What Are These Visas?
These immigration routes, the Bereaved Partner Visa and the Domestic Abuse Visa, provide protection and stability for individuals whose relationship has ended under difficult circumstances, whether that be the death of a partner, or as a result of domestic abuse.
Both routes are designed to ensure individuals in vulnerable situations are not forced to leave the UK.
A Bereaved Partner Visa allows individuals to remain in the UK permanently following the death of their partner. Dependent children can also apply under this visa.
When applying for a visa under this route, you must be able to show that your partner has died, and that you were in a genuine and subsisting relationship with that partner before their death.
This visa allows you to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) independently of your abusive partner. Domestic abuse can be emotional, psychological, physical, sexual or financial. It includes threatening or controlling behaviour to try to harm, isolate or frighten someone.
In your application you would be required to explain how your relationship has broken down as a result of domestic abuse (usually in the form of a written statement), and it is also advisable to produce evidence of the abuse from support organisations, doctors and police, if possible.
Dependent children can also make applications under this route.
Who Can Apply For These Visas?
Bereaved Partner Visa:
This visa is for individuals whose partner has passed away and who, at the time of their death, their partner was:
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A British citizen
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An individual who had indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK
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An EEA national who had pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
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A member of the UK Armed Forces
Dependent children can also apply under a Bereaved Partner Visa.
Domestic Abuse Settlement Route Visa:
This visa is for individuals who have experienced domestic abuse and were in a relationship with one of the following:
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A British citizen
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A person with indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK
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An EEA national with pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
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A recognised refugee
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A member of the UK Armed Forces
Dependent children can also apply under a Domestic Abuse Settlement Route Visa
How Drummond Miller Can Support Your Application
With decades of experience in personal and family immigration, our immigration solicitors bring not only legal expertise but also a compassionate approach to each application. Our service includes:
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Initial Consultation: A comprehensive assessment to confirm eligibility and outline the application strategy.
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Guidance on Supporting Documents: Step-by-step support in gathering and preparing all necessary documentary evidence.
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Application Preparation and Submission: A full-service approach to drafting and submitting your application form to the Home Office, ensuring precision, timeliness and the best chance of success.
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Ongoing Communication and Updates: Providing regular updates to keep you informed of your application’s progress and addressing any queries you may have.
Our commitment is to ensure that the visa application process is as stress-free as possible, guiding you through each step with care and professionalism.
Why Choose Drummond Miller for Your Visa Application?
At Drummond Miller, we know that as a widow, or a victim of domestic abuse, securing a visa is more than just a legal process—it’s about maintaining your life in the UK independently. Our dedicated team of immigration lawyers combine in-depth legal expertise with a personal approach, delivering the support, legal advice and reassurance you need throughout your visa process.
Our immigration team is recognised as Band 1 by Chambers & Partners and Top Tier by the Legal 500. David Brown is recognised in the Legal 500, in the Hall of Fame as being at the pinnacle of the profession. Janey Armstrong and Humphrey Ndubuisi are recognised as Next Generation Partners in the Legal 500 and Band 2 in Chambers & Partners.
As a result, here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
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Personalised service: We don’t do one-size-fits-all. Your circumstances are unique, and so is your case. Our team takes the time to understand your specific situation, tailoring our legal advice and approach to suit your needs.
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Attention to detail: Our solicitors ensure your application is thorough, clear, and submitted on time.
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Comprehensive support: We guide you through every stage of the process, from gathering the right documents, to submitting your visa application, and beyond.
We're here, to get you there. For us, this means working to achieve a successful outcome, guided by a team who genuinely cares.
Experienced Immigration Lawyers
Whether you're just beginning your visa journey, or you have hit a bump in the road with your application, our experienced immigration team is here to help. With Drummond Miller by your side, you can rest easy knowing that your visa application is in expert hands.
It’s your future together—let us help you make it a reality.
- Call us on 0131 226 5151