Abuse by Immigration Status
No one should be abused because of their immigration status. You have rights—and support is available.
For many migrants, the fear of deportation, detention, or losing their immigration status can be used by abusers as a weapon of control. This form of abuse is deeply rooted in power, fear, and isolation—but help is available, and your safety matters more than your immigration status.
At STN Women’s Lives Matter, we support women from all backgrounds, including those with insecure or temporary immigration status. You are not alone—and you do not need to suffer in silence.
What Is Immigration Abuse?
Immigration abuse is a form of coercive control where someone uses your immigration status, or threats around it, to frighten, control, or isolate you. This may come from a partner, family member, employer, or someone else in a position of power.
Examples include:
- Threatening to report you to immigration authorities
- Confiscating or hiding your passport, visa, or legal documents
- Lying to you about your rights or visa status
- Telling you that seeking help will get you deported
- Controlling your access to services or legal advice
- Preventing you from working, studying, or attending appointments
- Using your lack of English or isolation to manipulate or exploit you
- Telling you that your children will be taken away
- Using sponsorship or visa dependency to trap you in the relationship
“He kept saying, ‘No one will help you—they’ll just send you back.’ I believed him, until I found a support service that explained my rights. That was the beginning of my freedom.”
— Sara, survivor on a spousal visa
The Impact of Immigration Abuse
Women facing abuse linked to their immigration status often experience:
- Intense fear of deportation or detention
- Isolation from community, services, or support
- Anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts
- Financial dependence and poverty
- Inability to seek help due to language barriers or misinformation
- Loss of confidence and sense of identity
Abuse that exploits your immigration status is still abuse, and you deserve protection.
Your Rights in the UK
You have legal rights, even if your immigration status is insecure or dependent on someone else.
- Domestic abuse is a crime, regardless of your immigration status
- You may be eligible for legal aid or free immigration advice
- You can access refuge accommodation if you are fleeing abuse
- Some women on spousal visas can apply for a Destitution Domestic Violence (DDV) concession
- If you are undocumented, you can still access support services safely and confidentially
We can help connect you to immigration solicitors, caseworkers, and support organisations who understand the complex needs of migrant women.
Are You at Immediate Risk?
If you are in immediate danger, call 999. The police will prioritise your safety over immigration concerns.
If you cannot speak, press 55 when prompted on a silent 999 call.
📱 You can also text 999 if you’re deaf or unable to speak (register your phone first).
How We Support Migrant and Refugee Women
At STN Women’s Lives Matter, we offer culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and immigration-aware support, including:
- Help with accessing safe housing and emergency refuge
- Referrals to immigration solicitors and legal aid
- Emotional and mental health support
- Advocacy with local authorities, NHS, and Home Office
- Group and peer support in multiple languages
- Language interpretation where needed
Whether you have a visa, are seeking asylum, or are undocumented—you have the right to live free from abuse.
Support for Organisations & Professionals
We also offer:
- Training on immigration abuse and safeguarding migrant women
- Partnership work with community groups and law centres
- Guidance on the DDV concession, NRPF, and trauma-informed practice
Let’s ensure every woman—regardless of status—can reach safety and rebuild her life