If you are planning to join your partner in the United Kingdom, there are specific visa routes designed for couples, including Fiancé(e), Proposed Civil Partner, and Spouse/Civil Partner visas. These visas are intended for non-EEA/EU nationals who wish to marry or live permanently with a British Citizen or a person who holds settled status in the UK.
Fiancé(e) and Proposed Civil Partner Visa
This visa is available to individuals engaged to a British Citizen or someone who has Indefinite Leave to Remain (settled status) in the UK. It allows the applicant to enter the UK for six months for the purpose of marriage or civil partnership. After the wedding, applicants may switch to a Spouse or Civil Partner visa without needing to leave the UK.
Important: This visa should not be confused with the Marriage Visitor Visa, which only allows entry to marry in the UK but does not permit staying afterward.
Key Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a UK Fiancé(e)/Proposed Civil Partner Visa, you must meet the following conditions:
- Sponsor Status: The UK-based partner (sponsor) must be a British Citizen or a settled person (with Indefinite Leave to Remain). If the sponsor is overseas temporarily, they must show their intention to return to the UK with their partner.
- Legal Freedom to Marry: Both applicants must be free to marry or enter a civil partnership (i.e., divorced or widowed if previously married).
- Age Requirement: Both must be at least 18 years old.
- Personal Meeting: The couple must have met in person and provide evidence of their relationship.
- Wedding Arrangements: Proof that a wedding or civil partnership ceremony is planned within six months of arrival in the UK.
- Genuine Relationship: Evidence that the relationship is real, committed, and intended to continue permanently.
- English Language: Applicants must meet the English language requirement (through an approved test or proof of education in English).
- Financial & Accommodation Requirements:
- Sponsors must demonstrate an annual income of at least £29,000 (as of April 2024).
- If children are applying as dependants, the income threshold increases:
- £33,000 for one child
- £36,500 for two children
- £40,000 for three children
- +£3,500 for each additional child
- Evidence such as payslips, bank statements, or tax returns (if self-employed) is required.
- Medical Tests: Applicants from certain countries may need a tuberculosis (TB) test before applying.
Spouse and Civil Partner Visa
A Spouse/Civil Partner Visa is for individuals who are already married to or in a registered civil partnership with a British Citizen or someone with settled status. It allows applicants to live, work, and study in the UK.
- Application Process: Applications are made outside the UK via a British Consulate, Embassy, or High Commission. Successful applicants receive a visa valid for 2.5 years (with multiple entries).
- Switching in the UK: Those already in the UK on a visa valid for more than six months (including Fiancé(e) Visa holders after marriage) may switch to a Spouse/Civil Partner Visa without leaving the UK.
- Pathway to Settlement: After completing the initial period, the visa can be extended, leading to eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Requirements for a Spouse/Civil Partner Visa
- Sponsor Status: The UK partner must be a British Citizen or hold Indefinite Leave to Remain.
- Valid Marriage/Partnership: The marriage or civil partnership must be legally recognised in the UK. Documents in other languages must be officially translated.
- Age Requirement: Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
- Genuine Relationship: Applicants must prove the marriage or partnership is genuine and ongoing.
- Financial & Accommodation Requirements: Same as for Fiancé(e) visas — with a minimum income of £29,000 per year (higher if children are included).
- English Language: Most applicants must show proficiency in English, either through a language test or proof of education. Some exemptions apply.
- Proof of Residence: If applying from a third country, applicants must show they have legal residence there (e.g., visa or residence permit).
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