I will be renewing my visa by way of form FLR(M) based on my civil partnership. If it makes a difference, I think I will be attending an appointment in Croydon. I have two questions (for now!).
First, my partner and I have a bit of an unusual setup. We work in different cities (me in London, him on the continent), and make our home, which we own together, in Edinburgh (yes, I'm a "supercommuter", and it is exhausting). I have to renew in-person because my job requires me to travel internationally, sometimes on short notice (and so I can't really part with my passport). His job (he is a public figure) makes it very difficult for him to be able to attend an appointment with me during the particular period when I need to renew my visa. If he isn't able to attend the appointment with me, can I provide a letter from him explaining why he can't attend, but attesting to our relationship etc? (He is google-able, as well, so they can verify who he is.) I would think this is possible, insofar as if you apply by mail, it's not as if they meet with both of you anyway, but I'd like to hear anyone's experience with this.
Second, when you submit your application, do they take away your old BRP? My visa expires on a Tuesday, but we are supposed to travel to Barcelona for the preceding weekend. Obviously, if they are going to take my BRP, this could make travelling difficult, unless I opt to attend an appointment the Monday (i.e., the day before my visa expires). This is my first time renewing with the BRP, so I have no idea what to expect.
Thanks!
