UK Fiancé Visa

The UK Fiancé Visa is a crucial step for individuals planning to marry British or Irish citizens, those settled in the UK, or individuals with specific visa statuses. It provides the opportunity to enter the UK and marry within six months of arrival. While it doesn’t lead directly to settlement, it opens the pathway to the Spouse visa, potentially leading to indefinite leave to remain after five years. This detailed guide aims to provide insights into the intricate requirements and processes associated with the UK Fiancé Visa.

Requirements for a UK Fiancé Visa

To initiate the application process, one must meet several stringent criteria. The sponsoring partner must be British, Irish, settled in the UK, possess pre-settled status, hold a Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker visa, or have refugee status or humanitarian protection. Both partners must be over 18, having met in person, and their relationship should be genuine and subsisting.

Sponsoring Partner’s Status

A critical aspect is the status of the sponsoring partner, who must meet specific criteria such as being a British or Irish citizen, holding indefinite leave to remain, pre-settled status, or other specified statuses. These conditions ensure a stable foundation for the Fiancé Visa application.

Minimum Age Requirement

Another essential criterion is that both partners must be over 18 at the time of submitting the Fiancé Visa application. This age requirement is a fundamental aspect to consider for eligible candidates.

Relationship Criteria

Navigating the relationship criteria involves avoiding prohibited degrees of relationship, providing evidence of a face-to-face meeting, and demonstrating a genuine and subsisting relationship. Proving shared responsibilities, financial ties, and future plans is crucial to overcoming any doubts the Home Office may have.

Documents for a Genuine and Subsisting Relationship

The Home Office requires substantial evidence of a genuine and subsisting relationship. This includes proof of regular contact, affection, cohabitation, shared responsibilities, and future plans. Expert Immigration Solicitors can guide applicants on the specific documents needed, tailored to individual circumstances.

Intention to Marry and Previous Relationship Status

Applicants must not only have a genuine relationship but also an intention to marry within six months of entering the UK. Proving wedding plans and confirming freedom from previous marriages through legal documentation is essential for a successful Fiancé Visa application.

Commitment to Permanent Residence

Demonstrating the intention to live together permanently in the UK is vital. This commitment should be evident from the initial Fiancé Visa application stage, with clarity on living arrangements and the expectation of limited time spent overseas.

Financial Requirement for a UK Fiancé Visa

Meeting the financial threshold is crucial, with the sponsoring partner needing a current annual income of at least £18,600, plus additional amounts for dependent children. It is important to note, this figure will increase in increments. Initially to £29,000 on 11 April 2024; to around £34,500 at an unspecified time later in 2024; and finally to around £38,700 “by early 2025”.

Complex rules govern this, making it advisable to seek advice from our expert Immigration Solicitors.

Accommodation Requirement

Ensuring adequate, exclusive, and non-publicly funded accommodation is available is a key component of the Fiancé Visa application. Providing evidence of legal entitlement to occupy the property is crucial for a successful application.

English Language Requirement

Meeting the English language requirement, typically at CEFR level A1 for entry clearance, is mandatory. Exemptions apply for specific circumstances, and failure to meet this requirement can lead to visa refusal.

UK Fiancé Visa Supporting Documents Checklist

The most common reason for visa refusal is inadequate supporting documentation. Generic checklists may not suffice, emphasising the importance of seeking guidance from our expert Immigration Solicitors who can tailor advice based on individual circumstances.

Contact our specialist team for advice on specific documents which are required in support of your fiancé visa application.

Application Fees and Processing Times

Understanding the financial aspect involves being aware of the application fees. The Home Office application fee for a UK Fiancé Visa submitted outside the UK is £1,846. Processing times vary, with standard processing taking between 2-3 months.

Duration of UK Fiancé Visa

A successfully granted Fiancé Visa provides an initial validity of six months. After the wedding, applicants can switch to the Spouse category without leaving the UK. Further extensions are required every 30 months, eventually leading to eligibility for indefinite leave to remain after five years.

Employment Restrictions

Fiancé Visa holders are not permitted to work in the UK, and understanding these restrictions is crucial for applicants planning their stay.

