On a Spouse Visa and Experiencing Abuse? Here Is What You Need to Know

If you came to the UK on a spouse or partner visa, you may worry that asking for help will affect your right to stay.

This fear stops many women from getting support. But the law gives you specific protections.

You can get help — it will not automatically affect your visa

Calling the police or going to a refuge does not mean you will be deported. Accessing support is not an immigration offence.

If your relationship has broken down because of domestic abuse, you may be able to apply to stay in the UK on your own. This is called the Domestic Violence Rule (also called Indefinite Leave to Remain — Domestic Violence route).

To use this route, you usually need to show that:

• You have limited leave to remain as a partner or spouse
• Your relationship broke down due to domestic violence

You do not need a criminal conviction. Evidence can include a letter from a GP, a social worker, or a support organisation like us.

The UK Government website has full details of this route.

If you have no recourse to public funds

Many spouse visas include a condition called “no recourse to public funds” (NRPF). This means you cannot claim most benefits.

But you may still be able to get emergency support. The Destitute Domestic Violence Concession (DDVC) allows eligible women to claim some benefits for up to three months while they apply to stay in the UK.

Southall Black Sisters has clear information on NRPF and what support is available.

What to do next

You do not need to wait until you are in danger to ask for advice.

Contact our team to talk through your situation. We work with women from many different backgrounds. We understand the pressures that come with immigration uncertainty.

We can also refer you to a specialist immigration adviser if you need legal advice.

Citizens Advice has free information about your immigration rights.