Fiancé Visa UK Requirements and Application Guide 2024

So far in 2024, the UK Home Office has granted 80,000 family-related visas which is a 22% increase compared to the previous year. The UK Fiancé Visa is designed for individuals intending to marry their British, Irish or a settled person in the UK. Your partner can also be from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and have pre-settled status – they must have started living in the UK before 1 January 2021 or have a Turkish Businessperson visa or Turkish Worker visa. They can also have protection status (leave to remain as a refugee, permission to stay as a refugee or a person with humanitarian protection). Finally, they may also have permission to stay in the UK as a stateless person.

The UK Fiancé Visa, also known as the Fiancée Visa, Proposed Civil Partner Visa, or Engagement Visa, is a component of the family visa scheme. This visa allows you to enter the UK for up to six months to get married or enter into a civil partnership. To qualify, you must meet specific requirements, including proving your relationship is genuine and subsisting, and demonstrating your intention to marry within the visa period. Additionally, you must meet financial criteria, providing evidence that your partner can support you without recourse to public funds. During your stay, you are not permitted to work, but you can switch to a Spouse Visa once married, allowing you to live and work in the UK.

Proof of Genuine Relationship

You must provide evidence of one of the following:

• You are in a civil partnership or marriage recognized in the UK.
• You have been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years at the time of your application.
• You are a fiancé, fiancée, or proposed civil partner, and you plan to marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within 6 months of your arrival.
• You have been in a relationship for at least 2 years at the time of your application but cannot live together due to circumstances such as work, study, or cultural reasons.

How to Prove Your Relationship

Submit evidence that:

• Is issued by the government, a bank, landlord, utility provider, or medical professional.
• Confirms your relationship with your partner, such as living together, sharing expenses, or being married or in a civil partnership.
• The evidence must be less than four years old.

Acceptable documents include:

• A marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate.
• A tenancy agreement, utility bills, or council tax bills showing you live together or share bills.
• A bank statement from a joint account or indicating you live at the same address.
• A letter from a doctor or dentist confirming your shared address.

If you lack these, consider providing:

• One-off bills like vet fees or home repair costs.
• Letters confirming both of you are on the voting register at the same address.
• Student finance paperwork showing the same address.

If You Do Not Live Together

If work, study, or cultural reasons prevent cohabitation, demonstrate ongoing commitment by showing evidence that you:

• Communicate regularly.
• Support each other financially.
• Care for any shared children.
• Spend time together, such as holidays or events.

UK Fiance Visa requirements

To qualify for a UK Fiancé Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Age Requirement: Both you and your partner must be over 18 years old.
2. Partner’s Status: Your partner must be a British citizen or have settled status in the UK, such as Indefinite Leave to Remain or EU Settled Status.
3. Intention to Marry: You must intend to marry or enter into a civil partnership within six months of arriving in the UK.
4. Financial Requirement: Your partner must demonstrate an annual income of at least £29,000 or sufficient savings to support you without relying on public funds.
5. Proof of Relationship: Provide evidence of your genuine relationship, such as photographs, communication records, and joint travel plans.
6. Accommodation: Suitable accommodation must be arranged for your stay in the UK.
7. English Language Proficiency: Pass a valid English language proficiency test unless exempt.

Fiance Visa Finacial Requirements

To meet the financial requirements for a UK Fiancé Visa, you and your partner typically need to demonstrate a combined annual income of at least £29,000. This is known as the ‘minimum income requirement.’ The requirements may vary if your partner receives certain disability or carer’s benefits, or if you first applied as a partner before 11 April 2024 and are now extending that visa, including if you initially applied as a fiancé, fiancée, or proposed civil partner.

How you prove your income will depend on its source. You might be able to use savings instead of income to meet this requirement. Detailed documentation, such as bank statements, payslips, and employment letters, will be necessary to verify your financial standing.

Ensuring you meet these financial criteria is crucial for the success of your visa application. For more information on how to fulfill these requirements, please refer to our comprehensive guide on Fiancé Visa financial requirements.

