The United Kingdom is a popular destination for couples seeking to start a life together, whether through marriage or civil partnership. For non-UK nationals engaged to British citizens or those with settled status in the UK, the Fiance Visa UK offers a legal route to enter the country and get married. This visa is designed specifically for couples who are planning to marry within six months of arrival in the UK. However, the process of applying for a fiance visa can be complex and involves several requirements.
This comprehensive guide provides essential information on the UK fiance visa, including eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, costs, and what happens after the visa is granted.
What is a Fiance Visa UK?
The Fiance Visa UK, also known as the UK marriage visa, allows a non-EEA (European Economic Area) national to enter the UK to marry or enter into a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with settled status (such as indefinite leave to remain or refugee status). This visa is valid for six months, during which the couple is expected to marry.
After the marriage takes place, the visa holder can apply for a Spouse Visa, which allows them to remain in the UK and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and even British citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria for a UK Fiance Visa
To qualify for a UK fiance visa, both the applicant and their UK-based partner must meet specific requirements. These are set by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department to ensure the relationship is genuine and that the couple can support themselves without relying on public funds.
1. Relationship Requirements
- The couple must intend to get married within six months of the visa being granted.
- Both partners must be over 18 years old.
- They must have met in person and have a genuine and subsisting relationship.
- The relationship must not be a sham or entered into solely for immigration purposes.
2. Sponsor Requirements
- The UK-based partner must be a British citizen or hold settled status in the UK.
- They must not be in any other marriage or civil partnership at the time of the application.
3. Financial Requirements
- The sponsor must have a gross annual income of at least £18,600.
- If the couple has dependent children, this threshold increases by £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.
- Savings and non-employment income can sometimes be used to meet this requirement.
4. English Language Requirement
- The applicant must prove they have a basic understanding of English (A1 level on the CEFR scale).
- This can be shown by passing an approved English language test or by being from a majority English-speaking country.
5. Accommodation Requirement
- The couple must have adequate accommodation in the UK that meets public health and safety standards.
Documents Required for a Fiance Visa UK
A successful application depends heavily on the supporting documents provided. Here’s a list of commonly required documents:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Proof of relationship (photos together, messages, call logs, etc.).
- Evidence of having met in person.
- Proof of intention to marry (wedding venue booking, notice of marriage).
- Proof of income or savings to meet financial requirements (payslips, bank statements).
- English language test certificate.
- Proof of adequate accommodation (tenancy agreement, property inspection report).
- Sponsor’s passport or proof of settled status.
All documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by certified English translations.
How to Apply for a Fiance Visa UK
Applying for a UK fiance visa involves several stages and must be done from outside the UK. The application process includes the following steps:
1. Online Application
- The application must be submitted online via the UK Government website (gov.uk).
- Choose the visa type: “Family visa: Apply as a fiancé, fiancée or proposed civil partner.”
2. Pay the Application Fee
- The fiance visa application fee is £1,846 as of 2024 (subject to change).
- This does not include other costs such as translation fees, medical exams, or legal advice.
3. Book a Biometrics Appointment
- After submitting the online application, applicants must attend a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in their country.
- Fingerprints and photographs are taken during this appointment.
4. Submit Supporting Documents
- Depending on the VAC location, documents may need to be uploaded online or submitted in person.
- Original documents are generally not returned, so it’s wise to keep copies.
Processing Time for a UK Fiance Visa
The standard processing time for a UK fiance visa is approximately 12 weeks from the date of the biometric appointment. However, delays are possible depending on individual circumstances, workload at the UKVI, or if additional documents are requested.
Applicants can pay for priority services (where available) to speed up the process, typically reducing the waiting time to 6 weeks or less.
After Receiving the Fiance Visa
Once the fiance visa is granted:
- The applicant can travel to the UK and must get married within six months.
- The visa holder cannot work or access public funds during this period.
- After the marriage or civil partnership is registered, the individual must apply for a UK Spouse Visa to remain in the country.
Switching to a Spouse Visa
The Spouse Visa allows the individual to live and work in the UK for 30 months (2.5 years) and can be extended. After five years on the spouse visa route, they may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
The application must be made before the fiance visa expires, and applicants must still meet financial and relationship requirements.
Common Reasons for Visa Refusal
UKVI may refuse fiance visa applications for a variety of reasons, including:
- Lack of evidence that the relationship is genuine.
- Failure to meet the financial requirement.
- Incomplete or fraudulent documentation.
- Inability to prove intent to marry within six months.
- Inadequate accommodation.
Applicants have the right to appeal or reapply, but it’s important to understand the reason for refusal before proceeding.
Tips for a Successful Fiance Visa Application
To maximize your chances of success:
- Be thorough: Double-check all documents and information.
- Demonstrate your relationship clearly: Include communication history, photographs, travel records, etc.
- Provide strong financial evidence: Ensure your income is stable and well-documented.
- Show intent to marry: Include a detailed wedding plan, even if it’s a civil ceremony.
- Seek legal advice if needed: An immigration solicitor can help navigate complex cases.
Conclusion
Applying for a fiance visa UK can be both exciting and stressful. It’s a significant step toward building a life with your partner in the UK, but the process is strict and requires attention to detail. By ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria, gather the correct documentation, and understand the legal process, you can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful application.
The fiance visa is not just a pathway to marriage; it’s the first legal bridge in a long-term plan toward permanent residency and possibly even citizenship. If approached correctly, it’s a rewarding start to your journey together in the United Kingdom.