Fiancé Visa FAQs

QuestionAnswer
Why choose expert Immigration Solicitors in London for my Fiancé Visa application?Our leading London Law Firm specialises in Fiancé Visa applications, offering personalised advice to ensure documentation meets specific requirements, reducing the risk of refusal.
Can I visit the UK while my Fiancé Visa is being processed?Unfortunately, Fiancé Visa applications can only be made from outside the UK. The Super Priority Service is not available for new applications, but existing applicants can upgrade to a Priority Service.
What happens after my Fiancé Visa is granted?Once granted, the Fiancé Visa is valid for six months. After marriage, applicants can switch to the Spouse category without leaving the UK, leading to further extensions and eventual eligibility for indefinite leave to remain.
What is the cost of the UK Fiancé Visa application?The Home Office application fee for a UK Fiancé Visa submitted outside the UK is £1,846. It’s essential to be aware of this financial aspect when planning your visa application.
Can I work in the UK with a Fiancé Visa?No, Fiancé Visa holders are not permitted to work in the UK. The primary purpose of this visa is to facilitate the process of getting married within six months of entering the UK.
How long does it take to process a UK Fiancé Visa?The standard processing time for a Fiancé Visa application submitted outside the UK is 2-3 months. There are priority services available for existing applicants, allowing for faster processing times.
What documents are required for a successful Fiancé Visa application?The required documents vary based on individual circumstances. However, common documents include proof of relationship, financial stability, accommodation details, and meeting the English language requirement. Seeking advice from expert Immigration Solicitors can ensure you provide the right documents tailored to your case.
Can I visit the UK while waiting for my Fiancé Visa to be processed?Unfortunately, Fiancé Visa applications can only be made from outside the UK. As a result, attempting to enter the UK before receiving a decision on your application may result in you being denied entry and made to return to the country you traveled from.
How long is a UK Fiancé Visa valid?If your application for a UK Fiancé Visa is successful, the visa is initially valid for six months. After your wedding, you can then apply to switch into the Spouse category without leaving the UK.
Are there exemptions to the English language requirement for a Fiancé Visa?Exemptions from the English language requirement may apply if you are over the age of 65, have a physical or mental disability preventing language proficiency, are from a majority English speaking country (listed on the gov site) or if exceptional circumstances make it impossible to satisfy the English language requirement before entering the UK.
Can I rely on cash savings to meet the financial requirement for a Fiancé Visa?Yes, cash savings can be used to satisfy the financial requirement, provided they are held by your partner and/or yourself for at least six months. However, it’s crucial to understand the specific rules and seek advice from expert Immigration Solicitors to ensure compliance.
What happens if my Fiancé Visa application is refused?If your Fiancé Visa application is refused, the appeals process can take considerable time. Seeking advice from our Immigration Solicitors during the application process can help minimise the risk of refusal.
Can I apply for indefinite leave to remain after a Fiancé Visa?Yes, after switching to a spouse visa and spending five years in the UK as the Spouse of a British citizen or settled person, you become eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain. This marks the culmination of the journey initiated by the Fiancé Visa. It is important to note, time spent on the fiancé visa does not count towards the 5 years to settlement.

Why Choose Our Leading London Law Firm?

When navigating the intricate UK Fiancé Visa process in 2024, it’s crucial to have our expert Immigration Solicitors by your side. Our London Law Firm boasts a team of specialists dedicated to ensuring a smooth application process:

  1. Tailored Advice: Our immigration team provides personalised advice, steering away from generic lists and focusing on your unique circumstances.
  2. Financial Requirement Expertise: Understanding the complexities of financial requirements is crucial. Our experts guide you through the intricacies, preventing common pitfalls leading to visa refusals.
  3. Documentary Checks: The Immigration Rules demand stringent documentation. Rely on our team to assess and verify your documents for compliance, reducing the risk of refusal.
  4. Proven Success: With a track record of successful Fiancé Visa applications, our team understands the nuanced requirements, offering insights to enhance your chances of approval.

Successful Fiancé visa application with our immigration solicitors in London

Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your prospects of submitting a visa application before your application even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation and submission of a Fiancé visa application and ensure that you meet all the requirements under the Immigration Rules.

Our offices are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients.  We are minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.

Preparation is the key to successful immigration applications. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation to discuss Fiancé visa application.

Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.

Call Now Button search previous next tag category expand menu location phone mail time cart zoom edit close