UK Marriage Visa: Complete Guide For Spouses And Partners

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UK Marriage Visa: Complete Guide For Spouses And Partners

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Types of UK Marriage and Partner Visas

1. Spouse Visa (For Married or Civil Partners)

  • Duration: 30 to 33 months (extendable to 5 years).
  • Benefits: You can work, study, and access the NHS.
  • Pathway: Eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
  • Proof of a genuine marriage or civil partnership (documents, photos, joint bills).
  • Minimum household income of £29,000 per year.
  • Suitable housing that meets UK living standards.
  • Proof of English language ability (CEFR A1 or above).

2. Unmarried Partner Visa (For Long-Term Relationships)

  • Rights: Same as Spouse Visa, full work and study rights.
  • Proof Needed: Evidence of living together (joint rental agreements, utility bills, or shared finances).
  • Additional Requirement: Must meet the same financial and English test rules as married couples.

3. Fiancé(e) Visa (For Couples Planning to Marry in the UK)

  • Duration: 6 months (non-extendable).
  • Restrictions: No right to work or access public funds.
  • Next Step: Must switch to a Spouse Visa after marriage.
  • Intention to marry within 6 months.
  • Proof of relationship and wedding plans (venue booking, registry appointment).
  • Must meet financial, housing, and language requirements.

Key Eligibility Requirements

Proving a Genuine Relationship

  • Marriage or civil partnership certificates.
  • Photos together from different stages of the relationship.
  • Joint tenancy agreements, bank accounts, or shared bills.
  • Travel records showing visits.
  • Communication logs (emails, messages, call records).

Financial Requirements

  • Salary from employment.
  • Self-employment income.
  • Pension funds.
  • Rental income, dividends, or savings.

Accommodation

  • Tenancy agreements.
  • Mortgage documents.
  • Property inspection reports.

English Language Requirement

  • First application: CEFR A1.
  • Extension: CEFR A2.
  • Settlement (ILR): CEFR B1.

Other General Rules

  • Both partners must be over 18.
  • A tuberculosis (TB) test is required for applicants from certain countries.
  • No serious criminal records or immigration violations.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Prepare Documents

  • Passports and marriage/partnership certificates.
  • Proof of relationship (photos, chats, joint accounts).
  • Financial documents (payslips, bank statements, tax returns).
  • Proof of accommodation.
  • English language test results.

Apply Online

  • Submit your application via GOV.UK.
  • Pay visa fee: £1,846 (outside UK) or £1,048 (inside UK).
  • Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year.

Attend Biometrics Appointment

  • Fingerprints.
  • Facial photographs.
  • Supporting documents for verification.

Submit and Track Application

Priority Services (Optional)

  • Standard: 12 weeks.
  • Priority (+£500): 6 weeks.
  • Super Priority (+£1,000): Next working day.

Visa Approval & Travel

  • Approved applicants get a vignette (30-day entry sticker) in their passport.
  • Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arriving in the UK.

Pathway to Settlement and Citizenship

  • Extension: After 30 to 33 months, renew your visa by proving continued relationship and financial stability. This step is crucial, as missing documents or not meeting requirements could delay your journey.
  • Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Eligible after 5 years in the UK (excluding time on a Fiancé(e) Visa). ILR grants you the right to live and work in the UK without immigration restrictions.
  • Citizenship: After ILR, you can apply for British citizenship, often possible after 3 years if married to a UK citizen. Citizenship allows you to fully integrate, access benefits, and even obtain a British passport.