UK Fiancé Visa
Expert legal guidance to prepare compliant applications and secure your route from engagement towards settlement.
What is the UK Fiancé Visa Application Fee?
The Home Office fee for a UK Fiancé Visa application submitted from outside the UK is currently £1,846. However, if you are switching to the spouse category or extending your stay as a spouse within the UK, the fee is £1,048. Additional charges apply for the Priority Service.
- Fiancé Visa Outside UK: £1,846
- Switch to Spouse Visa/extend stay: £1,048
- Priority Service: £500 (not available for out-of-country applications)
Beyond the Home Office application fees, there may be other costs associated with the application process, depending on the country of origin. Application fees are payable at online submission, are non-refundable even if refused, and do not include ancillary or legal costs.
What is a UK Fiancé Visa?
The UK Fiancé Visa, sometimes referred to as the Fiancée Visa, Proposed Civil Partner Visa, or Engagement Visa, is a key component of the family visa scheme.
This visa is designed for eligible foreign nationals over the age of 18 who wish to come to the UK to marry or enter into a civil partnership with a British citizen or an individual who is settled in the UK, such as someone with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or EU Settled Status.
How UK Fiancé(e) Visa Works?
The UK Fiancé Visa allows individuals to join their British citizen or settled partner in the UK for the purpose of marriage or civil partnership. After the marriage or civil partnership, they can transition to a Spouse Visa.
Important Update: Effective 11 April 2024, new regulations have been introduced for the UK Fiancé Visa. The minimum income requirement for sponsors has been increased to £29,000 per year.
How to Prepare a Fiancé Visa Application?
Our highly rated immigration solicitors specialise in building compelling applications that highlight the authentic nature of your partnership.
- Free Initial Eligibility Assessment
- Flexible Services (In-person, Phone, Virtual)
- Application Preparation, Review, and Submission
- Relationship Evidence Portfolio
- Compelling Cover Letters/Letters of Representation
- Ongoing Application Tracking and Support
We fight for outcomes that protect your rights and secure your future. Do not leave your dreams to chance. Call now or contact us online for your free initial assessment.
Eligibility Requirements for a UK Fiance Visa
To obtain a UK Fiancé Visa, applicants must provide evidence that they satisfy a range of eligibility criteria. Meeting these requirements is crucial for a successful Fiancé Visa application. At Axis Solicitors, our experienced solicitors are dedicated to guiding you through each step, ensuring that all the documentation is prepared with evidence for a convincing application.
How Long Can You Stay in the UK on a Fiancé Visa?
Once granted a Fiancé Visa, you will have a six-month period from your arrival in the UK to marry or form a civil partnership. After your marriage or civil partnership, you can apply for a Spouse Visa.
- This visa initially permits you to stay in the UK for 33 months and can be extended for an additional 30 months.
Eventually, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing you to live in the UK permanently without being subject to immigration restrictions.
How Can a Fiancé Visa Lead You Toward Permanent Residency in the UK?
The Fiancé Visa is an essential step towards building your life in the UK with your partner. After successfully marrying or entering into a civil partnership and transitioning to a Spouse Visa, you are on the pathway to permanent residency through ILR. This process ensures that you can live, work, and thrive in the UK without ongoing immigration concerns.
Axis Solicitors offers legal services for your entire UK immigration journey. Our immigration solicitors are dedicated to guiding you through each stage, from securing your Fiancé Visa and transitioning to a Spouse Visa, to ultimately obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) before finally applying for citizenship. We are committed to providing a client focus and achieving results in your immigration process.
Let Expert Solicitors Help You Move From Fiancé Visa to Citizenship
Let Axis Solicitors make the process of obtaining a UK Fiancé Visa straightforward and stress-free. Reach out to us for a free initial assessment, and take the first step towards your new life in the UK with confidence.
Are You Eligible for the UK Fiancé Visa?
Applying for a UK Fiancé Visa involves meeting specific eligibility criteria and providing the required evidence.
- Age Requirement: Both you and your partner must be over 18 years old.
- Marriage or Civil Partnership Intentions: You must have a genuine intention to get married or enter into a civil partnership within six months of arriving in the UK.
- Partner’s Immigration Status: Your partner must be a British or Irish citizen, have settled status in the UK (such as indefinite leave to remain or EU settled status), hold a UK Turkish businessperson or worker visa, or have refugee status or humanitarian protection.
