The SET-DV (Domestic Violence) route offers a way to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK if your relationship entered under a partner visa has permanently broken down due to domestic abuse. This compassionate route allows survivors to rebuild their lives free from their abuser.
Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC)
Before applying via SET-DV, eligible victims can benefit from the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC)—a 3-month statutory concession that:
- Grants Leave Outside the Rules (LOTR) with access to public funds and permission to work;
- Provides time to either apply via SET-DV or regularise status through another route—or to safely leave the UK;
Eligibility Criteria
To apply under the SET-DV route:
- You must be in the UK and have previously held permission as a partner (spouse, civil, unmarried, or durable partner) under applicable immigration routes, or have been granted LOTR under the DDV/MVDAC accommodation. GOV.UK
- Your most recent relationship must have permanently broken down due to domestic abuse. GOV.UK
- Importantly, there is no requirement for you to pass any English language test, Life in the UK test, or meet financial or working thresholds.
Types of Evidence
There is a wide range of acceptable supporting evidence, such as:
- Police reports or incident logs
- Court orders (e.g., restraining orders)
- Referrals from Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC)
- Healthcare or refuge letters
- Support letters from professionals or trusted individuals
- Digital communication records (messages, screenshots)
- Evidence of financial control or coercion. GOV.UK
How to Apply
- MVDAC Application (if needed): Submit the LOTR (DDV/V) form via email or post to the Home Office for temporary permission. This allows access to benefits and shelters.GOV.UK
- SET-DV ILR Application: Use form SET(DV)—online via GOV.UK. The application can include any dependent children and must be filed within the 3-month LOTR period. Late filings put you at risk of becoming an overstayer.
The transition from concession to full ILR includes:
- Automatic continuation of LOTR if SET-DV is submitted in time, even if your original permission expires;
- Extension through administrative review or appeal continues the status until final decision. GOV.UK
Applications & Support
- The SET-DV fee of £2,389 may be waived if you’re destitute, but you must prove true destitution (unable to meet basic living needs if the fee is paid).
- You can live and work in the UK throughout the process, and claim certain benefits if eligible.
- Legal aid may be available, and specialist domestic abuse and immigration charities can provide critical support. GOV.UK
Protect Yourself Through the SET-DV Route
If your partner relationship based on a UK partner visa has permanently broken down due to domestic abuse, the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC) provides a 3-month safe window of permission to stay with access to income support and work rights. During this time, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain via form SET(DV), without requiring any English or Life in the UK test or proof of financial means.
This route helps survivors in vulnerable situations rebuild their lives regardless of duration in the UK or employment. The application should be supported by evidence like police reports, MARAC referrals, medical or refuge letters, or messages. If you’re destitute, you may also qualify for a fee waiver. Legal and advocacy support is available feel free to reach out for help.