My Russian partner and I want to marry and bring her child to UK

[Alexmo]

Hi all
I’m totally new on here and unaware of some of the protocols, so please forgive ignorance if I make any howling errors.
Basically, I have been with the Russian partner now for around 9 months and we are considering our future together and speaking frankly about the pitfalls we may face. They appear to be numerous to say the least. She has a 3 year old son. The father has only seen the boy a few times and shows little interest. However, my partner feels that he would object leaving the country. As a father myself, of course I could empathise with him and tbh, would be very hesitant in even suggesting the idea if he showed any commitment to the boy’s welfare. Just trying to get an idea if anybody has been in a similar situation. If we were to marry, would he have a chance of all living together in the UK? For what it’s worth, I have travelled to Russia five times already and been on holiday with my daughter, partner and her son. I’d like some advice on what steps I should be looking to take now as we begin what will surely be a long and difficult road.
Thanks in advance for any advice

[Frontier Mole]

It really all depends on the child access laws of Russia. You need to take proper legal advice on that matter as that will be the crux of it all. If the child’s father can prevent his child leaving then that will probably end the matter right there.

As for coming to the UK this assumes you have resolved the above.

Will you marry your partner in Russia? If so the Spouse visa route will allow you to bring her child as a dependent. You will need to meet the financial requirements and accommodation requirements. Are you aware of these?

If you intend to marry in the UK and your partner applies for a finance visa - TBH no idea if there is a dependent route with that.

The length of your relationship will be a concern and they will consider age difference and the brutal view of why your partner is moving ( other than for love). They are looking for sham marriage indicators - please bear in mind that although you may be firmly in love etc there are many out there that exploite this for various reasons.

I am aware of similar cases where the previous husband has had his access bought out and once the money has transferred then the whole relationship suddenly fails. I am sorry to paint a dark picture but love can be used as a very effective emotional leaver.