If you are in the UK on a spouse or partner visa and your relationship has broken down as a result of domestic violence or abuse, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the Domestic Violence concession. This allows you to remain in the UK independently of your sponsor.

Who Is This Route For?

This route is specifically for people who came to the UK as a partner or spouse of a British citizen or person settled in the UK, and whose relationship has ended due to domestic abuse. You do not need to have completed the standard five-year qualifying period for settlement.

What Evidence Is Required?

The Home Office requires evidence of both the abusive relationship and the fact that the abuse caused the breakdown of the relationship. Evidence does not need to be from a single source — a combination of documents from different categories is acceptable and often expected.

Accepted Evidence of Domestic Abuse

• A letter or report from a domestic violence support organisation or refuge
• A police report, caution, conviction, or restraining order
• Medical evidence from a doctor, nurse, or midwife describing injuries consistent with abuse
• A letter from a social services department confirming involvement
• Legal correspondence such as non-molestation orders or injunctions
• Witness statements from a professional who has knowledge of the abuse

Evidence of the Relationship

• Marriage certificate or evidence of civil partnership
• Evidence of cohabitation such as joint bank statements or utility bills
• Previous visa documentation confirming your status as a partner

Financial Support During the Application

If you have no recourse to public funds on your current visa, you may be able to apply for emergency support through the Destitution Domestic Violence (DDV) Concession. This provides temporary access to public funds while your ILR application is considered. Our team can advise you on whether you qualify.

How Wright Justice Solicitors Can Help

Applying for ILR under these circumstances can be emotionally and practically challenging. Our compassionate and experienced immigration team can assist you in gathering the right evidence, preparing your application, and ensuring it is submitted correctly. We handle all cases with the utmost sensitivity and confidentiality.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for a confidential consultation. We are here to help.