Understanding the UK partner visa

If you are in a genuine relationship with a British or settled person and you want to join them in the UK, a UK Partner Visa can be the route for you. This visa allows spouses, civil partners, unmarried partners who have lived together for at least two years, or fiancés/fiancées proposing marriage to relocate to the UK.

Who qualifies?

To be eligible, you must demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and subsisting. This applies whether you are married, in a civil partnership, cohabiting for two years or more, or intend to marry or form a civil partnership within six months.
Your partner, referred to as the sponsor, must be either a British citizen or have settled status in the UK.

Key requirements

• Suitability
  The Home Office will look at your conduct and character. Any criminal convictions or previous immigration issues in any country will be assessed at this stage.
• Relationship
  You must show that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. You must also intend to live together permanently in the UK.
• Financial requirement
  a. Income or savings
  The financial threshold can be met in several ways. Most applicants meet it through employment income or eligible savings.
  b. Accommodation
  You must have suitable accommodation available in the UK and intend to live there with your partner.
• English language
  You must be able to communicate in English and provide an approved English language test, unless an exemption applies.
• Immigration status
  You should not be in the UK as a visitor or with leave of six months or less, on immigration bail or in breach of immigration laws.

Important to know

Spouses, civil partners and eligible unmarried partners all fall under the same visa rules. It is not restricted to married couples only. However if you do apply as a fiancé or fiancée, there are time limits for completing your marriage or civil partnership after arrival.

If you require support with preparing your Partner visa application or would like tailored advice on your circumstances, please get in touch with our Immigration Team.