fee waiver.
- Provide biometric information
- Submit supporting document
Documents
The specific documents needed to apply will depend your circumstances.
Important Considerations
- There is no English language or life in the UK test requirement for the main applicant
- You can apply even if your current leave has expired
- If approved, you’ll be granted indefinite leave to remain (settlement).
- You can include dependent children in your application
Reach out for legal advice
It is always advisable to seek expert legal advice to navigate the requirements of a bereaved partner visa to ensure a successful outcome. If you require any help or assistance with the application or have any questions surrounding it, then our team of Immigration Solicitors at Kidd Rapinet in Canary Wharf would be pleased to help you. You can contact us on telephone 0207 925 0303 or use the form provided.
These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.