EU Residence Permit & non European partner
020 7836 8505
A non-EU citizen married to an EU citizen who is present and settled in the UK, or being settled on the same occasion must apply to a British Embassy or British Mission in their country of origin for Entry Clearance for a family permit as the married spouse of an EU citizen, before embarking for the UK. Immigration in this visa category is valid from six months at the Entry Clearance Officer's discretion, and allows the non-EU spouse to work on arrival to the UK, then apply for a 5 year Family Permit within the period approved by the ECO. Call our consultants for up to date advice.
If you are currently residing in the UK you may apply for the 5 year Family Permit in country, provided your spouse/partner holds a current Residence Permit. If the EU spouse/partner does not hold a current Residence Permit a joint application would be made to the Home Office for a Residence Permit (for the EU spouse/partner) and a 5 year Family Permit (for the non-EU spouse/partner).
Although it is possible for an EU national to live and reside in the UK without obtaining a visa, or work permit, they must obtain a Residence Permit in order for their spouse to remain legally with them in the UK.
An application for a Residence Permit and a 5 year Family Permit may be submitted anytime during the life of the Entry Clearance. If you were married in the UK this application may be lodged once you are married.
Once you have been issued with the 5 year family permit you may remain in the UK for a period of 5 years, be permitted to work freely, and exit and enter as you wish.
If you would like more information about the next steps to Permanent Residency, please go to the subtitle marked Indefinite Leave to Remain and Permanent Residency.
If you would like any further information and are interested in using our services for the full application process or want to see an adviser for consultation please contact us directly 0207 8368505 or 01825 767 288 our offices are open from 09.30 – 17.30