The UK Fiancé Visa, also known as a Prospective Marriage Visa, allows individuals to enter the UK to marry their British citizen or settled partner. This visa is an ideal pathway for those planning to start their lives in the UK with their partner. In this comprehensive guide from Asher & Tomar, we’ll cover all the important aspects, from eligibility to the application process.

What is a UK Fiancé Visa?

The UK Fiancé Visa enables foreign nationals to travel to the UK to marry or enter a civil partnership with a UK-based partner. Once granted, this visa is valid for six months, during which time the couple must marry. After the marriage, the foreign national can switch to a UK Spouse Visa to stay in the UK long-term.

Key Features of the UK Fiancé Visa:

• Valid for six months: You must marry or enter a civil partnership within this time.
• Does not allow work: While on a Fiancé Visa, the applicant cannot work in the UK.
• Switch to Spouse Visa: After marriage, you can apply for a Spouse Visa to remain in the UK.

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Eligibility Criteria for the UK Fiancé Visa

To successfully apply for a UK Fiancé Visa, both the applicant and their UK-based partner must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include:

1. Relationship Requirement:
   • The couple must intend to marry or enter into a civil partnership within six months.
   • They must have met in person and provide evidence of their relationship.
   • The relationship should be genuine and ongoing.
2. Financial Requirement:
   • The UK-based partner (the sponsor) must meet a minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year, or have sufficient savings.
   • If the couple has dependent children, the income threshold increases by £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.
3. Accommodation Requirement:
   • The couple must demonstrate that they have suitable accommodation in the UK.
   • The accommodation must meet the UK living standards for both the applicant and their partner.
4. English Language Requirement:
   • The applicant must prove their knowledge of the English language by passing an approved English language test at A1 level or higher, unless they are from a majority English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English.

Documents Required for a UK Fiancé Visa

The following documents must be submitted as part of the UK Fiancé Visa application:

• Valid Passport: Both the applicant and the sponsor must provide copies of their passports.
• Proof of Relationship: This can include photos, correspondence, travel records, and statements from friends and family.
• Proof of Income: Payslips, tax returns, or bank statements showing the sponsor’s income.
• Accommodation Details: A tenancy agreement, mortgage statement, or letter from the landlord.
• English Language Test Results: If applicable, results from an approved English language test.

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UK Fiancé Visa Application Process

The UK Fiancé Visa application process involves several key steps:

1. Online Application:
   • Applicants must complete the visa application form online via the UK government’s website.
   • Pay the visa fee, which is currently £1,538.
2. Submit Supporting Documents:
   • Upload all the necessary documents, including those mentioned earlier, to support your application.
3. Biometric Appointment:
   • Applicants must attend a visa application centre to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph).
4. Processing Time:
   • The UK Fiancé Visa typically takes between 2 to 3 months to process. You can also apply for the Priority Service to expedite the process, with decisions usually made within 5 working days.
5. Receive Decision:
   • If the visa is approved, you will receive a vignette in your passport, allowing you to enter the UK for six months.
   • If the visa is rejected, you will be given reasons for refusal, and you may have the option to appeal or reapply.

UK Fiancé Visa Financial Requirements

One of the most significant criteria for the UK Fiancé Visa is the financial requirement. The UK-based partner must demonstrate that they can financially support both themselves and their fiancé(e) without relying on public funds.

• Income Threshold: As mentioned earlier, the sponsor must earn at least £18,600 per year. This can be proven through employment, self-employment, or savings.
• Savings: If the sponsor does not meet the income threshold, they can rely on savings. For this, the sponsor must have at least £62,500 in savings, held for at least six months.

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What Happens After Marriage?

Once the couple has married or entered into a civil partnership, the foreign national can apply to switch to a UK Spouse Visa. This visa allows them to live and work in the UK for an initial period of 30 months, after which they can apply for an extension. After five years, they may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

To apply for a UK Spouse Visa, the couple must provide evidence of their marriage, continue to meet financial and accommodation requirements, and demonstrate that their relationship is genuine.

Common Reasons for UK Fiancé Visa Rejection

There are several reasons why a UK Fiancé Visa application might be rejected:

• Insufficient financial evidence: If the sponsor does not meet the income threshold or cannot provide adequate proof of income.
• Inadequate relationship evidence: Failing to provide convincing evidence that the relationship is genuine and ongoing.
• Incomplete application: Missing documents or incorrect information on the application form.
• English language failure: Not meeting the English language requirement or failing to provide test results.

Applicants should ensure that they submit a thorough and accurate application to avoid delays or rejections.

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Conclusion

The UK Fiancé Visa is a crucial step for couples planning to marry in the UK. By meeting the eligibility criteria, submitting the correct documents, and ensuring a complete application, you can successfully obtain this visa. At asherandtomar.co.uk, we provide expert guidance on UK visas, ensuring that your path to marriage in the UK is smooth and stress-free.