Victim of Domestic Abuse Visa
United KingdomUnited Kingdom•Europe
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Victim of Domestic Abuse Visa

Residency Pathway PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed Remote Work

At a Glance

Processing Time

6 months

Estimated Cost

GBP £3,226

Stay Duration

Indefinite

Not renewable

Renewal

Not renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote work OK

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Living in United Kingdom

Cost of Living
2% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary£31,000
Quality of Life
174/200

Overview

This route allows settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the UK for partners of settled people whose relationship broke down permanently due to domestic abuse.

The UK Appendix Victim of Domestic Abuse route grants Indefinite Leave to Remain to migrants who held permission as a partner on a specified route and whose relationship broke down due to domestic abuse. It leads directly to permanent settlement, with no income or language requirement.

A temporary concession (MVDAC) provides immediate leave and access to public funds while the ILR application is processed — decisions typically take up to 6 months. The fee is £3,226, but a full fee waiver is available for those without sufficient funds. Dependent children can apply at the same time.

This visa is ideal for migrants in the UK on a partner visa whose relationship has permanently broken down due to domestic abuse and who need a safe, fast route to independent settlement.

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Stay & Extensions

Status typePermanent / indefinite

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must have had permission as a partner on a specified route.

Relationship broke down due to domestic abuse.

Meet suitability requirements.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Evidence of domestic abuse (police reports, medical reports, etc.)

Evidence of previous relationship and visa

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Immediate settlement
  • Access to public funds via MVDAC
  • No financial/language requirements

Worth Knowing

  • Requires sensitive evidence
  • High application fee
  • Failure to provide evidence of abuse
  • Failure to meet suitability requirements

Application Process

1

Apply for MVDAC for temporary leave.

2

Gather evidence of abuse.

3

Complete SET(DV) form.

4

Apply for fee waiver if destitute.

5

Pay fee (if not waived).

6

Attend biometric appointment.

7

Submit documents.

Application Forms

Go to application portal
SET
Application to Settle in UK as Victim of Domestic Violence (SET(DV))
Fill online
MVDAC
Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession Application
Fill online

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