Unmarried couple visa. WRS cancellation implications

[NikKol]

Hi, I am a Russian national on a student visa expiring Nov 2011. I have been living with Czech girlfriend for more than 2 years. She has been in the UK for 4 years being a full time student.

There are a couple of questions:

1. Can I apply for an unmarried couple visa after April when the WRS is abolished? Or I can apply for right now (she is not registered for WRS).

2. When she is in the UK for 5 years, she will be able to apply for settlement. Can I apply for 2 year family member leave at the same time?

3. As I am graduating in June 2011, will I be able to apply for PSW visa or it is definitely ending in April?

Thank you so much!

[86ti]

First of all, there are no visa on the EEA route. You can, however, apply for a Residence Card. A student does not need to register with the WRS (the 'W' stands for worker).

She can apply for confirmation of permanent residence provided she has exercised her treaty rights for a continuous period of 5 years. Having PR also means that she will be a settled person and the UK route may be possible for you too.

[NikKol]

Thanks for that.

If she was a settled person this is one thing, it make is much easier. But what can I do before she applies for settlement?

I could get a Residence card only if she works in the UK for 12 months. Or what you said refers to to after-april situation when wrs is abolished?

If I was to apply today, would I have to apply for the Family member residence stamp? I am not sure this is available for unmarried couples?

Thanks again