You are exempt from meeting the minimum income requirement if your partner receives any of the following benefits:

Adult Disability Payment

Disability Living Allowance

Severe Disablement Allowance

Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit

Attendance Allowance

Carer’s Allowance

Personal Independence Payment

Armed Forces Independence Payment or Guaranteed Income Payment under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme

Constant Attendance Allowance, Mobility Supplement, or War Disablement Pension under the War Pensions Scheme

Police Injury Pension

Child Disability Payment

Proof of Income or Savings

To meet the financial requirements for the type of family visa you’re applying for, you need to demonstrate sufficient income. This can be based on your income, the income of the family member you’re joining in the UK, or a combination of both.

For example, if you’re applying as a partner, you’ll need to prove the combined UK income of you and your partner. If you’re applying as a child, you’ll need to show the income of the parent(s) you’re joining.

Income can include:

• Employment income before tax and National Insurance (from P60 or payslips) – only UK-earned income can be used.
• Self-employment income or income as a director of a UK limited company, shown on a Self Assessment tax return.
• Cash savings above £16,000.
• Pension income.
• Non-work income, such as property rentals or dividends.

For self-employed applicants, income should be based on earnings from the last 6 months or more, counting back from the application date.

You must provide proof of income with your application. If you or your family member are employed, this could include:

• Bank statements showing income.
• 6 months of payslips, counting back from the application date.
• A dated letter from an employer on headed paper, confirming employment, job title, duration of employment, contract type, earnings before tax and National Insurance, length of time receiving the current salary, and authenticity of payslips.

Additional guidance is required if:

• Income is from non-employment sources, such as a limited company, savings, or a pension.
• Maternity or paternity leave was taken in the last 6 months.
• You want to combine different income sources.

Specific document requirements will be provided when you apply online.

UK Fiance Visa Required Documents

When applying, you’ll need to have information and evidence ready for yourself and any dependants applying with you.

You’ll need to provide:

• All your names
• Your date of birth
• Your current passport or valid travel ID
• Copies of the photo page and any visa or entry stamps in your previous passports
• A copy of your biometric residence permit, if you have one
• Details of any previous immigration applications you’ve made
• Details of any criminal convictions
• Your National Insurance number, if you have one
• Your parents’ date of birth and nationality if applying from outside the UK
• Your tuberculosis test results if required for your country
• A certified translation of any document not in English or Welsh
• Prove your knowledge of English
• Provide proof of finances, unless applying based on private life
• You will need an email address to apply online.

Ensure you have a blank page in your passport for the visa if applying from outside the UK. Also, depending on your situation, you might need to provide additional documents, such as a sponsorship form from a family member in the UK.

Your Partner’s Details

If you have a partner, you’ll need to provide their:

• Name
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport details
• Right to be in the UK (e.g., British citizenship)

Additionally, you’ll need to give information about:

• Previous marriages, civil partnerships, or children your partner had
• Proof of any previous marriages ending (e.g., a divorce certificate)
• Anyone your partner financially supports, such as their parents

English Language Requirement for UK Fiance Visa

You don’t need to prove your knowledge of English or take a test if:

• You’re applying as a child
• You’re applying as an adult being cared for by a relative
• You’ve been in the UK on a family visa for 5 years and are extending it as a partner or parent
• You’re over 65
• You have a physical or mental condition that prevents you from meeting the requirement

Additionally, you won’t need to prove your knowledge of English if you’re a national of Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, British overseas territories, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Malta, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, or the USA. However, you can also demonstrate your knowledge of English by either providing an academic qualification or taking a test.

Cost of UK Fiance Visa

The cost varies based on whom you are joining and where you apply.

