Applicants whose relationship with their sponsor has broken down after entering the UK as their spouse/partner, as a result of domestic violence committed against them, would be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK.

To be eligible to apply under this exception, you would have to already have leave to enter or remain as the spouse of your sponsor (a British citizen or person settled in the UK).

You need not wait until your current leave expires, to apply. You may apply as soon as the situation demands it.

Domestic violence includes any/all of the following:

• Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour
• Violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality
• This can include, but is not limited to, the following types of abuse:
  • psychological
  • physical
  • sexual
  • financial
  • emotional

Domestic violence is not limited to physical or mental abuse from your sponsor alone! Domestic violence suffered, may be at the hands of the sponsor’s family (e.g. parents, step-family etc.)

*Note: You would not be required to meet the English language requirement or the Life in the UK test under this category of applications.

There is also a fee-waiver option for an application under this category. You could apply for Destitution Domestic Violence (DDV) Concession and provide evidence that you would be unable to meet your basic living costs if you are required to pay the application fees.