Applying for a UK fiancé visa allows you to join your partner in the UK with the intention of getting married within six months. This visa falls under the UK Family Visa category and is ideal for those who wish to settle in the UK after marriage.
In this guide, we will cover how to apply for a UK fiancé visa, the eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, processing time, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is a UK Fiancé Visa?
A UK fiancé visa permits non-UK nationals to enter the UK to marry their British or settled partner. It is valid for 6 months, during which the couple must legally marry. After marriage, the applicant can switch to a spouse visa, allowing them to remain in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria for a UK Fiancé Visa
To qualify for a UK fiancé visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Genuine Relationship Requirement
- You must prove that your relationship is real and ongoing.
- You must have physically met your partner before applying.
- Intention to Marry in the UK
- You must provide evidence of planned wedding arrangements within 6 months of arrival.
- Financial Requirement
- Your UK partner must earn at least £18,600 per year (or more if dependent children are included).
- Savings of £62,500 can be used if income does not meet the threshold.
- Accommodation Requirement
- You must show that you have adequate housing in the UK.
- English Language Requirement
- Applicants must pass an A1 level English test from an approved provider unless exempt.
- No Criminal Record or Immigration Violations
- You must provide a clear criminal background and comply with UK immigration rules.
How to Apply for a UK Fiancé Visa
Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
Gather all supporting documents, including:
- Valid passport
- Proof of relationship (photos, travel records, communication logs)
- Financial evidence (payslips, bank statements, tax returns)
- Accommodation proof (rental agreement, property documents)
- Wedding plans (venue booking, invitations, receipts)
- English language test certificate
- Tuberculosis (TB) test (if required for your country)
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
- Apply online through the UK government visa portal.
- Fill in accurate details about yourself and your sponsor (fiancé).
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
- The standard UK fiancé visa fee is £1,846.
- Additional costs include priority processing fees, English tests, and document translations.
Step 4: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
- After submitting the application, schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and photographs.
Step 5: Submit Supporting Documents
- Documents can be uploaded online or submitted at the biometric appointment.
- Ensure all documents are well-organized to avoid delays.
Step 6: Wait for the Decision
- Standard processing time: 12-24 weeks.
- Priority service (if available) can reduce processing time to 6 weeks.
- You will receive an email or letter with the visa decision.
Step 7: Travel to the UK and Get Married
- Upon visa approval, travel to the UK and get married within 6 months.
- After marriage, apply for a spouse visa to continue living in the UK.
UK Fiancé Visa Processing Time
The processing time depends on the country of application and whether priority services are used:
- Standard Processing: 12-24 weeks (varies based on volume and location).
- Priority Processing: 6 weeks (available in some locations for an additional fee).
- Super Priority Service: 24 hours (very limited availability and high cost).
Common Reasons for UK Fiancé Visa Rejection
- Insufficient Financial Proof – Not meeting the income threshold.
- Incomplete Relationship Evidence – Lack of proof of a genuine relationship.
- Failure to Meet English Language Requirement – Not passing the test.
- Incorrect or Missing Documents – Submitting incomplete information.
- Past Visa Refusals or Immigration Violations – Previous overstays or bans.
To avoid rejection, ensure all eligibility criteria are met and documents are complete.
UK Fiancé Visa vs. UK Spouse Visa: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | UK Fiancé Visa | UK Spouse Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To marry in the UK | To live with spouse |
| Duration | 6 months | 2.5 years (renewable) |
| Work Rights | No | Yes |
| Financial Requirement | £18,600 | £18,600 |
| Path to Settlement | Switch to Spouse Visa | Leads to ILR |
If you intend to stay in the UK after marriage, you must switch to a UK spouse visa after your wedding.
How an Immigration Solicitor Can Help
Applying for a UK fiancé visa can be challenging. An immigration solicitor can help:
- Ensure all documents are correct to avoid rejection.
- Prepare a strong application with sufficient proof.
- Provide legal advice if you face complications.
For expert guidance, contact Asher & Tomar Solicitors today!