• If applying from outside the UK to join your partner, parent, or child: £1,846
• If applying from within the UK to join your partner, parent, or child: £1,258

Healthcare Surcharge

You may be required to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. The costs are as follows:

£5,175 for a stay of 5 years

£2,587.50 for a stay of 2 years and 6 months

£3,105 for a stay of 2 years and 9 months

How to Apply for a UK Fiance Visa

The UK Fiance Visa application process is done online through the Home Office website. Here are the steps:

• Verify your eligibility for a Fiance Visa in the UK.
• Gather the necessary documents to prove your eligibility
• Fill out the online application form and pay the application fee
• Upload the required supporting documents.
• Schedule a biometric appointment to have your fingerprints and photo taken.
• Attend an interview if invited.
• Wait for the outcome of your application

Difference Between UK Fiance Visa and Spouse Visa

Here’s a detailed comparison of the UK Fiance Visa versus the Spouse Visa:

• Fiance Visa:
• Purpose: Allows you to come to the UK to marry or enter into a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK.
• Validity: 6 months.
• Requirement: You must marry or enter into a civil partnership within this period.
• Eligibility: Must be engaged to a British citizen or settled person and meet specific financial and relationship criteria.
• Spouse Visa:
• Purpose: For those already married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled person.
• Validity: 2.5 years, with the option to extend.
• Benefits: Allows you to live, work, and study in the UK.
• Eligibility: Must provide evidence of a genuine relationship and meet financial requirements.

For further details, please refer to the dedicated article on our website.

How to go from Fiance Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain

Transitioning from a Fiancé Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK involves several key steps. Initially, after entering the UK on a Fiancé Visa, you must marry or enter into a civil partnership with your British citizen or settled partner within the 6-month validity period. Once married or in a civil partnership, you will need to switch to a Spouse Visa, which is valid for 2.5 years.

To qualify for ILR, you must have lived in the UK on a Spouse Visa for a total of 5 years. During this period, you need to meet specific residency and financial requirements. Additionally, you must pass the Life in the UK Test and prove your English language proficiency.

Reasons for UK Fiance Visa Rejection

Here’s a list of common reasons for UK Fiancé Visa rejection and how to address them:

• Insufficient Evidence of Relationship:
• Lack of proof of shared financial responsibilities or living arrangements.
• Ensure you provide strong documentation such as joint bills or a marriage certificate.

• Financial Requirements Not Met:
• Failure to meet the minimum income threshold or provide adequate savings.
• Demonstrate your financial stability with bank statements, payslips, or evidence of savings.

• Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation:
• Missing paperwork or errors in the application.
• Double-check all documents and ensure they are complete and accurate.

• Consulting an Immigration Expert:
• Seek professional advice to strengthen your application and address any issues.

UK Fiance Visa Refusal

If your UK Fiancé Visa application has been refused, it’s crucial to understand your next steps to address the refusal effectively. Begin by carefully reviewing the refusal notice to identify the specific reasons for the rejection. Common reasons include insufficient evidence of your relationship, failure to meet financial requirements, or incomplete documentation.

Once you have identified the issues, you can either appeal the decision or submit a new application. If appealing, ensure that you provide additional evidence or clarification that addresses the reasons for the refusal. When reapplying, rectify any issues noted in the previous application and gather stronger supporting documentation.

Consider consulting an immigration expert to help you navigate the appeals process or prepare a new application. For detailed advice and support, refer to the comprehensive guide on our website to understand your options and strengthen your application.

Frequently Asked Questions about UK Fiance Visa

How long does it take to get a fiance visa in the UK?

The processing time for a UK Fiancé(e) Visa typically ranges from 8 to 12 weeks from the date of your application. This duration can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your case, the volume of applications being processed, and any additional documentation or checks required. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date to accommodate potential delays. Ensure all required documents are submitted accurately to avoid unnecessary delays.

Who is eligible for a fiance visa in the UK?

To be eligible for a UK Fiancé(e) Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be engaged to a British citizen, a person with indefinite leave to remain, or a person with settled status in the UK.
• Intend to marry or enter into a civil partnership within 6 months of arriving in the UK.
• Demonstrate that you and your partner have met in person and can provide proof of your relationship.
• Meet the financial requirement, typically showing a combined income of at least £29,000 per year.
• Have a suitable accommodation arrangement.

