Unmarried Partner Visa UK Requirements

The UK Unmarried Partner Visa offers a pathway for unmarried partners of British citizens or settled individuals to join them in the United Kingdom. This visa is part of the family visa category and is designed for couples in genuine, durable relationships who wish to live together in the UK. Understanding the requirements and application process is crucial to ensuring a successful outcome. This guide outlines the key eligibility criteria, required documentation, and steps to apply.

For detailed advice and personalized support, visit UK Immigration Solicitors.

What is the UK Unmarried Partner Visa?

The unmarried partner visa allows individuals who are in a long-term, committed relationship but not married to a British citizen or someone with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to reside in the UK. This visa is also available to the partners of EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Eligibility Requirements for the Unmarried Partner Visa

1. Relationship Requirements

• The applicant must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting relationship with their partner.
• The couple must have lived together for at least two years in a relationship akin to marriage or civil partnership.
• Evidence such as joint tenancy agreements, shared financial responsibilities, or photos together can demonstrate this.

2. Financial Requirements

• The sponsoring partner must meet a minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year.
• This threshold increases if there are dependent children: £22,400 for one child and an additional £2,400 for each subsequent child.
• Applicants can also use savings to meet the requirement if the income threshold is not met.

3. English Language Requirement

• Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English by passing an approved English language test at CEFR Level A1 or higher.
• Alternatively, a degree taught in English or being a national of an English-speaking country can fulfill this requirement.

4. Accommodation Requirement

• The couple must have suitable accommodation available that meets UK living standards.

5. Immigration Status

• The sponsoring partner must be either a British citizen, hold ILR, have refugee status, or possess pre-settled/settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

Which Documents Are Required For A UK Unmarried Partner Visa?

For an Unmarried Partner Visa, you have to submit a number of papers that show you are eligible. Some of these are:

• your current passport
• a photocopy of your biometric residence permit
• evidence of your relationship, such as:
  • information about your partner, like their name, date of birth, country, passport, and permission to live in the UK
  • proof that you are dating your partner, like proof of when and how you met and how often you see each other – Any proof given should be less than 4 years old.
  • proof that you have lived together for a while, like bills, mortgages, rental agreements, and other things that you pay for together.
  • whether you take care of your partner’s
  • details of anyone your partner was married to, in a civil union with, or had children with in the past, along with divorce certificates
  • details about anyone your partner financially supports
• Proof that you have the money you need, like:
  • Bank records that show how much money you and your partner make and how much you have saved
  • 6 months of pay stubs
  • a letter from the applicant’s or partner’s boss confirming that the payslips are real and explaining how long they’ve worked there, what their job is, and how much they are paid.
  • proof of other means of income, like a pension or rental property
  • P60s
• information about any other visa applications you’ve made
• information about any convictions
• national insurance number
• test reports for tuberculosis (TB) which are only needed

What Is The Unmarried Partner Visa UK Cost & Processing Time?

From outside the UK, the cost of applying for an Unmarried Partner visa is £1,846. It will cost £1,048 if you are applying from inside the UK.

You will also have to pay an extra £1,035 a year for immigration health care. Moreover, you will have to pay £5,175 if you want to stay in the UK for five years.

UKVI can take up to 24 weeks to process your application if you are not in the UK when you submit it.

From within the UK, it could take up to 8 weeks or even up to 12 months to process your application if you don’t meet all the standards.

You might have to pay extra to get your application handled faster, but this is usually possible.

If you need to quickly send in your Unmarried Partner visa application you can contact our UK immigration solicitors. If your case is important, we can help you put together a full application and document package in just a few days. For urgent help, call us at 02033844389 or send us a message online.

Documents Required for the Application

The following documents are typically needed to support an unmarried partner visa application:

• Passports of both the applicant and their partner.
• Evidence of a genuine relationship (e.g., photos, joint financial documents, correspondence).
• Proof of cohabitation for at least two years.
• Financial evidence (e.g., payslips, bank statements, savings statements).
• English language test certificate or proof of exemption.
• Accommodation details (e.g., rental agreements, property ownership documents).

Application Process

1. Complete the Online Application
   The application must be submitted online through the official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal.
2. Pay the Fees

1. • The standard visa fee is £1,538 if applying from outside the UK or £1,048 if applying from within the UK.
   • Additionally, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is payable, granting access to the NHS during your stay.

3. Submit Biometrics
   Attend an appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
4. Provide Supporting Documents
   Upload the necessary documents as evidence for your application.
5. Wait for a Decision
   Processing times vary, but most applications are decided within 12 weeks. Priority services are available for faster processing.

Duration and Extension of the Visa

The unmarried partner visa is typically granted for 2.5 years. After this period, you can apply for an extension if you still meet the eligibility requirements. Once you have lived in the UK for five years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Key Tips for a Successful Application

• Prepare Thoroughly: Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate.
• Prove Cohabitation: Gather evidence of living together, such as joint bills and tenancy agreements.
• Seek Legal Advice: Immigration rules can be complex, so consulting an experienced solicitor can help avoid common pitfalls.

For expert legal guidance on applying for an unmarried partner visa, contact UK Immigration Solicitors. Their team provides tailored advice and ensures your application meets all requirements for the best chance of success.