- Cohabitation Plans: You must intend to live together in the UK once you are married or in a civil partnership.
- Financial Requirements: You and your partner must demonstrate financial stability with a combined annual income of at least £29,000.
- Accommodation in the UK: You must have suitable accommodation arranged for your stay in the UK.
- English Language Requirement: You must prove your knowledge of the English language, typically by passing an approved English language test at A1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.
Each application is carefully assessed on a case-by-case basis, considering all available evidence and the unique circumstances of your relationship. Providing convincing documentation is key for a successful application.
Successful Applications
Our experienced immigration solicitors specialise in Fiancé Visas and are dedicated to making your dream wedding a reality. We understand the application process and can assist you in preparing the documentation required for a convincing portfolio of evidence.
What are the Relationship Requirements for UK Fiance Visa?
Meeting in Person
To qualify for a UK Fiancé Visa, you and your fiancé must have met in person. This requirement goes beyond a brief encounter. Providing evidence of in-person meetings can demonstrate a genuine and ongoing relationship.
In-Person Meeting Evidence
- Evidence of face-to-face meetings that led to the development of your relationship is necessary.
- Documented proof of your in-person interactions is required.
- A short encounter followed only by phone calls or written communication is insufficient.
Key Evidence to Provide
- Dated photographs of you together.
- Travel itineraries and boarding passes.
- Accommodation receipts from shared trips.
- Witness statements from friends or family who have seen you together.
For a successful application, applicants must provide enough compelling evidence to satisfy the caseworker handling the application that you have met in person. Therefore, our solicitors will help you gather the necessary evidence, navigate potential challenges, and present a persuasive case to the Home Office.
Genuine Relationship Requirement
To be eligible for a UK Fiancé Visa, you must demonstrate that you are in a genuine and enduring relationship with your partner who resides in the UK.
Relationship Requirements
- Legitimate Relationship: Your relationship with your UK partner is authentic and not solely for the purpose of obtaining a visa.
- Marriage or Civil Partnership Plans: You and your partner plan to marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within six months of your arrival.
- Cohabitation Intentions: You intend to live together in the UK after your marriage or civil partnership.
Evidence for the Home Office
- Demonstrate the sincerity of your commitment to each other.
- Provide a detailed timeline of your relationship’s development.
- Show plans for your shared future in the UK.
Key Documentation
- Detailed communication records (e.g., messages, emails, call logs).
- Evidence of shared financial responsibilities.
- Plans for your marriage and life together in the UK.
- Statements from both partners describing the relationship’s progression.
Please take note that the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) focuses on identifying and preventing deceptive applications and fraudulent relationships from being approved for the Fiancé Visa.
What This Means for You
- Thorough Scrutiny: Your application will be meticulously reviewed by the UKVI to confirm the legitimacy of your relationship.
- Evidence is Key: Providing detailed evidence of your relationship’s authenticity is required for a successful outcome.
Our immigration solicitors are experts at compiling successful Fiancé Visa applications and can ensure your application meets all the requirements. We have been regularly compiling portfolios of evidence for successful Fiancé Visa applications for many years, and know exactly what it takes to present irrefutable proof.
Check out the complete blog on Fiance Visa Requirements and learn about all the requirements in complete details.
What are the Financial Requirements for UK Fiancé Visa?
To ensure you can financially support yourself in the UK without relying on public funds, you must meet the Fiancé Visa financial requirement.
The Minimum Income Requirement
Generally, this means demonstrating that your fiancé (or both of you combined, if you are in the UK with valid leave to remain) has a gross annual income of at least £29,000.
A separate financial provision for children is no longer part of the minimum income requirement.
Exceptions and Special Considerations
Different rules may apply if your fiancé(e) is in receipt of specific state benefits. In such cases, the emphasis shifts to demonstrating that you, as the sponsor, can adequately maintain and accommodate your partner and any accompanying family members.
Application Stages
The financial requirement must be met at various stages:
- When you initially apply for the Fiancé Visa.
- When you extend your stay as a spouse.
- When you apply for indefinite leave to remain as a spouse.
The financial requirements for the Fiancé Visa have strict rules regarding the necessary documentation. It is the applicant’s responsibility to prove you meet these requirements, and failure to provide the correct financial evidence is a common reason for visa refusal.
