Applications under the Skilled Worker dependant route may appear straightforward on paper, but in practice they require careful legal preparation. The Home Office applies strict requirements to unmarried partner applications, particularly when assessing cohabitation and the genuineness of the relationship.
This case demonstrates how a structured legal approach and properly organised evidence can secure a successful outcome.
The situation
Our client approached us to apply as an unmarried partner of a Skilled Worker. The goal was to secure permission to stay in the UK as a dependant partner under the Skilled Worker route.
Although there were no immigration breaches in this case, unmarried partner applications remain highly evidence-driven and are frequently refused where documentation is incomplete, inconsistent, or poorly presented.
At the outset, the case required a clear strategy and a carefully prepared evidence bundle.
Key legal challenges
This application involved several important legal considerations.
- Meeting the “relationship akin to marriage” requirement
The Immigration Rules require applicants to prove that the relationship is genuine, subsisting, and comparable to marriage or civil partnership. - Demonstrating cohabitation
Applicants must provide substantial evidence of living together in a relationship similar to marriage. The Home Office expects consistent and well-structured documentation covering the relevant period. - Ensuring a coherent evidence package
Even where a relationship is genuine, applications can be refused if evidence is fragmented, insufficient, or not clearly presented.
Our strategy
We approached the application with a structured and evidence-led legal strategy.
Comprehensive case review
We conducted a detailed assessment of the client’s immigration history, eligibility, and available documentation.
Tailored application strategy
We developed a submission plan aligned with the Skilled Worker Dependant route and Home Office guidance.
Evidence gathering and structuring. We worked closely with the client to collect and organise documents demonstrating:
- Cohabitation
- Financial interdependence
- Shared responsibilities and life together
- The genuine and subsisting nature of the relationship
Legal representation letter
We prepared a detailed legal representation explaining how the application met the Immigration Rules and Home Office policy requirements.
Full document bundle review
All documents were checked and structured to ensure clarity, consistency, and strong presentation before submission.
The outcome
The application was submitted with a complete evidence bundle and legal representations.
Result: the application was successfully approved.
Our client was granted permission to stay in the UK as a Skilled Worker dependant partner until 14 September 2027.
Key takeaway
Unmarried partner applications are rarely “simple” cases.
Success depends on:
- A clear legal strategy
- Strong and consistent relationship evidence
- Properly structured and professionally presented submissions
Professional preparation significantly reduces the risk of refusal.
Need expert help?
If you are planning to apply as a dependant partner or want to assess your eligibility, early legal advice can make a decisive difference. Contact LawSentis today to discuss your case.
