When planning to move to the United Kingdom or visit for an extended period, couples often inquire whether they can apply for a UK visa together. The process can be complex, requiring careful adherence to the UK’s immigration laws and procedures. Couples may include those married, in a civil partnership, or in a durable relationship, and considering immigration as a unit potentially simplifies the application process, if the requirements are met. Applying for a UK family visa as a couple can be beneficial as it enables both partners to remain together while abiding by UK immigration law. Specific visas, such as a spouse or partner visa, allow individuals to join or accompany their partner who is a UK resident or holds settled status. The application process involves providing proof of relationship and meeting financial requirements, among other criteria.
Understanding UK Partner Visas
UK Partner Visas allow couples to stay together in the UK, assuming they meet certain criteria. Here’s an insight into the eligibility, types of visas available, the application procedure, and language prerequisites.
Eligibility Criteria for Partner Visas
To be eligible for a partner visa in the UK, both partners must be over the age of 18. The relationship can be a marriage, civil partnership, or they must prove they have been living together in a relationship akin to a marriage for at least two years. Applications must demonstrate the relationship is genuine and that they intend to live together permanently in the UK.
Types of Partner Visas
The UK offers several types of partner visas, catering to different relationship statuses. The fiancé visa and proposed civil partner visa are for those who intend to get married or enter into a civil partnership within six months of arriving. The UK spouse visa and civil partner visa are for those already in such legally recognised union. There is also the unmarried partner visa, which requires evidence of cohabitation for two or more years. Visitors can explore a marriage visitor visa if they plan to get married or form a civil partnership in the UK but don’t plan to stay long-term.
The Application Process
The application process for a UK partner visa involves completing an application form, typically online, and providing a GWF number—a unique application identifier. Applicants are required to submit evidence supporting their eligibility and attend an appointment for biometric information. Details on how to apply are available on gov.uk. After applying, decisions are usually made within 12 weeks for out of country applications, or 8 weeks if applying within the UK.
English Language Requirements
Applicants for a UK partner visa must meet English language requirements. This typically involves passing an approved English language test in speaking and listening, unless they are from an English-speaking country or have a degree taught or researched in English. Prospective applicants should verify they have taken an English language test that is approved by UK visas and immigration.
Financial and Accommodation Requirements
When applying for a UK visa, couples must meet certain financial and accommodation requirements to demonstrate stability and adequate living arrangements. These requirements ensure that couples can sustain themselves without relying on public funds and have a suitable place to live.
Proof of Financial Stability
One must provide evidence of financial stability to meet the UK visa application criteria. As of 11 April 2024, the financial requirement for a UK spouse visa will be set at a minimum income threshold of £29,000, and is poised to increase to £38,700 by 2025. This can be met through employment income, pension, savings, or a combination. This would require a detailed assessment and you should book a consultation with out legal experts to establish the exact documents you are required to provide depending on your circumstances.
Accommodation Requirements
Couples must also provide proof of adequate accommodation. The living arrangements must meet the following standards:
- Be owned or exclusively occupied by the couple.
- Secured without recourse to public assistance.
- Should not be overcrowded or breach public health regulations.
Proof typically involves a current tenancy agreement or mortgage statements to confirm the property details, combined with recent utility bills to show continuous residence. Evidence that the couple intends to live together permanently in the UK is also necessary.
Supporting Documents and Proofs
When applying for a UK visa as a couple, the provision of accurate and pertinent supporting documents is crucial. These documents serve to verify the identity and relationship status of the applicants.
Required Documents for Visa Application
A comprehensive set of documents is essential for applicants to prove their eligibility and intent. Applicants must provide:
- A valid passport with at least one blank page for the visa.
- Recent passport-sized photographs adhering to the UK visa photo requirements.
- Evidence of financial means to support themselves during their stay.
- Details of accommodation and return travel plans.
- Proof of payment of the visa application fee.
Additionally, the UK government’s guidance on visas highlights the importance of submitting extensive and verifiable supporting documents.
Demonstrating a Genuine Relationship
Evidence of a genuine relationship includes but is not limited to:
- Marriage or civil partnership certificates to confirm the legal recognition of the relationship.
- Shared financial responsibilities, like bank statements from a joint bank account.
- Tenancy agreements, utility bills or council tax bills to showcase an intend to live together.
- Letters from doctors or dentists, confirming the same address which substantiates the commitment and stability of the relationship.
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