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Unmarried or same-sex partner of a British citizen or settled person

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This section explains whether and how you can come to or remain in the UK if you are the unmarried or same-sex partner of a British citizen or a person settled here.

If you are subject to immigration control and you are the unmarried or same-sex partner of a British citizen or person who is settled here, this category allows you to enter or remain in the UK. The relationship may be a heterosexual or same-sex relationship, but you must not be related by blood.

The requirements and process for applying as an unmarried or same-sex partner are the same as those for a Partner but the documents you must provide will be different. For more information, see the Documents required page.

You do not need to apply under this category if:

  • you are a national of a country in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland - the European nationals section describes your right to live in the UK;
  • you are the non-European family member of an EEA or Swiss national - the European nationals section explains whether you need to apply for a family permit;
  • you are a British overseas territories citizen, unless you are from one of the sovereign base areas in Cyprus; or
  • you have no conditions or time limit attached to your stay.

If you made an application to enter the UK on or before 8 July 2012 please see the Unmarried or same-sex partners who applied on or before 8 July 2012 pages.