Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of their immigration status. However, under UK immigration law, not all victims are treated equally. While some people may know that spouses on a UK Spouse Visa can apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) if their relationship breaks down due to abuse, a critical gap remains.

What happens if you are in the UK as the dependant of a Skilled Worker visa holder?

As a UK immigration lawyer at Cross Border Legal Solicitors, I regularly receive enquiries from individuals trapped in abusive relationships who fear losing their immigration status if they leave. This is an increasingly common issue facing migrants across the UK, particularly those whose right to remain is financially and legally tied to an abusive partner. The sobering reality is that current UK immigration law offers very limited automatic protection to Skilled Worker Visa dependants facing domestic abuse.

If your spouse visa is due to expire soon, you’re probably feeling the pressure. Many applicants worry about getting something wrong, especially with strict financial requirements and complex document rules. A simple mistake can lead to refusal, delays, or even impact your right to stay in the UK. This guide explains clearly what you need to do to successfully extend your spouse visa and avoid costly errors.

As we look at recent changes, it’s essential for those navigating the UK immigration system to brace for significant fee increases across various visa and settlement routes. The UK Home Office has announced a broad adjustment in immigration and nationality fees, continuing a trend where applicants bear more of the financial burden associated with their immigration journeys.

Overview of Fee Changes

From 8 April 2026, most application fees will rise by approximately 6–7%. This encompasses a range of categories, including visit visas, work permits, settlement applications, and British citizenship applications. While some individual costs may seem modest, the cumulative impact—especially for families—can be quite substantial.

If you or your partner has previously overstayed in the UK and is now seeking a spouse visa, it is important to understand that the rules have changed and the process has become more complex. The legal framework governing refusals has tightened, meaning applications that might previously have been considered a realistic route can now face much stricter scrutiny, particularly where there is a history of overstaying, even in the absence of deception or criminal conduct.

As the year gets properly underway, Cross Border Legal Solicitors is fully open, recharged, and ready to support you. Whether you are a new or returning client, our focus remains simple: helping you move forward with confidence, clarity, and the right legal strategy behind you.

At Cross Border Legal Solicitors, we understand that immigration issues are rarely simple, and with over 10 years of experience, we know that mistakes can lead to serious, costly, stressful, and long-lasting consequences. That’s why we focus on providing clear, honest advice that safeguards your position from the outset, without unnecessary complexity or inflated costs.

Opening Hours & Flexible Appointments

Our physical office is based in Leicester, in the East Midlands of England, but we can work with clients from anywhere in the world. Our office hours are:

 Monday to Friday, 9:30 am – 5:30 pm.