Fiance Visa UK Requirements and Application Guide 2024

The Fiancé Visa (also known as a Prospective Marriage Visa) is designed for non-UK nationals who wish to come to the UK to marry or enter a civil partnership with their British or settled partner.

Here’s an overview of the 2024 requirements and application process:

Fiancé Visa UK Requirements (2024)

To make a successful application for a Fiance Visa, you will need meet below eligibility criteria and show:

• Age: Both you and your partner must be over 18 years old.
• Marriage/Civil Partnership: You must plan to get married or enter into a civil partnership within 6 months of arriving in the UK.
• Partner’s Status: Your partner must be a British or Irish citizen, have settled status, or hold certain visas (e.g. Turkish businessperson/worker visa, refugee status, or humanitarian protection).
• Living Together: You both intend to live together in the UK after marriage or civil partnership.
• Financial Requirement: You must have a combined income of at least £29,000 to support yourselves without public funds.
• Accommodation: You must have suitable accommodation in the UK.
• English Language: You need to show sufficient knowledge of English by passing a level A1 English test (CEFR scale).

Genuine Relationship Requirement

At Deluxe Law Chambers, we understand the importance of proving a genuine relationship for a Fiancé Visa application. You will need to demonstrate that you and your UK-based partner are in a real and committed relationship. This includes showing that:

• You are in a genuine, subsisting relationship.
• You plan to marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within 6 months of arrival.
• You intend to live together in the UK after your marriage or civil partnership.

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) are highly vigilant against sham relationships, where applicants may falsely claim to be in a legitimate partnership. To avoid complications, it is crucial to gather proper evidence of your relationship.

If you’re uncertain whether you meet the genuine relationship requirement, our expert immigration solicitors are here to assist. Contact us at 01614644140, and we will guide you through the process with clarity and professionalism.

Fiance Visa Financial requirements

As a Fiancé Visa applicant, you and your UK-based partner must demonstrate a minimum combined gross annual income of £29,000. Several sources of income can be considered, including:

• Income from employment or self-employment
• Pension income for either you or your partner
• Maternity allowances or bereavement benefits received by your UK-based partner
• Other specified income or savings

Using Savings to Meet the Financial Requirement:

Savings can also be used to meet the financial requirement, as long as they exceed £16,000. If your savings amount to £88,500, you won’t need to show evidence of any income. The Home Office calculates savings as follows:

• Step 1: Subtract £16,000 from your total savings, and divide the remaining amount by 2.5 (since the savings need to last 2.5 years).
• Step 2: Subtract the result from the minimum income requirement (£29,000). The final figure is your new required income.

For example:

• If you have £17,500 in savings, subtract £16,000, leaving £1,500.
• Divide £1,500 by 2.5, which equals £600.
• Subtract £600 from £29,000, leaving a new income requirement of £28,400.

When applying, you will need to provide and sign a declaration detailing the source of your savings.

Exemptions from the Financial Requirement:

If your sponsor receives any of the following benefits, they may be exempt from meeting the £29,000 income requirement:

• Disability living allowance
• Armed Forces Independence Payment or other military compensation
• Carers’ allowance
• Industrial injury disablement benefit, and other similar allowances

In these cases, your sponsor does not need to meet the income threshold. However, you still need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and adequate accommodation without relying on public funds.

If these exemptions do not apply, you may request the Home Office consider exceptional circumstances, such as the potential harm to your children if your application is refused. Even in such cases, you must still show sufficient financial resources, though the sources can be broader.

For further guidance, speak to one of our expert immigration solicitors at Deluxe Law Chambers, who can advise you on how best to meet the financial requirements for a Fiancé Visa.

English language requirement for fiance visa

As a Fiancé Visa applicant, you must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the English language to meet the visa requirements. This can be done in three ways:

• Passing an English language test: You can take a CEFR-approved English test at level A1 in speaking and writing from an approved testing centre.
• Academic qualifications: If you hold a degree or other academic qualification that was taught in English, you automatically meet the English language requirement.
• Exemptions: You are exempt from the English language requirement if you are over 65 years of age, have a physical or mental condition preventing you from meeting the requirement, or if you are from an English-speaking country, including Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, the USA, Canada, and others.