Which is better fiance visa or marriage visa UK?

The choice between a Fiancé(e) Visa and a Marriage Visa in the UK depends on your situation:

• Fiancé(e) Visa: Ideal if you intend to marry or enter into a civil partnership within 6 months of arriving in the UK. This visa allows you to live in the UK while preparing for your wedding. It’s suitable for those who have not yet married but plan to do so soon.
• Marriage Visa: Suitable if you are already married or in a civil partnership. This visa allows you to live in the UK with your spouse or partner.

Choosing the right visa depends on your current relationship status and plans.

Can I bring my fiancé to the UK to get married?

Yes, you can bring your fiancé to the UK to get married by applying for a Fiancé(e) Visa. This visa allows your fiancé to enter the UK to marry you within 6 months of arrival. To qualify, you must both be over 18, prove that you intend to marry or enter into a civil partnership, and meet the financial and accommodation requirements. Your fiancé will need to demonstrate that they can support themselves without recourse to public funds. After marriage, your spouse can apply for a Spouse Visa to continue living in the UK. Ensure all documentation and requirements are thoroughly met for a smooth application process.

Is there an interview for a UK fiance visa?

Yes, an interview may be part of the UK Fiancé(e) Visa application process. While not always required, it can be requested by the Home Office to verify the authenticity of your relationship. The interview typically involves questions about your relationship history, plans for marriage, and your partner’s background. It’s essential to prepare thoroughly by reviewing your application details and providing consistent, honest answers. The goal of the interview is to ensure that the relationship is genuine and that both parties meet the visa requirements. Check the specific guidelines provided during your application for any additional instructions.

Can you rent on a fiance visa in the UK?

Yes, you can rent property in the UK on a Fiancé(e) Visa. This visa allows you to live in the UK for up to 6 months with the intention of marrying your partner. Renting a property involves providing evidence of your visa status, financial means, and references to the landlord or letting agency. Ensure you meet the financial requirements and can demonstrate your ability to pay rent. Be aware that your Fiancé(e) Visa status will be subject to the conditions outlined in your visa, including the requirement to marry within the visa’s validity period.

What documents are needed for a fiance visa?

• Your current passport or valid travel ID
• Copies of the photo page and any visa or entry stamps in your previous passports
• A copy of your biometric residence permit, if you have one
• Details of any previous immigration applications you’ve made
• Details of any criminal convictions
• Your National Insurance number, if you have one
• Your parents’ date of birth and nationality if applying from outside the UK
• Your tuberculosis test results if required for your country
• A certified translation of any document not in English or Welsh
• Prove your knowledge of English
• Provide proof of finances, unless applying based on private life

Can I switch from a visitor visa to a fiance visa in the UK?

Switching from a visitor visa to a fiancé visa within the UK is generally not permitted. Visitor visas are intended for short stays and do not allow for in-country changes to other visa categories. If you wish to switch to a fiancé visa, you must leave the UK and apply from your home country or another country where you have legal residence. The fiancé visa application requires you to demonstrate your intention to marry a British citizen or a person settled in the UK and meet specific eligibility criteria. Ensure you comply with all visa regulations and application procedures for a successful transition.

How much does a UK fiance visa cost?

The cost of a UK Fiancé(e) Visa is £1,846 if applying from outside the UK and £1,258 if applying from within the UK. These fees cover the processing of your visa application. Additionally, you may need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which costs £2,587.50 for a stay of 2 years and 6 months, £3,105 for 2 years and 9 months, or £5,175 for a 5-year stay. Ensure you check for any additional costs, such as biometric fees, and verify the total cost through the official Home Office website or with a legal advisor for accurate, up-to-date information.

Can my boyfriend stay in the UK if I marry him?

If you marry your boyfriend in the UK, he can apply for a Spouse Visa, provided he meets the necessary requirements. He must apply for this visa before his current stay expires. To qualify, you must demonstrate that you are in a genuine and subsisting relationship, meet the financial requirement, and have adequate accommodation. If granted, the Spouse Visa allows him to live and work in the UK. Note that the visa is typically valid for 30 months, after which he can apply for further extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if eligible. Always consult current Home Office guidelines or a legal advisor for precise details.

