For non-UK nationals wishing to join their partner in the UK, two main visa options exist: the UK Fiancé Visa and the UK Spouse Visa. While both allow individuals to reunite with their British or settled partners, their eligibility requirements, application processes, and benefits differ significantly. This guide explores the key differences to help you decide which visa is right for you.
What is a UK Fiancé Visa?
A UK Fiancé Visa allows an engaged partner of a British citizen or settled person to enter the UK for the purpose of marriage. The visa is valid for six months, during which the couple must legally marry. After marriage, the applicant must switch to a UK Spouse Visa to stay in the UK long-term.
UK Fiancé Visa Eligibility Requirements
- The applicant must be engaged to a British citizen, Irish citizen, or someone with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- The couple must have met in person and be in a genuine relationship.
- The applicant and sponsor must intend to marry within six months of entering the UK.
- The sponsoring partner must meet the financial requirement of £18,600 per year (higher if dependent children are involved).
- The couple must have adequate accommodation in the UK.
- The applicant must prove English proficiency (A1 level CEFR).
- A Tuberculosis (TB) test is required if applicable.
Limitations of a UK Fiancé Visa
- No work rights: The applicant cannot work in the UK during the six-month visa period.
- Strict time frame: The couple must marry within six months; failure to do so may lead to visa expiration and potential deportation.
- Additional costs: The applicant must apply for a Spouse Visa after marriage, leading to extra application fees.
What is a UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa allows the married partner of a British citizen or settled person to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 2.5 years. After this period, the visa can be extended, leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.
UK Spouse Visa Eligibility Requirements
- The applicant must be legally married to a British citizen, Irish citizen, or settled person.
- The marriage must be recognized under UK law.
- The couple must have a genuine and subsisting relationship.
- The financial requirement is the same as the fiancé visa (£18,600 per year).
- Suitable accommodation in the UK must be available.
- The applicant must pass an English test (A1 level CEFR or higher).
- A Tuberculosis test is required if applicable.
Advantages of a UK Spouse Visa
- Right to work: Unlike the fiancé visa, spouse visa holders can work and study in the UK immediately.
- Longer validity: The visa lasts 30 months (2.5 years) and can be renewed.
- Path to settlement: After five years, the applicant can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
UK Fiancé Visa vs Spouse Visa: Key Differences
| Criteria | UK Fiancé Visa | UK Spouse Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | For engaged partners to marry in the UK | For legally married partners to live together in the UK |
| Validity | 6 months | 2.5 years (extendable) |
| Work Rights | No | Yes |
| Financial Requirement | £18,600 per year | £18,600 per year |
| Marriage Requirement | Must marry within 6 months | Already married |
| Visa Switching | Must switch to a spouse visa after marriage | No switching required |
| Path to ILR | Requires a spouse visa first | Eligible after 5 years |
| English Requirement | A1 level CEFR | A1 level CEFR or higher |
Which Visa Should You Choose?
Choose the UK Fiancé Visa if:
- You are not yet married but plan to marry in the UK.
- You want to enter the UK before marriage and finalize wedding arrangements.
- You do not need to work immediately upon arrival.
Choose the UK Spouse Visa if:
- You are already married to a British or settled partner.
- You want to live and work in the UK immediately.
- You want to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) sooner.
Application Process for Both Visas
Step 1: Submit an Online Application
Both fiancé and spouse visa applications start with an online submission on the UK Home Office website.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
- Fiancé Visa: ~£1,538
- Spouse Visa: ~£1,846
Step 3: Provide Biometric Data
Applicants must attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit fingerprints, photographs, and documents.
Step 4: Await the Decision
- Fiancé Visa: 8-12 weeks
- Spouse Visa: 8-12 weeks (priority services may shorten the wait time)