Additionally, you must provide evidence of suitable accommodation in the UK, which must be owned or occupied exclusively by you and your family, offer sufficient living space, and comply with public health standards. For guidance, contact one of our expert immigration solicitors at Deluxe Law Chambers to help ensure your visa application is complete and successful.

UK Fiance Visa required documents

When applying for a UK Fiancé Visa, it is crucial to provide the correct documents to support your application. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will guide you on the required evidence, which typically includes:

• Completed application form and payment of the application fee
• Valid passport and any previous passports
• Proof of your genuine relationship, such as:
  • Reference letters from friends, family, or professionals confirming your relationship
  • Shared bills or bank statements
  • Divorce certificates if previously married
  • Photographs, correspondence, and messages showing the relationship history
  • Details of how, when, and where you met
• Proof of meeting the English language requirement, such as a CEFR exam certificate
• Two passport-sized photos that meet UKVI guidelines
• Proof of financial requirements, such as bank statements, savings, or wage slips
• Details of previous immigration applications (if applicable)
• Information on any criminal convictions
• National Insurance number (if applicable)
• Proof of accommodation in the UK
• Biometric information (fingerprints and digital photo)
• Tuberculosis test results (if required based on your country of origin)

To avoid refusal or delays, ensure all documents are properly formatted and translated where needed. At Deluxe Law Chambers, our experienced family immigration solicitors can assist with the complexities of Fiancé Visa documentation. We will help you submit all necessary evidence to UKVI and ensure nothing is overlooked.

For expert legal advice, call us at 01614644140 and let us guide you through your Fiancé Visa application with confidence.

How to apply for a UK fiance visa?

To apply for a UK Fiancé Visa, you must complete the application process online via the Home Office website. Follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility: Ensure you meet the visa requirements. If unsure, consult one of our expert family visa solicitors for confirmation.
2. Prepare your documents: Gather all the necessary evidence to prove your eligibility. Our solicitors can handle this for you, ensuring everything is complete.
3. Complete the online application form: Submit your information accurately.
4. Pay the application fee: The cost varies; see the FAQ section for current fees.
5. Upload supporting documents: Provide all required documentation to back your application.
6. Schedule a biometric appointment: Have your fingerprints and photo taken as part of the process.
7. Attend an interview (if requested): You may be invited for an interview to further assess your application.

For a smooth and hassle-free application, contact our immigration solicitors at Deluxe Law Chambers for professional guidance throughout the process.

How long can you stay in the UK on a Fiance Visa?

If your Fiancé Visa is granted, you can stay in the UK for 6 months to get married or enter into a civil partnership. After marriage, you can apply for a Spouse Visa, which is valid for up to 30 months. This visa can be extended for an additional 30 months, allowing you to continue your stay. To qualify, you must remain in the same eligible relationship with your UK-based partner and ensure you apply for the Spouse Visa before your current visa expires.

What is the difference between Fiance Visa and Spouse Visa

The Fiancé Visa is designed for couples who plan to get married or enter into a civil partnership before applying for a Spouse Visa. On the other hand, the Spouse Visa is for couples who are already married, in a civil partnership, or have been living together in a committed relationship for at least 2 years at the time of application.

A Fiancé Visa allows you to stay in the UK for an initial period of 6 months, whereas a Spouse Visa grants permission to stay for up to 33 months (or 30 months if switching from a Fiancé Visa), with the possibility of extending it for an additional 30 months.

How much is the fee for fiance visa?

The visa application fee for a UK Fiancée Visa is currently £1,846.

• The Home Office application fee for a UK Fiance Visa application submitted outside the UK is currently £1,846.
• The Home Office application fee to switch into the spouse category from within the UK or extend stay as a spouse is currently £1,048.
• Additional fees will apply if you use the Priority Service.

