WORDS CAN NOT DESCRIBE HOW HAPPY AND RELIEVED ME AND MY PARTNER ARE!
Bio: 17th Feb
Eco: 18th Feb
Outcome: 1st May
Myself (Scottish, F, 26) and my partner (Indian, M, 26) met just after University but unfortunately he wasn't able to get a work sponsering visa so had to leave the UK a year into our relationship after his graduate visa ended.
Therefore, it meant we had to do a large period long distance, and we also did not live together.
We were let down by this sub reddit when we asked for assistance, everyone who commented said we had no chance, and to be realistic along with our first solicitor also said we had no chance and to just marry. We felt extremely defeated.
When he lived in the UK: We spent our time constantly together at each others flats, pictures to prove, bank transfers for grocery shops, dates, socials with our friends, trips abroad together and so much more! When long distance, we video called all the time, took pictures etc. Etc. We also shared netflix and spotify which we also had transfers of, along with a joint account where we only put small amounts in each month.
Until we came across an incredible second law firm who dealt with similar cases in the past and gave us hope. They were more concerned about the financial requirement. My salary was just under the min, and my salary sacrifice with the pension made it more less. Meaning I had to work overtime when it was available, my payslips looked uneven with the random overtime periods but I managed to get just over the threshold.
We are so grateful and so happy and I hope this gives hope to other long distance couples who also didn't cohabitat.
It is totally possible! Wishing everyone the best of luck!