Tier 5 (YMS) Visa > spouse/dependant of Work Permit Holde

I am an Australian here under a Tier 5 YMS visa, expiring in 5 months time. My girlfriend is Australian and here, sponsored under the old Work Permit scheme - she has been given Limited Leave to Remain in the UK until the end of 2014 (5 Years).

We want to stay together in the UK for another few years and plan to get married ASAP. Once we are married is it possible for me to be declared a dependant of hers, and remain in the UK as her dependant? Do I need to go back to Australia and apply for a sepearte visa?

It is impossible to find any information on any website (especially UK gioverment) as she is here under an old scheme (now closed) - am I right in asking that the rules for that scheme apply?

Thanks for the help!!

You'll need a Certificate of Approval to marry in the UK. Given the fact that you have only 5 months leave remaining, that is not an option for you (long waiting times).

The two of you can marry in OZ and you may then apply for leave to enter as a dependent. If you partner's current leave was granted under the old work permit scheme (and that the stamp doesn't say Tier 2), then you may be eligible to apply as a dependent under the old scheme rather than under Tier 2 (General).



regards