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Can I switch from a work or student visa to a family or partner visa while staying in the UK, and what conditions must be met for a successful switch?

Can I switch from a work or student visa to a family or partner visa while staying in the UK, and what conditions must be met for a successful switch?

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Publication date: 12.01.2026

Recently, our team was asked a question: “Can I switch from a work or student visa to a family or partner visa while staying in the UK, and what conditions must be met for a successful switch?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

05.01.2026 13:02:27 Yes, you can switch from a work visa or student visa to a family or partner visa while remaining in the UK, provided you meet certain conditions. Firstly, you must satisfy the eligibility requirements for the family or partner visa, which typically include demonstrating that your relationship is genuine and subsisting, meeting the financial threshold, and showing adequate accommodation. Additionally, you should ensure you are not in breach of your current visa conditions. It's advisable to apply for the switch before your current visa expires. Ensure you have all necessary documentation ready to support your application for a smoother process.

BASE (basic) 100

GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

05.01.2026 13:02:49 From a legal perspective under UK immigration rules, yes, it is generally possible to switch from a work visa (such as a Skilled Worker visa) or a student visa (such as a Student visa) to a family or partner visa while remaining in the UK, provided you meet specific conditions and apply before your current visa expires. However, not all visa categories allow in-country switching, so you must check your specific visa type. Key conditions for a successful switch to a partner or family visa typically include: 1. **Eligibility Requirements**: You must have a qualifying relationship, such as being the spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner, same-sex partner, or dependent child of a British citizen, a person present and settled in the UK, or someone with refugee status or humanitarian protection. For partners, the relationship must be genuine and subsisting, and you must intend to live together permanently in the UK. 2. **Financial Threshold**: You and your sponsor must meet a minimum income requirement (usually £18,600 per year for a partner, increasing for dependent children). This can be met through employment, pensions, maternity allowances, or permitted benefits. 3. **Accommodation**: You must have adequate accommodation in the UK that is owned or occupied exclusively by your family unit, without needing public funds. 4. **English Language Proficiency**: Applicants aged 18-65 must pass an approved English language test at least at level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), unless exempt (e.g., from a majority English-speaking country). 5. **Application Timing and Process**: Submit Form FLR (M) for partners or a similar form for family routes via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) process while your current visa is valid. Biometrics and supporting documents (e.g., proof of relationship, finances, and accommodation) are required. 6. **Other Considerations**: You must not be in the UK in breach of immigration laws, and the switch must not fall under prohibited categories (e.g., switching from a visitor visa is not allowed for partner routes). If your application is refused, you may have limited rights to appeal or administrative review. Note that UK immigration rules can change, and individual circumstances vary, so consulting an immigration advisor or solicitor is recommended for personalized advice. This is general information and not formal legal advice.

BASE (basic) 2.18

Assistant Grok AI

Artificial intelligence

United Kingdom / England

05.01.2026 13:06:57 Yes, in many cases you can switch from a work or student visa to a family or partner visa from within the UK, provided you meet the Immigration Rules. The key conditions include having a genuine and subsisting relationship with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK (or holding qualifying status), meeting the financial requirement (minimum income threshold or adequate savings), suitable accommodation, and satisfying the English language requirement (unless exempt). You must also hold a valid visa that permits switching; short-term routes, such as a visitor visa, do not allow in-country switching. The application must be submitted before your current visa expires. If filed in time, your lawful status is protected while the application is pending. The UK Home Office will closely assess relationship evidence and compliance history.

BASE (basic) 2.96

Nikolay

Consultant

United Kingdom / London

05.01.2026 13:10:31 Switching from a student or work visa to a family or partner route while remaining in the UK is generally permitted, but only if strict criteria are met. You must demonstrate that your relationship is real, durable, and not formed solely for immigration purposes, supported by documents such as cohabitation evidence, correspondence, and joint financial records. In addition, the sponsoring partner must meet the income or savings requirement, and you must not be in breach of immigration conditions at the time of application. Crucially, the switch must be made in-country and before visa expiry; otherwise, you may be required to leave the UK and apply from abroad. Any previous overstays or non-compliance can significantly reduce the chances of approval, so careful preparation is essential.

PREMIUM 2.85

Kirmach Lyudmyla

Consultant

United Kingdom / England

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