Fiance Visa: Comprehensive Guide for Applicants
The UK Fiance Visa is a type of family visa that allows individuals to enter the UK to marry or enter into a civil partnership with a British citizen
or someone with settled status. This visa is ideal for couples who intend to formalize their relationship in the UK and provides a pathway to future
settlement. At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we provide tailored advice and assistance to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the eligibility criteria, application process, and key requirements for the UK Fiance Visa.
What is the Fiance Visa?
The Fiance Visa allows the non-UK partner of a British citizen or settled person to enter the UK for six months with the purpose of marrying or entering
into a civil partnership. After the marriage or civil partnership, the applicant may apply to switch to a Spouse Visa to remain in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria for the Fiance Visa
To qualify for the UK Fiance Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Relationship Requirement:
- The applicant and sponsor must intend to marry or enter into a civil partnership within six months of the visa being granted.
- The relationship must be genuine and subsisting.
2. Immigration Status of the Sponsor:
- The sponsor must be a British citizen, have indefinite leave to remain, or hold settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
3. Financial Requirement:
- The sponsor must meet a minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year or have sufficient savings to support the applicant.
- The income requirement increases if dependent children are included in the application:
- For one child: An additional £3,800 per year.
- For each subsequent child: An additional £2,400 per year.
4. **English Language Requirement:
- The applicant must demonstrate English language proficiency at CEFR Level A1.
5. Accommodation Requirement:
- The couple must demonstrate that they have adequate accommodation in the UK without relying on public funds.
Application Process for the Fiance Visa
The application process for the Fiance Visa involves the following steps:
1. Prepare Supporting Documents:
- Gather evidence of the relationship, financial maintenance, and accommodation arrangements.
2. Submit the Online Application:
- Complete the application form on the UK government website and pay the application fee.
3. Biometrics Appointment:
- Book and attend an appointment to provide fingerprints, photographs, and supporting documents.
4. Decision:
- The Home Office typically processes applications within 8 to 12 weeks, though priority services may be available for faster decisions.
Documents Required for the Fiance Visa
Applicants must provide the following documents as part of their application:
1. A valid passport or travel document.
2. Evidence of the relationship, such as:
- Photographs together.
- Correspondence showing regular contact.
- Evidence of visits or joint activities.
3. Financial evidence, such as:
- Payslips and bank statements for the past six months.
- Savings statements (if applicable).
4. Evidence of adequate accommodation in the UK.
5. Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS certificate).
6. A notice of marriage or civil partnership, if available.
Financial Requirements for the Fiance Visa
The financial requirement ensures that the couple can support themselves in the UK without relying on public funds. The sponsor must demonstrate
either:
1. An annual income of at least £18,600, or
2. Savings of at least £62,500 if the income threshold cannot be met.
If the couple has dependent children, the financial threshold increases as follows:
- For one child: £22,400.
- For each additional child: £2,400 per child.
What Happens After Marriage?
Once the couple has married or entered into a civil partnership, the applicant can apply to switch to a Spouse Visa. The Spouse Visa allows
the applicant to remain in the UK for an initial period of 30 months and provides a pathway to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after five years.
Common Challenges and Solutions
1. Proving a Genuine Relationship:
- Insufficient evidence of the relationship may lead to refusals.
- Solution: Provide detailed documentation, including photographs, messages, and travel records.
2. Meeting Financial Requirements:
- Irregular income or financial instability may raise concerns.
- Solution: Include all sources of income or use savings to meet the threshold.
3. Providing Comprehensive Documentation:
- Missing or incomplete documents can delay the application process.
- Solution: Work with legal experts to ensure all requirements are met.
How Sahin Legal Consultancy Can Help
At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we provide tailored support for Fiance Visa applications, including:
1. Eligibility Assessment:
- Reviewing your circumstances to ensure you meet the requirements for a successful application.
2. Document Preparation:
- Assisting with the preparation of all necessary evidence to strengthen your application.
3. Application Submission:
- Completing and submitting the application to minimize errors and delays.
4. Appeals and Reviews:
- Representing clients in cases of application refusals or delays.
Contact Us Today
The Fiance Visa provides an excellent opportunity for couples to begin their lives together in the UK. At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we are committed to helping you achieve a successful outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your future in the UK.
