The UK Fiancé Visa is a type of family visa that allows non-British nationals to come to the UK to marry or enter into a civil partnership with their British citizen or settled partner. This visa is designed for couples who are engaged and intend to get married within six months of the fiancé's arrival in the UK. After marriage, the visa holder can apply to switch to a spouse visa to continue living in the UK. This guide covers the eligibility criteria, application process, and important considerations for the UK Fiancé Visa.
What is the UK Fiancé Visa?
The Fiancé Visa uk enables a non-UK resident to enter the UK for the purpose of marrying their British citizen or settled partner. The visa is valid for six months, during which the couple is expected to marry or enter into a civil partnership. Unlike other visas, the Fiancé Visa does not permit the holder to work in the UK during the six-month period. After marriage, the individual can apply to switch to a UK Spouse Visa, which will allow them to live, work, and study in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria for the UK Fiancé Visa
To be eligible for the UK Fiancé Visa, both the applicant and their UK-based partner must meet several key criteria:
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Intention to Marry:
- The couple must plan to marry or enter into a civil partnership within six months of the applicant’s arrival in the UK.
- Evidence of wedding arrangements, such as a venue booking or other preparations, may be required to demonstrate this intention.
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Genuine and Subsisting Relationship:
- The relationship must be genuine and ongoing. The couple must have met in person and intend to live together permanently after marriage.
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Financial Requirement:
- The UK-based partner must have an annual income of at least £18,600. This amount increases if there are dependent children involved.
- Income can come from employment, self-employment, savings, or a combination of these. If the income is below the threshold, savings of £62,500 can be used to meet the financial requirement.
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English Language Requirement:
- The applicant must demonstrate English proficiency by passing an approved English language test at the A1 level or by holding a degree taught in English.
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Accommodation Requirement:
- The couple must have adequate accommodation in the UK, where they can live together after the marriage without relying on public funds.
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Suitability Requirements:
- The applicant must pass a criminal background check and must not have any immigration violations that would impact their eligibility.
Application Process for the UK Fiancé Visa
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Online Application: The process begins by completing the online application form and paying the appropriate visa fee.
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Document Submission: Applicants must submit a range of documents to prove their relationship, financial stability, accommodation, and English language proficiency.
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Biometric Appointment: The applicant will need to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
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Processing Time: The processing time for the UK Fiancé Visa typically ranges from 8 to 12 weeks, but it can take longer depending on the complexity of the case and the volume of applications.
Switching to a UK Spouse Visa
After the couple is married or enters into a civil partnership, the Fiancé Visa holder must apply to switch to a UK Spouse Visa if they wish to remain in the UK. The Spouse Visa will allow them to live, work, and study in the UK for an initial period of 30 months, with the possibility of extending it further. After five years of residency on a Spouse Visa, the individual can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and, eventually, British citizenship.
Key Considerations
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No Work Rights: The Fiancé Visa does not permit the holder to work in the UK. Employment is only allowed once the visa holder has switched to a Spouse Visa.
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Marriage Within Six Months: The couple must marry or enter into a civil partnership within the six-month validity period of the Fiancé Visa. Failure to do so may result in the visa holder needing to leave the UK.
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Visa Extension: The Fiancé Visa cannot be extended. If the couple does not marry within six months, the visa holder must leave the UK and reapply.
Conclusion
The UK Fiancé Visa provides a vital route for couples who wish to marry and build their lives together in the UK. While the application process can be complex and requires thorough preparation, meeting the eligibility criteria and submitting a well-documented application can lead to successful approval. Once married, the visa holder can transition to a Spouse Visa, paving the way for long-term residency and eventually British citizenship. This visa is an essential first step for couples committed to starting their journey together in the UK.