Bereaved Partner Visa
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What is the Bereaved Partner Visa?
The Bereaved Partner UK Visa is a compassionate immigration route designed for individuals who were living in the UK with a family visa, partner visa, spouse visa, or as a civil partner or unmarried partner, but whose partner has died. This visa allows the surviving partner to remain in the UK and apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), even if they no longer meet the original requirements of the partner visa route.
According to the UK immigration rules, applicants who qualify under the bereaved partner visa route do not need to leave the country or switch to another category. Instead, they may possible to apply directly for settlement as a bereaved partner.
This route is covered under Appendix Bereaved Partner of the Immigration Rules, and it applies whether the surviving partner was married, in a civil partnership, or an unmarried partner who had been granted permission as a partner.
Who is the Bereaved Partner Visa For?
You may be eligible to remain as a bereaved partner if:
The bereaved partner can be someone whose partner was a British citizen, a person with indefinite leave to remain, or someone with refugee status or humanitarian protection.
In some circumstances, even those on a fiancée or proposed civil partner visa may be able to apply, though different rules and regulations apply.
What is the Application Process Like?
The bereaved partner visa application is a settlement application, and you must apply for indefinite leave to remain through the Home Office.
Step-by-step ILR Application as a Bereaved Partner
Check eligibility
Ensure you meet the criteria outlined in Appendix Bereaved Partner, including proof that your partner has passed away while you were still on a valid visa.Prepare documentation
Gather documents showing your immigration status at the time, evidence of your genuine relationship, and proof of your partner's death and UK status.Submit your ILR application
Complete the bereaved partner ILR application using the online portal for application for indefinite leave under the bereaved partner route.Attend a biometric appointment
Provide your fingerprints and photograph.Pay the application fee
There is a standard fee for settlement as a bereaved partner.Wait for a decision
ILR processing typically takes up to 6 months, though times vary.
If your application is approved, you will be granted indefinite leave to remain, allowing you to stay in the UK permanently.
What Are the Requirements?
The bereaved partner visa requirements are specific and must be met in full. Your ability to settle in the UK as a bereaved partner depends on your immigration status and relationship at the time of your partner’s death.
1. Relationship Requirement
2. Immigration Status
3. ILR Eligibility
Note: If you have a dependent child of a bereaved partner, they may also be eligible to apply alongside you for ILR.
Key Benefits of the Bereaved Partner Visa
The bereaved partner visa is one of the most compassionate routes in the UK immigration system, providing support and protection to those who have lost their partner.
Key benefits of the visa holders include:
This route acknowledges the impact of loss and supports those who would otherwise be forced to leave the UK, despite having built a life here.
Why Choose Bekenbey?
At Bekenbey, we specialize in complex family immigration cases, including the bereaved partner visa route. Our dedicated immigration lawyers provide:
Personal support through the ILR application process
Help preparing a strong bereaved partner visa application
Guidance for applying from outside the UK, if relevant
Legal representation in case of refusals or delays
Step-by-step help with partner visa application with one or more dependants
Advice on applying under Appendix Bereaved Partner
Whether you’re navigating grief, processing paperwork, or unsure about the requirements, we’re here to help you remain in the UK securely.
Apply for a Bereaved Partner Visa Today with Bekenbey
If your partner has died and you are currently in the UK on a partner visa, you may be eligible to apply for settlement as a bereaved partner.
You need to apply as soon as possible after your partner passes away, especially if your current visa expires. The Home Office requires evidence that:
You were granted permission as a partner
Your relationship was genuine and ongoing
You lived together and shared a life before your partner's death
If you’re unsure whether you meet the bereaved partner visa requirements, or if your partner and intended life in the UK were cut short unexpectedly, we can help you submit a compassionate and complete application.
At Bekenbey, we will:
Assist with your bereaved partner settlement visa application
Help you gather documents to support your case
Advise you on dependent child of a bereaved applications
Submit your ILR application under the correct immigration rules
Needed Documents
We’ve listed all the key documents required for your visa application to make your process as smooth as possible. Here are some common documents you may need to provide:
This documentation helps ensure your application is processed smoothly and your right to remain in the UK is protected.
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Questions, Answered
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