5 Year work permit to Unmarried Partner visa

[Rick-T]

Hi there, I have been in the UK since August 2007, the first 12 months were under a holiday visa ( I am a New Zealand Citizen ) and the rest has been under a sponsored work permit at my job.

I came over to London with my partner who is a British Citizen and we have been living together since November 2007 ( I have tenancy records, bills etc from this date ).

I am currently employed and prove funds etc

My question is regarding changing over to an unmarried partner visa ( FLR M ).

1. Can I complete the process within the UK? ( or do I have to apply from NZ?)
2. How long does the process typically take?
3. Am I being realistic? i.e. am I a good candidate?

Thanks for any help with this, I have been getting alot of conflicting information around this and couldn't find anything helpful in the archives...

Cheers,

Rick

[Casa]

You can certainly switch to spouse from within the UK. You can apply in person at one of the PEO's by prior appointment, where 90% of the applications are decided on the day. If you apply by post (for a lower fee) the processing time is anything from 6-12 weeks on average.
As you already know you apply on form FLR(M) and you need to show proof of a relationship 'akin to marriage' for a minimum of 2 years (joint address etc), adequate accommodation and sufficient joint finances to support you both without claiming Public funds.
As you're a NZ national, you won't need to take the new A1 English test.