Can I get ILR if I leave an abusive partner?

Yes. If you are on a spouse, partner, or fiancee visa and your relationship has broken down due to domestic violence, you can apply for ILR under the domestic violence provisions of the Immigration Rules. You do not need to have completed the 5-year route.

The Destitution Domestic Violence Concession is a temporary provision that gives victims of domestic abuse 3 months leave to remain and access to public funds while they prepare their ILR application. It is a bridge between leaving the abusive relationship and obtaining permanent status.

What evidence do I need for a domestic violence ILR application?

Evidence can include police reports, court orders, medical records, letters from support organisations, refuge records, and your own written statement. The Home Office accepts a wide range of evidence and understands that victims may not have comprehensive documentation.

ILR for Domestic Violence Victims: The DDVC and DV Rules

Victims of domestic violence on spouse or partner visas can apply for ILR under the domestic violence provisions of the Immigration Rules. The DDVC provides temporary leave and access to benefits while the ILR application is prepared. No financial requirement applies. The Home Office treats these cases with particular care.

Immediate Safety

If you are in immediate danger, call 999. The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available 24 hours on 0808 2000 247. Refuge provides safe accommodation. You will not be deported for seeking help. See our Home Office contact guide for more ways to get in touch.

See our domestic violence and visa guide for broader information.

The DDVC

The Destitution Domestic Violence Concession provides:

3 months' temporary leave to remain.
Access to public funds (benefits, housing support).
Time to prepare your ILR application.

Apply through the GOV.UK DDVC page. You must be destitute or at risk of destitution.

Applying for ILR Under the DV Rules

The ILR application under the domestic violence provisions requires:

Evidence that you were in a genuine relationship with a British citizen or settled person.
Evidence that the relationship broke down due to domestic violence.
You must have had valid leave as a partner at the time of the breakdown.

The financial requirement, English language test, and Life in the UK test are waived for DV-based ILR applications. The Immigration Health Surcharge may still apply.

Evidence of Domestic Violence

The Home Office accepts a wide range of evidence:

Police reports or crime reference numbers.
Non-molestation orders or restraining orders.
Medical reports documenting injuries or psychological harm.
Letters from refuges, support organisations, or social workers.
Your own detailed written statement.

You do not need a criminal conviction. The balance of probability applies. You can use your eVisa or BRP as proof of your immigration status when dealing with support services.

Support Organisations

National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247.
Refuge: Safe accommodation and support.
Southall Black Sisters: Support for Black and minority ethnic women.
Men's Advice Line: 0808 801 0327 (for male victims).
Galop: Support for LGBT+ victims of domestic abuse.

Many organisations provide free immigration advice alongside domestic abuse support. See our DIY vs solicitor guide for help deciding whether you need professional legal representation. You can also read about what to do if your visa is refused and the ILR process generally.

After ILR

After receiving ILR through the DV route, you have the same rights as any ILR holder. See our benefits after ILR guide. You can also proceed to British citizenship.