Introduction

If you’re planning to marry your partner in the UK and live together after your wedding, the UK Fiancé Visa is an essential step in the immigration process. The Fiancé Visa allows you to enter the UK with the intention of getting married within six months, but it does not directly lead to permanent residency. However, it is the first step toward obtaining a UK Spouse Visa, which can eventually lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Here’s a comprehensive guide to applying for a UK Fiancé Visa and meeting the necessary requirements.

What is the UK Fiancé Visa?

The UK Fiancé Visa is for individuals who are engaged to:

• A British or Irish citizen,
• Someone who has settled or pre-settled status in the UK,
• Or those with specific visas like the Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker Visa, or refugees.

This visa allows you to enter the UK to marry your partner within six months.
Although the Fiancé Visa itself does not grant permanent residency, it is a pathway to a Spouse Visa after marriage, which could lead to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after five years of residency in the UK.

UK Fiancé Visa Requirements

General Requirements

1. Relationship Status: Your partner must either be a British or Irish citizen, have indefinite leave to remain (ILR), or hold specific statuses (e.g., pre-settled, refugee, etc.).
2. Age: Both you and your partner must be over 18.
3. Proof of Meeting: You must have met your partner in person.
4. Genuine Relationship: You need to prove that your relationship is genuine, subsisting, and that you both plan to marry within six months of your arrival.
5. Financial Requirements: You must show that you are financially self-sufficient and will not rely on public funds.
6. Accommodation: You must have a place to live in the UK, whether alone or with dependents.
7. English Proficiency: You must meet the required level of English language skills.

Sponsorship Requirements

To apply for a UK Fiancé Visa, your partner must be one of the following:

• A British or Irish citizen.
• A person with indefinite leave to remain (settled status) in the UK.
• A person with pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
• A refugee or someone with humanitarian protection status in the UK.
• A person with Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker status under the ECAA Agreement.

Relationship Criteria

Eligibility Guidelines

1. Prohibited Degree of Relationship: You and your partner must not be closely related (e.g., siblings, parent-child).
2. Met in Person: You must provide proof that you’ve met your partner face-to-face.
3. Genuine and Ongoing Relationship: You must demonstrate that your relationship is authentic, subsisting, and ongoing.
4. Marriage Intent: Your intention to marry in the UK within six months must be clear.

Documents Required to Prove a Genuine Relationship

• Photographs: Pictures showing you and your partner together.
• Messages: Text messages or letters that highlight your communication.
• Travel History: Flight tickets or other documents showing that you’ve met in person and spent time together.
• Living Arrangements: Joint bills, rent agreements, or evidence of cohabitation.

Each relationship is unique, so the evidence you provide should reflect your specific situation.

Financial and Accommodation Requirements

Key Points

1. Income Requirement: The financial threshold for a Fiancé Visa is typically £18,600 per year. Additional funds are required if you have children.
2. Accommodation: You must provide proof of suitable accommodation for you and any dependents in the UK.

Application Process for a UK Fiancé Visa

1. Apply from Outside the UK: Submit your application from outside the UK and attend an interview at a visa application center.
2. Pay the Fees: Pay the visa fee and any additional costs for biometric information and healthcare surcharge.
3. Wait for a Decision: Processing times usually take 2-3 months, though this may vary.
4. Fiancé Visa Validity: Once approved, the Fiancé Visa is valid for six months.

After Marriage: Moving to a Spouse Visa

Once you marry in the UK, you can switch from the Fiancé Visa to a Spouse Visa.

• Duration: The Spouse Visa allows you to stay in the UK for two years.
• Next Step: After two years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Why Choose Temple Gate Solicitors for Your Fiancé Visa Application?

At Temple Gate Solicitors, our team of immigration experts offers personalized advice for every aspect of your UK Fiancé Visa application. We guide you through the complex process, help gather the necessary documentation, and ensure that your application has the best chance of success.

Contact Us

For a consultation with our expert immigration team:

• Phone: +44 (0) 207 183 8043
• Email: info@templegatesolicitors.com
• Website: www.templegatesolicitors.com

Conclusion

The UK Fiancé Visa is a crucial first step for individuals wishing to marry a UK citizen or settled partner. By meeting the necessary requirements and providing sufficient evidence of your relationship, you can achieve your goal of getting married in the UK and building a life together.

For expert immigration advice and support throughout the application process, trust Temple Gate Solicitors to guide you every step of the way.