Is it hard to get a fiance visa?

Securing a UK fiancé visa can be challenging, as it requires meeting specific criteria. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine relationship, financial stability, and appropriate accommodation. The process involves providing evidence such as proof of your relationship, financial documents, and meeting English language requirements. Additionally, the application must be completed accurately, and the correct fees must be paid. A detailed interview may also be part of the process. While the requirements can be stringent, careful preparation and a thorough understanding of the criteria can improve your chances. Consulting an immigration advisor can also help navigate the complexities.

Does a fiance visa allow you to work in the UK?

Securing a UK fiancé visa can be challenging, as it requires meeting specific criteria. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine relationship, financial stability, and appropriate accommodation. The process involves providing evidence such as proof of your relationship, financial documents, and meeting English language requirements. Additionally, the application must be completed accurately, and the correct fees must be paid. A detailed interview may also be part of the process. While the requirements can be stringent, careful preparation and a thorough understanding of the criteria can improve your chances. Consulting an immigration advisor can also help navigate the complexities.

What to do after a UK fiance visa is approved?

Once your UK fiancé visa is approved, you should:

1. Make Travel Arrangements: Plan your journey to the UK, ensuring you adhere to the visa conditions.
2. Prepare for Arrival: Familiarize yourself with the UK’s entry requirements and any additional documentation you may need upon arrival.
3. Plan the Wedding: Arrange your wedding or civil partnership ceremony within the visa’s validity period.
4. Apply for a Spouse Visa: After marriage, you’ll need to switch to a spouse visa to remain in the UK long-term.
5. Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities: Familiarize yourself with your rights and any obligations related to your visa status.

Do fiance visas get denied?

Yes, fiancé visas can be denied. Common reasons for denial include:

1. Insufficient Evidence: Failing to provide adequate proof of your relationship, such as shared financial commitments or correspondence.
2. Financial Shortfall: Not meeting the minimum income requirement to support yourselves without recourse to public funds.
3. Incomplete Application: Missing or incorrect information in your application form.
4. Visa Conditions Violation: Previous breaches of UK immigration rules.
5. Inadequate Documentation: Failing to submit required documents like passport copies or biometric details.

Who qualifies for a fiancé visa?

To qualify for a UK fiancé visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old.
• Relationship: You must intend to marry or enter into a civil partnership within six months of arriving in the UK.
• Proof of Relationship: You need to provide evidence of a genuine and subsisting relationship, such as shared living arrangements or financial commitments.
• Financial Requirement: You and your partner must demonstrate a combined income of at least £29,000 per year or have substantial savings.
• English Language: You must meet the English language requirement, unless exempt.

How do you prove you are a fiancé?

To prove you are a fiancé for a UK visa application, you must provide:

• Evidence of Relationship: Documentation such as engagement photos, letters, or communications demonstrating a genuine relationship.
• Proof of Intention to Marry: A formal plan to marry within six months of arriving in the UK, such as a wedding venue booking or an invitation.
• Shared Financial Responsibilities: Joint bank accounts, shared utility bills, or tenancy agreements showing cohabitation or financial interdependence.
• Legal Documents: Evidence of any previous marriages or civil partnerships, if applicable.

These documents must be recent and clearly indicate a committed relationship.

How long can you stay in the UK on a fiance visa?

On a UK fiancé visa, you can stay for up to 6 months. This visa allows you to enter the UK to marry or enter into a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with settled status. During this period, you must get married or enter into a civil partnership within the 6 months. After marriage, you can apply to switch to a spouse visa, which grants a longer stay and can lead to indefinite leave to remain. It’s important to ensure that you meet all conditions and deadlines to transition smoothly from a fiancé visa to a spouse visa.

What is the difference between a fiance visa and a spouse visa in the UK?

