I am looking into doing the common-law/conjugal sponsorship if my EE does not go to plan. This is my situation and I would love some advice.
I have been on an IEC visa since May 2015, which expires 31 May 2017. I have been with my boyfriend since May 2016, and living with him since August 2016 and we rent a room in his parents basement and pay her rent which includes bills. We do not share a bank account, we do not share bills such as phone contracts, electricity etc. My bank account has been registered to this address since moving in August, and other things like my phone bill etc were registered a few months later.
If I do not get accepted for EE, the reasons for this will most likely be because my education from the UK isn't high enough to get me the required points.
Can anybody recommend the best/easiest/fastest way for me to apply for this, baring in mind I can only work in the country until 31 May 2017 and I will only have been living with my boyfriend for 9/10 months by the time it expires. I will most probably apply for the visitors visa so I can stay a bit longer, but I cannot afford to be a Visitor for 12-18 months living in the country not making any money.
I would also like to add that I don't particularly want to be away from my boyfriend for more than 3 months, but also don't want to make him come to the UK if it makes it more complicated. We also would like to travel at some point, and reading the above states they don't allow you to leave the country once in the process. I see that once the first stage is processed, If I am an inland applicant, I could potentially get an open work permit so I can get a job. What are the turn around times from the first part of the process, to where you can apply for the work permit? And if I am an outland applicant, how long would it take for this to be approved?
Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated
Emily