If you’re planning to marry your British partner in the UK, the UK fiancé visa is the perfect route. This visa allows you to enter the UK for six months to get married and then apply for a spouse visa to stay longer. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for uk fiance visa.
Understanding the UK Fiancé Visa
The UK fiancé visa is designed for non-UK residents who intend to marry their British or settled partner within six months of arriving in the UK. This visa is different from the spouse visa, as it is specifically for those who are not yet married but plan to marry shortly after arrival.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a UK fiancé visa, you must meet several requirements:
1. Relationship Requirements:
- You must have met your partner in person.
- You must be able to prove that your relationship is genuine and that you intend to get married within six months of your arrival in the UK.
- Both you and your partner must be free to marry (i.e., single, divorced, or widowed).
2. Financial Requirements:
- Your partner must meet a minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year or have sufficient savings to support you.
- Acceptable income sources include earnings from employment or self-employment, pension, and savings.
3. Accommodation:
- You must have adequate accommodation arranged in the UK where you and your partner can live without relying on public funds.
4. English Language Requirement:
- You must demonstrate English language proficiency by passing an approved English language test at the A1 level or higher, or by having an academic qualification that was taught in English.
Application Process
1. Prepare Your Documents:
- Passport and travel documents.
- Proof of your relationship (e.g., photos, communication records, engagement details).
- Financial evidence (e.g., bank statements, payslips).
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Details of your accommodation in the UK.
2. Complete the Online Application Form:
- Apply online through the official UK government website. You will need to fill out the application form and pay the required fee.
3. Pay the Healthcare Surcharge:
- As part of your application, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
4. Biometric Appointment:
- Schedule and attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center to provide your fingerprints, photograph, and signature.
5. Submit Your Application:
- After completing the application form and biometric appointment, submit your supporting documents either online or at the visa application center.
6. Wait for a Decision:
- Processing times vary, but it generally takes about 12 weeks to receive a decision. Priority services are available for faster processing at an additional cost.
After Arrival in the UK
Once your UK fiancé visa is approved, you will receive a vignette (a sticker in your passport) valid for six months, which allows you to enter the UK. During this time, you must get married and then apply for a spouse visa to extend your stay.
Conclusion
Applying for a UK fiancé visa can be a meticulous process, but with thorough preparation and understanding of the requirements, you can successfully join your partner in the UK and begin your life together. Make sure to gather all necessary documents, meet all eligibility criteria, and follow the application process closely to ensure a smooth transition.