What is the Domestic Violence Concession?

The Domestic Violence Concession (DVC) is a short-term immigration concession that allows victims of domestic abuse, who are in the UK on a partner visa, to access immediate protection and financial support while preparing an application for settlement.

It grants 3 months’ leave to remain with access to public funds (such as benefits and housing support). During this period, applicants are expected to submit an application for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the domestic violence route.

The concession recognises that victims of abuse should not be forced to remain in violent relationships out of fear of losing their immigration status or becoming destitute.

Who Can Apply for the Domestic Violence Concession?

You may apply if:

• You are in the UK on a partner visa (Spouse, Civil Partner, or Unmarried Partner visa).
• Your relationship has broken down due to domestic violence from your partner or their family.
• You need urgent access to public funds and financial support while preparing your ILR application.

Note: This concession does not apply to fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner visas, student dependants, or other visa categories.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you must show that:

1. You hold a valid partner visa (Spouse, Civil Partner, or Unmarried Partner visa).
2. The relationship has permanently broken down due to domestic violence.
3. You require immediate access to public funds for safety and living costs.
4. You intend to apply for ILR under the domestic violence rule.

What the Domestic Violence Concession Provides

• 3 months’ temporary leave to remain in the UK.
• Access to public funds (e.g., Universal Credit, housing support, child benefit).
• Time to prepare and submit an application for ILR (Settlement) under the domestic violence route.

Application Process

1. Submit an online application
   Apply through the Home Office portal using the Domestic Violence Concession form.
2. Supporting documents
   Provide evidence of your partner visa status and proof of relationship breakdown due to domestic violence.
3. Decision
   Decisions are usually made within 5 working days due to the urgent nature of the concession.
4. After approval
   You will receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) valid for 3 months. You should then apply for ILR under the domestic violence rules before the concession expires.

Supporting Documents Checklist

You may need to provide:

• Current passport or BRP showing your partner visa.
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate (if applicable).
• Evidence of domestic violence, which may include:
  • Police reports or incident logs.
  • Court orders (non-molestation orders, restraining orders).
  • Medical reports or GP letters.
  • Reports from social services, domestic violence charities, or refuge centres.
  • Statements from friends, neighbours, or family.

Fees and Costs

• The Domestic Violence Concession application is free of charge.
• When applying for ILR under the domestic violence rule, the standard ILR fee applies (£2,885 as of 2025).
• No Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is payable.

Processing Times

• DVC applications: Usually decided within 5 working days.
• ILR applications under domestic violence route: Standard 6 months (with priority options in some cases).

What Happens After the Concession Ends?

• You are expected to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under the domestic violence rule during the 3-month period.
• If ILR is granted, you will have permanent settlement in the UK, with the right to work and access public funds without restriction.
• If ILR is refused, you may need to leave the UK unless you have another valid immigration basis to remain.

Key Points to Remember

• The concession provides urgent protection and access to support for victims of abuse.
• Only available to those on partner visas.
• You must use the 3-month concession period to prepare and submit your ILR application.
• Strong evidence of domestic violence is crucial to secure ILR.
• Specialist legal advice is recommended to prepare both the concession and the ILR application.