The introduction of civil partnership for same-sex couples in the UK has impacted on immigration regulations regarding overseas relationships.
If you or your partner is subject to UK immigration control, there may be restrictions in terms of you forming a civil partnership, and you may need to gain entry clearance in order to come to the UK and register your partnership. You will be treated just like a straight couple in similar circumstances.
For lesbian and gay couples who have already formed a legal relationship in another country, if that relationship meets the requirements of the Civil Partnership Act, they will not need to register in the UK as well. Full details of overseas schemes which may be recognised in the UK can be found at www.womenandequalityunit.gov.uk/civilpartnership.htm
Couples not in civil partnerships
Bi-national same-sex couples who are not in, or do not want to be in, a civil partnership are subject to the concessions for unmarried partners set out in the immigration regulations introduced in 1997.
Under these regulations same-sex partners were only recognised as eligible for British residency if they could prove they had been in a four-year relationship akin to marriage. In 1999 this term was reduced to a two-year relationship. In 2000 the unmarried partners concession became an Immigration Rule.
Further information and advice
For advice and detailed information regarding UK immigration law as it relates to same-sex couples contact:
UK Lesbian and Gay Immigration Group
Telephone: 020 7620 6010
E-mail: info@uklgig.org.uk
Web: www.uklgig.org.ukImmigration and Nationality Bureau
Telephone: 0870 606 7766
Web: www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk
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