In the UK, a fiancé visa and a spouse visa serve different purposes. A fiancé visa is for individuals intending to marry a British citizen or a person with settled status within 6 months of arrival. It allows entry to the UK solely to get married or enter into a civil partnership. A spouse visa, on the other hand, is for those already married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled person. The spouse visa allows for a longer stay and can lead to indefinite leave to remain. The fiancé visa is a temporary entry visa, while the spouse visa grants more extended residency rights.

Can I get married while waiting for a fiancé visa?

You cannot get married in the UK while waiting for your fiancé visa. The fiancé visa is specifically designed for individuals intending to marry a British citizen or a person with settled status within 6 months of arrival. If you marry before obtaining your fiancé visa or before entering the UK, it may affect your application or eligibility for this visa. It’s essential to follow the visa’s terms and apply for the appropriate visa category that matches your situation. If you are already married, consider applying for a spouse visa instead. Always ensure compliance with visa regulations to avoid complications.

Can I bring my fiancé to the UK to get married?

Yes, you can bring your fiancé to the UK to get married using a fiancé visa. This visa allows your fiancé to enter the UK with the intention of marrying you within six months of arrival. To qualify, you must be a British citizen or settled in the UK, and you need to demonstrate that you meet the financial and accommodation requirements. Your fiancé must also prove the relationship’s authenticity and that both parties intend to marry within the specified period. Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria and provide all necessary documentation to facilitate a smooth application process.

What documents are proof of a relationship in the UK?

Proof of relationship in the UK can be demonstrated through several key documents. These include:

• Marriage or civil partnership certificates.
• Utility bills, tenancy agreements, or council tax statements showing both names at the same address.
• Bank statements or joint account statements confirming shared financial responsibilities.
• Letters from medical professionals or official correspondence addressed to both partners at the same address.
• Photos of the couple together, ideally with family or friends.

All documents should be recent and accurately reflect your ongoing relationship. Ensure they meet the specified requirements to support your visa or immigration application.

What is the fastest way to get a fiance visa?

The fastest way to obtain a UK fiancé visa involves several key steps. First, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, including having a genuine relationship and meeting financial requirements. Prepare your documents meticulously, including proof of relationship, financial evidence, and identity documents. Complete the online application accurately and pay the visa fee. Book and attend a biometric appointment promptly. Submit your application with all required documents to avoid delays. Opt for expedited processing if available. Ensure all details are correct to avoid delays due to errors or omissions.

What is the difference between a fiance visa and a tourist visa?

A fiancé visa and a tourist visa serve distinct purposes. A fiancé visa allows a foreign national to enter the UK with the intent to marry a British citizen or settled person within six months. It grants permission to stay while planning the marriage and subsequently apply for a spouse visa. Conversely, a tourist visa is intended for short-term visits, typically up to six months, for tourism or family visits. It does not permit the holder to marry or switch to a different visa category while in the UK. The fiancé visa is designed for long-term intentions, whereas the tourist visa is for temporary stays.

Why would a fiance visa be denied in the UK?

A fiancé visa in the UK may be denied for several reasons. Common issues include failing to meet the financial requirement, insufficient proof of a genuine relationship, or inadequate supporting documents. Other reasons could be a previous immigration violation or criminal record. If the applicant does not provide evidence of their intention to marry within six months, or if the British partner does not meet the requirements, the visa may be refused. Additionally, if the applicant cannot demonstrate their ability to support themselves or their partner, this could lead to denial. Ensuring all criteria are met and providing comprehensive evidence can help avoid rejection.

What is the new rule for spouse visas in the UK?

The new rule for the UK spouse visa introduces an increase in the minimum income requirement. As of April 2024, you must demonstrate a combined annual income of at least £29,000 to qualify. This increment aims to ensure that couples can support themselves financially without relying on public funds. The requirement can be met through salaried income, self-employment, or a combination of different financial sources. If necessary, savings can also be used to meet the threshold. It is important to review all updated guidelines and prepare your financial evidence accordingly to ensure compliance with the new regulations.