Expert Assistance from Axis Solicitors
At Axis Solicitors, we specialise in guiding clients through UK Fiancé Visa applications. With a wealth of experience in immigration law and a strong background in accounting related legal services, we are well-equipped to handle the intricate financial documentation required for a successful visa application.
Financial Guidance
Our team provides expert advice on assessing your income, identifying acceptable financial resources, and compiling the necessary documentation. By meticulously reviewing your financial situation, we help you present a robust case that meets all Home Office requirements. This thorough approach minimises the risk of errors and significantly enhances your chances of a successful application.
What are the Financial Requirements for UK Fiancé Visa?
Establishing that you meet the financial requirements with appropriate documentation for your Fiancé Visa application is fundamental for securing approval.
Nevertheless, the financial requirements for a UK Fiancé Visa can be met through various means, providing you with options and flexibility for demonstrating your financial stability.
Acceptable sources of income and funds include:
- Salaried or non-salaried employment income: This applies to your fiancé(e)’s income, and yours if you’re in the UK with permission to work.
- Non-employment income: This could include income from property rental, dividends from shares, or other non-employment sources.
- Cash savings exceeding £16,000: These savings must have been held by you or your fiancé(e) for at least six months and be readily accessible.
- Pension income: This can be from a state, occupational, or private pension held by either you or your fiancé(e).
- Self-employment income: Income earned from self-employment or as a director/employee of a specific limited company in the UK is acceptable, provided you have the right to work in the UK.
In certain circumstances, a combination of these income sources can be used to meet the financial requirement.
Using Savings
Savings can be used to meet the income requirement, provided they exceed £16,000. If your savings amount to £88,500 or more, no additional income needs to be demonstrated.
The Home Office calculates the impact of savings on the income requirement as follows:
- Subtract £16,000 from your total savings.
- Divide the remaining amount by 2.5 (reflecting the 2.5 years your savings should cover).
- Subtract this figure from the standard minimum income requirement of £29,000.
The resulting figure is your adjusted minimum income requirement.
Additionally, those relying on cash savings should note that the amount required for initial entry clearance and extension applications may differ from that needed for indefinite leave to remain, depending on the unique circumstances.
Exceptions and Special Considerations
In certain circumstances, if your fiancé(e) receives eligible state benefits or entitlements, the standard financial requirements may be adjusted or waived. For instance, if a sponsor receives Disability Living Allowance or an Armed Forces or War Pensions, the £29,000 income requirement might be waived.
Exceptional Circumstances
In exceptional cases where refusal of the Fiancé Visa could potentially violate Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), other credible and reliable financial resources available to the couple may be considered.
How to Fulfill Accommodation Requirement of the UK Fiance Visa?
As you prepare your UK fiancé visa application, establishing suitable accommodation is a key requirement. This involves demonstrating that you and your fiancé will have adequate living arrangements upon arrival in the UK, without relying on public funds. The accommodation must be owned or exclusively occupied by you or your fiancé and comply with legal and regulatory standards.
Requirements
- Exclusive Use: At least part of the accommodation must be for the exclusive use of the family. This typically means having a private bedroom or similar space.
- Overcrowding and Health Regulations: The property must not be overcrowded and must comply with public health regulations. According to the Housing Act 1985, overcrowding is assessed based on the number and use of rooms, excluding bathrooms and kitchens.
- Proof of Ownership or Occupancy: You must provide evidence of the legal basis on which the property is owned or occupied. This may include:
- Copy of the title deeds and mortgage arrangements.
- If residing with a family member, a letter from them confirming the basis of your residence.
- For rented properties, evidence from the local authority or landlord confirming the basis of your occupancy.
- Private Tenancy: Greater care is needed for private tenancies. Provide a tenancy agreement, a letter from the landlord or agency, and confirmation that the full rent is paid on time each month.
- Property Condition: The property must meet public health standards.
Requirements
- Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs): If the accommodation is an HMO, you may need a letter from the local council confirming no objection to an additional resident.
- Private Tenancies: The Home Office might scrutinise private tenancy agreements closely. Provide detailed evidence, including proof of regular rent payments and a letter from your landlord/letting agency.
- Property Inspection: The Home Office may request a property inspection report by a Chartered Surveyor or local authority, if any concerns about the accommodation’s suitability arise.
