Five_X

That's the first thing I read on the letter I received this morning. Unfortunately, my stay here in the UK has to come to an end.

The reason stated by the Home Office, specifically, is that I haven't been living with my girlfriend (our very own EXiku) for long enough. The letter explaining the refusal of my visa application, however, ended up being rather contradictory - so, hopefully, I'll be able to appeal it and get the visa. Otherwise, I'll have to go back to Canada and start all over again. In that case, I won't be able to re-apply for this Partners visa (or any UK visa) for another six months.

It's been a good, eventful two years. I've enjoyed my time here, along with the people I've met and opportunities I've had. I'll try for the appeal, but otherwise I'll be wrapping things up, packing my bags, and getting ready for a long trip back to where I came from.

EXiku and I have actually been engaged since May. I didn't mention this; I'd hoped to wait until the wedding, but I don't know when that might be! And this complicates, or at least confuses, this whole issue because there's not supposed to be a length of stay requirement for people in this circumstance. Unfortunately, just going out and getting married on the spot won't work now, it'd just be a bit dodgy-looking, wouldn't it?

Regardless of what happens, I'm sure I'll be able to make it through. Things might get a bit harder for a while, but I'll do what I can to come back. Between this and David Bowie's passing, this day has certainly been on the more miserable side of things.

Maybe I'll write up a list of things I learned while living in the UK...