The Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC)
For many migrant victims of domestic abuse, escaping an abusive partner is only the first step. The bigger challenge is surviving without financial support. Many migrants hold visas that prohibit them from claiming benefits, leaving them without housing, income, or basic necessities. Recognising this, the UK government introduced the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC), which grants temporary access to public funds while victims apply for their immigration status.
UK Immigration Rules for Victims of Domestic Abuse
This article is the second part of our series on UK immigration protections for victims of domestic abuse. In the first article, we discussed the UK immigration rules that allow victims of domestic abuse to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR). I also highlighted the legal pathways available to those whose relationships have broken down due to abuse. However, a major obstacle faced by many migrant victims is their lack of access to public funds, which can leave them struggling to survive while they make their ILR applications.
The UK government introduced the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC) to bridge this gap by providing short-term financial relief to those who need urgent support. Unlike the ILR route, the MVDAC does not serve as an immigration route but temporarily allows victims to access benefits while they prepare their applications.
If you have not yet read our first article on UK immigration protections for victims of domestic abuse, I recommend doing so for a clearer understanding of the legal framework available.
This Article Will Cover:
- What the MVDAC is and how it works
- Who qualifies for the concession
- The process of applying for temporary leave under MVDAC
- The benefits available under the concession
- What happens after the three-month period
What is the Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession?
The MVDAC allows victims of domestic abuse who have no recourse to public funds (NRPF) to apply for three months of temporary leave. This enables them to:
- Access public funds such as housing support and Universal Credit.
- Find refuge accommodation to ensure their safety.
- Escape financial dependence on an abuser.
It is important to note that MVDAC is not an immigration route. It only provides short-term relief while victims apply for ILR under Appendix Victim of Domestic Abuse.
Who Qualifies for Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession?
To be eligible, an applicant must:
- Be in the UK on a partner visa.
- Have no recourse to public funds (NRPF).
- Be a victim of domestic abuse.
- Intend to apply for ILR under the domestic abuse rules.
Victims with other visa types (e.g., work or student visas) are not eligible for Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession but may have other legal options.
How to Apply for Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession
The process includes:
- Filling out the application form
- Providing evidence of domestic abuse: similar to an ILR application, evidence such as police reports or medical records is required.
- Submitting the application online: processing times are usually swift to ensure victims get support quickly.
Once granted, victims can claim public funds and seek urgent support services.
What Happens After Three Months?
The three-month period allows victims to:
- Gather evidence for their ILR application.
- Secure safe accommodation away from their abuser.
- Receive financial support during the transition.
At the end of the three months, victims must apply for ILR or another immigration status. Failure to do so could leave them without legal status in the UK.
Immediate Relief
The Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession is a crucial safety net, offering immediate relief to those fleeing abuse. However, it is only temporary. Victims must still apply for ILR under Appendix Victim of Domestic Abuse to secure their right to remain in the UK permanently.
If you or someone you know needs support, seeking professional advice as early as possible is essential. Legal advisers and domestic abuse charities can help navigate the process, ensuring a stronger application for both MVDAC and ILR.
Help is available. You are not alone.