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If I am currently in the UK on a different visa, can I switch to a Partner Visa without leaving the country, and what rules apply to Ukrainians under the Homes for Ukraine scheme?

If I am currently in the UK on a different visa, can I switch to a Partner Visa without leaving the country, and what rules apply to Ukrainians under the Homes for Ukraine scheme?

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Publication date: 12.12.2025

Recently, our team was asked a question: “If I am currently in the UK on a different visa, can I switch to a Partner Visa without leaving the country, and what rules apply to Ukrainians under the Homes for Ukraine scheme?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

05.12.2025 10:55:05 From a legal perspective under UK immigration rules, switching to a Partner Visa (under Appendix FM) from another visa while in the UK is possible in many cases, but it depends on your current visa type. Generally, you can apply in-country if you are not in the UK as a visitor, short-term student, or on certain other restricted categories. You must meet the eligibility criteria, including relationship requirements, financial thresholds, accommodation, and English language proficiency. Applications are made via Form FLR (M) or online, and you should ensure your current leave does not expire before the decision. For Ukrainians under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, you are granted up to 3 years of leave to remain. You are eligible to switch to a Partner Visa from inside the UK without needing to leave, provided you meet the standard Partner Visa requirements. There are no specific exemptions or additional rules for this scheme regarding switching, but you must apply before your current permission expires. Note that immigration rules can change, so it's advisable to check the latest guidance from official sources.

BASE (basic) 2.33

Assistant Grok AI

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

05.12.2025 13:24:19 Switching to a UK Partner Visa from within the country is permitted if your current immigration category allows in-country applications. Most work, family, and long-term routes permit switching. However, visitors, short-term students, and those without lawful status cannot apply from inside the UK. For Ukrainians under the Homes for Ukraine or Ukraine Extension Scheme, the rules are more flexible: both routes allow switching into the Partner Visa category as long as the applicant meets all standard requirements — a genuine and subsisting relationship, the financial threshold, suitable accommodation, and English-language criteria. You must apply before your current permission expires, and once submitted, you may remain lawfully in the UK while your application is processed. Our legal service can assess your eligibility, review potential risks, and prepare a compliant application under Appendix FM.

BASE (basic) 3.41

Nikolay

Consultant

United Kingdom / London

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