ILR as a Bereaved Partner
If you are currently in the UK as the partner of a British citizen or settled person, and your partner has sadly passed away, you may find yourself in a difficult situation regarding your immigration status. However, you may be eligible for a specific visa that allows you to remain in the UK based on the death of your partner. This visa is designed to provide support and security for individuals who have been living with their partner in the UK and are now left without them.
Eligibility for the Visa
To be eligible for this visa, you must meet the following criteria:
•Your partner must have been present and settled in the UK at the time of their death. This means that they must have had Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship when they passed away.
•You must have been living in the UK as a partner of your deceased partner, meaning that you were in a genuine and subsisting relationship at the time of their death.
The Purpose of the Visa
The main purpose of this visa is to allow you to remain in the UK legally after the death of your partner, especially if you have been living together in the UK. It gives you the chance to stabilise your life in the UK and ensure that you are not left in an uncertain immigration situation due to the loss of your partner.
What the Application Requires
The application for this visa requires you to demonstrate your relationship with your partner, which will usually involve submitting documentation such as:
•Proof of your relationship with the deceased (e.g., marriage or civil partnership certificate, proof of cohabitation, joint bank accounts, etc.).
•Evidence that your partner was settled in the UK at the time of their death, such as their passport, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) documentation, or British citizenship certificate.
•Details about your current circumstances, such as living arrangements and financial support, to show that you will be able to remain in the UK without reliance on public funds.
Additionally, you will need to prove that you meet other standard requirements for immigration applications, such as health and character requirements.
What Happens After You Apply
Once you submit your application, the Home Office will carefully review your case. If your application is successful, you will be granted permission to remain in the UK. This can provide a sense of security and allow you to continue your life in the UK, particularly if you have established strong ties to the country and your partner was your primary support.
In some cases, you may also be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after a period of time, depending on your circumstances and the length of your relationship with your late partner. This will depend on how long you have lived together in the UK and whether you meet the requirements for ILR.
Why Legal Support is Essential
We understand that dealing with immigration issues after the loss of a loved one is incredibly stressful. The application process can be complex, and having the right support can make all the difference. Our experienced team of immigration lawyers can guide you through every step of the process, from gathering the necessary documents to submitting the application. We will ensure that your case is presented clearly and effectively to maximise your chances of success.
In addition to preparing your application, we will provide advice on the best course of action for your specific circumstances. Whether you need help understanding your rights, determining eligibility, or handling the paperwork, we are here to provide the support and expertise you need during this challenging time.
Why You Should Contact Us
If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to take swift action to ensure that you remain legally in the UK. We can assist with all aspects of your application, providing you with peace of mind and support through a difficult period. Don’t face this alone—let our team of experts help you navigate the immigration process and secure your right to remain in the UK.
Contact us today for a detailed consultation to discuss your eligibility and how we can help you stay in the UK following the loss of your partner. We are here to support you and provide you with the legal guidance you need.