Tier 2 General > Tier 5 > SET05 (or eqv partnership visa)

[Jolz369]

I have a few questions about Tier 5/SET05 visas and am hoping you can help.

About me:
* I am a New Zealand citizen and was residing in Australia prior to moving to the UK
* I am on a Tier 2 General visa. I worked for the same company in Australia and they relocated me to the UK
* Been in the UK for 2.5 years
* I am still under 30 and therefore eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme (Tier 5)
* I have a European girlfriend

I love living in the UK but am really not enjoying the work I'm currently doing and there is no opportunity for growth in my current company. I am struggling to find a suitable permanent job/company that is willing to take over the sponsorship.

I am thinking about switching to the Tier 5 visa and then start the job hunt afresh and seek contract roles. I would like to stay in the UK as long as possible.

1) I am considering moving in with my girlfriend when I am on my Tier 5. I believe we can then apply for the SET05 visa (https://www.gov.uk/government/publicati ... ners-set05) after living together for 2 years. Does this apply for European citizens as well (the ‘Present and settled’ section is not 100% clear for me). Note: My girlfriend has only resided in the UK for 1.5 years – so is this SET05 still a valid option for us?
2) What other partnership visa options are available for my situation? EEA FP?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Obie]

unfortunately the regulations does not make provision for boyfriend and girlfriends. It only covers durable partners, which is more than boyfriend.