The United Kingdom government has reportedly introduced a new immigration policy targeting dependent visa holders, stating that individuals who arrive in the country through a spouse or partner’s visa sponsorship must return to their home country in the event of a divorce.
This policy shift is already stirring discussions both in the UK and abroad, particularly within migrant communities.
According to details circulating among immigration advisory platforms and media outlets, dependents whose visa status is tied to their partner will no longer be permitted to remain in the UK if their marital or civil relationship legally ends. The measure, authorities argue, is aimed at discouraging abuse of the dependent visa system and ensuring that the primary reason for entry remains intact.
“If your husband or wife brought you to the UK through the dependent visa and you divorce them, you are going back to your home country,” a policy brief shared online stated.
The rule is seen as a direct response to rising cases where individuals allegedly marry primarily to gain access to the UK, only to initiate separation or divorce soon after settling into the country. Immigration authorities are reportedly reviewing thousands of such cases to enforce the new guidelines effectively.
A senior Home Office official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the policy update, noting:
“The UK government is committed to strengthening the integrity of its immigration system. When someone’s legal stay is entirely based on a relationship that no longer exists, it becomes invalid to retain immigration privileges on that basis.”
The move has drawn mixed reactions. While some see it as a necessary step to uphold immigration ethics, others fear it could expose dependents to abuse or manipulation, particularly in toxic or violent marriages.
An immigration consultant in London, Mary Asuquo, told reporters, “This policy will affect many people, especially women, who may endure abusive relationships just to avoid deportation. The government should consider safeguards for victims of domestic abuse.”
Still, others say the rule may deter opportunistic marriages that exploit UK residency privileges.
A social media user commented, “Many people brought their spouse to the UK and in no time they divorced them. Omo, the divorce is likely to reduce now.”
Under the new guidelines, once a couple legally separates or divorces, the dependent spouse is expected to notify the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) within a specific time frame.
Failure to do so could result in a ban on future re-entry overstaying penalties, or forced removal.
NIGERIAN EYE NEWSPAPER
