Visas when you separate or divorce

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Apply to stay in the UK

If your visa is based on a relationship that’s ended you must apply if you want to stay in the UK.

Apply as soon as possible after the relationship breaks down. Do not wait until your current visa expires.

How to apply to stay in the UK

You may be able to apply for a new visa, for example:

• a work visa
• as a parent of a child who’s British, settled in the UK or has lived in the UK for at least 7 years
• based on your private life in the UK, for example you’ve lived in the UK for a long time
• another type of visa

Or you may be able to apply to settle in the UK (known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’). Check if you can settle in the UK:

• if your relationship has broken down because of domestic violence or abuse
• another way - for example you’ve lived in the UK for 10 years (long residence)

Getting indefinite leave to remain means you can live, work, study or claim benefits in the UK without time restrictions. You can use it to become a British citizen, if you’re eligible.

You can get advice about staying in the UK on the Citizens Advice website.

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