What to do if fiance visa is refused?

If your Fiancé Visa application is refused, it’s important to act quickly. Contact our experienced immigration solicitors at Deluxe Law Chambers for expert advice on the best steps to take and how to successfully appeal your case. We can help you navigate the appeals process and improve your chances of securing a visa.

Attending the Visa Interview

In some cases, applicants may be required to attend a visa interview. During this interview, immigration officers will assess the genuineness of the relationship and your eligibility for the visa. It is essential to be well-prepared and provide honest answers.

Waiting for the outcome

After the online application is submitted and you have done your fingerprints, you will need to wait for the decision.

Common Reasons for Visa Refusals

Applying for a fiancé visa can be challenging, and many applicants face refusals for a variety of reasons. Some common causes of visa refusals include:

• Insufficient financial evidence: Not meeting the minimum income threshold or failing to provide adequate proof of finances.
• Lack of evidence for a genuine relationship: Failure to provide convincing documentation of the relationship, such as photos, communication records, and travel history.
• Incorrect or incomplete documentation: Missing or incorrect documents can lead to an immediate refusal. It’s essential to double-check all submissions and ensure everything is in order.
• Inability to meet the English language requirement: Failing the English language test or not providing proof of exemption.
• Non-compliance with immigration rules: Violating visa conditions or providing misleading information during the application process can result in a refusal.

After the Fiancée Visa: What’s Next?

Once the applicant arrives in the UK and the couple gets married, the next step is to apply for Further Leave to Remain (FLR(M)), which will allow the spouse to stay in the UK beyond the initial six months. This application must be submitted before the fiance visa expires.

The FLR(M) visa is typically granted for two and a half years, during which time the spouse can work, study, and live in the UK. After living in the UK for five years on a spouse visa, the individual may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which offers permanent residency.

Finance Visa to British Citizenship Pathway

A[Fiance Visa] --> B[Marriage]
B --> C[FLR(M)]
C --> D[Spouse Visa Extension for 2.5 years]
D --> E[Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)]
E --> F[British Citizenship]

Why choose deluxe law chambers for your Fiancé visa application?

Choosing the right and best immigration lawyer for your immigration needs can be stressful. While it could seem like a difficult choice, let us simplify things for you. Here are a few good reasons why you should choose Deluxe Law Chambers to assist you with your UK visas and immigration matters.

We have offices in London and Manchester. However, we provide immigration advice and services nationwide.

Our commitment to affordability means that you can receive expert advice without straining your finances. Our success hinges on transparency. We believe in keeping you informed about every step of the process, ensuring that you understand your options and the potential outcomes.

• REGULATED – We are regulated and approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to provide immigration advice & services.
• EXPERIENCE – Our firm rests on specialist immigration lawyers and solicitors with years of experience. Our well-earned experience distinguishes us from others.
• EXPERTISE – As your immigration lawyer, we offer unparalleled expertise. We don’t just understand and interpret the law, we keep an eye on the slightest changes.
• AUTHORITY – Our authority isn’t just about legal powers but is gained through genuine care and successful outcomes for our clientele. So, why choose just a lawyer when you can choose a trusted authority?
• TRUST – Our commitment to uphold your trust is unwavering. Our transparency and ethical conduct are treatments for the trust placed in us by our clients.
• DIRECT ACCESS – At Deluxe Law Chambers as your immigration lawyers, you will have direct access to your qualified lawyer 24/7.
• REMOTE SERVICES – We are able to provide a fully digital service, and you may never have to visit our offices for 9/10 immigration cases.
• AFFORDABLE – We are a law firm with an affordable and fixed fee plan. We offer two installments to ensure you can pay easily.

A combination of our rich experience, deep-rooted expertise, trust authority, and unwavering commitment to our clients makes us your best choice.

So, why wait? Take your first step towards a successful immigration application with us.

Fiancee visa requirements – frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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