Extending Unmarried Partnership Visa

[W0rldtravel]

Hi Everyone,

I'm currently in the UK on an unmarried partnership visa which will expire on 04-MAY-18

I understand I cannot apply outside of 28 days from the expiry date?

I just have a few queries and would love some assistance if possible.

•Will my length of stay change if I will be applying this time as a fiancé or not?

•As I'm currently employed and the UKVI website states the visa application process takes 4-6 weeks to process, doesn't that leave me with the only option of organising an appointment with a priority service centre so that my employment (hopefully) remains unaffected?

•I used an immigration lawyer for my initial unmarried partnership visa but feel we might just apply without one as we have a bit better understanding of the application process and have copious amounts of paperwork in regards to evidence of relationship akin to marriage.

Any help massively appreciated... Thanks!

[CR001]

I understand I cannot apply outside of 28 days from the expiry date?

Either 28 days before reaching the 2.5 year residence mark OR within 28 days before visa expires.

•Will my length of stay change if I will be applying this time as a fiancé or not?

No. It is a 2.5 year visa.

•As I'm currently employed and the UKVI website states the visa application process takes 4-6 weeks to process, doesn't that leave me with the only option of organising an appointment with a priority service centre so that my employment (hopefully) remains unaffected?

No. If you submit your application before your visa expires, your existing visa conditions continue as you are protected by Section 3C of the immigration rules. Your employer will be able to do an Employee Status Check once you have an application reference number.

•I used an immigration lawyer for my initial unmarried partnership visa but feel we might just apply without one as we have a bit better understanding of the application process and have copious amounts of paperwork in regards to evidence of relationship akin to marriage.

No need for a lawyer if you meet all the requirements. You only need 2 years evidence of cohabitation etc. This is the 2 year preceeding your date of application.

[Casa]

You are unable to submit a fiance visa application from within the UK as this an entry application.

[W0rldtravel]

Hi CR001 and Casa,

You both are brilliant and I cannot thank you enough for such prompt responses! I shall apply to extend my visa within 28 days of the visa expiry date of 04-MAY-18 then. Take care!