visa for an australian

[janek]

i have an australian friend who is living in the UK on a dependent spouse visa with her husband and daughter, who is in reception. they've been here just over a year and the daughter was in the local nursery last year.

my friend would like to leave her husband, but stay in the UK. is this possible? what kind of visa could she get, with a dependent child? is there anywhere she could go for advice? would the fact that the child is settled in school, and the child's father will remain in the UK help her?

any advice gratefully received.

tia

I'm no expert but from my limited experience/knowlege, if your friend is on a dependent spouse visa, if she leaves her partner, her visa is no longer valid and she would have to leave the UK. There are extenuating circumstances to this I believe, such as domestic violence within the relationship.

She could possibly apply for a visa on her own merit; ie the Tier 1 Highly Skilled category but that is quite strict on previous earnings and qualifications.

As I say though, I am not an expert and she should consult a professional.

thanks, i kind of thought that once she's not dependent she cannot be a dependent spouse, although what about maintenance payments - she will still be somewhat dependent. i believe he is abusive, although not really physically.

stupid question, but who would this 'professional' who she should consult be..?

i shall also google 'tier 1 highly skilled'.

thanks for your response.

THe UK border agency website has this information for relationships ending.

In terms of advice, there are several visa agencies such as Global Visas or even more specialised immigration solicitors who she could contact. They do charge.

This forum can offer good advice.

Sorry, I don't really know the ins and outs of what to do in your friends case as it's completly different to my experience. Hope it all works out, especially for the little girl.

that's really useful, thank you very much.

bump for potential evening experts...