Accommodation Services
We ensure all accommodation requirements for your UK Fiancé Visa are met. Our team, proficient in both immigration and property law, will assist you in proving exclusive use of your property, verifying compliance with health regulations, and securing property inspection reports.
We have an established record in providing proof of ownership and obtaining necessary letters from landlords or family members. Our expertise in addressing the legalities of HMOs and private tenancies uniquely positions us to support you effectively.
What are the English Language Requirements for a UK Fiance Visa?
To secure a UK Fiancé Visa, demonstrating your English language proficiency is required unless you meet specific exemption criteria. This requirement is a mandatory step in the visa application process and failure to demonstrate proficiency may result in your application being refused.
Initial Requirement – Fiancé Visa
- When applying for the Fiancé Visa, you must prove your English language competence to at least the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) level A1.
Subsequent Requirement – Spouse Visa
- After switching to the Spouse Visa and holding that visa for 2.5 years, you will then need to demonstrate English proficiency to at least CEFR level A2 when applying for further leave to remain.
How to Meet the English Language Requirements?
You can fulfil the English language requirement for a Fiancé Visa through one of the following ways:
- Nationality: Being a citizen of a majority English-speaking country.
- Approved English Language Test: Passing an approved English language test at or above the required CEFR level with an approved provider. You can find a list of these on the Approved Secure English Language Tests and Test Centres page.
- Academic Qualifications: Holding a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree awarded in the UK, or if awarded outside the UK, recognised by Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) as meeting or exceeding UK standards and confirmed to have been taught or researched in English at the required CEFR level.
Exemptions from the English Language Requirement
You may be exempt from meeting the English language requirement if you can demonstrate one of the following:
- Age: You are over 65 years old at the time of application.
- Disability: You have a physical or mental disability that prevents you from meeting the English language requirement.
- Exceptional Circumstances: There are exceptional circumstances that prevent you from satisfying the English language requirement before entering the UK.
Exceptional Circumstances
In certain situations, you might be exempt from the English language requirement, such as if you are a long-term resident in a conflict zone, a country without approved tests, or a full-time carer of a disabled child. These cases are assessed individually and other similar situations may also qualify.
Exemptions Foreign Nationals
If you are a national of the following Commonwealth countries you are exempt from meeting the English language requirements:
- USA
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Canada
- Grenada
- Belize
- Barbados
- Antigua and Barbuda
- The Bahama
- Dominico
- Jamaica
- Guyana
- Ireland – for citizenship only
- St Lucia
- S Kitts and Nevis
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
Not Meeting the Requirement
If you cannot demonstrate that you meet the English language requirement or qualify for an exemption, your Fiancé Visa application may be refused.
Steps to apply for a UK Fiancé Visa
Preparing a UK Fiancé Visa requires careful planning and accurate documentation to meet Home Office requirements.
- Check eligibility for age, relationship, finances, accommodation, and English.
- Complete online form accurately and consistently.
- Gather documents including passports, relationship, financial, accommodation, and language proof.
- Organise evidence clearly with correct dates and labels.
- Attend biometric appointment for fingerprints and photo.
- Review everything to avoid errors or missing documents.
A well-prepared application improves your chances of approval and smooth processing.
UK FIANCÉ VISA: APPLICATION, FEES & PROCESS
Supporting Documentation
- Applicants must submit a completed online application form, pay the Home Office fee, and provide relevant documents.
- A valid passport must be provided to prove identity, travel history, and immigration compliance.
- Applications must include disclosure of previous immigration applications, and criminal convictions.
Evidence of Relationship, Language & Accommodation
- Evidence must clearly demonstrate a genuine and subsisting relationship through evidence.
- Applicants must provide valid CEFR-approved English test certificate or accepted exemption.
- Proof of suitable accommodation must confirm lawful occupancy and no reliance on public funds.
Financial Requirements and Exemptions
- Sponsors must normally meet the £29,000 income threshold using permitted financial evidence.
- Sponsors receiving specified benefits like Disability Living Allowance, Armed Forces Independence Payment, are exempted.
- For exemptions, applicants must still show sufficient funds and suitable accommodation without recourse to public funds.
Exceptional Circumstances and Alternative Funding
- Where no exemption applies, applicants may request consideration of exceptional circumstances.
- In such cases, the Home Office may accept broader financial sources, including savings, self-employment income, or third-party guarantees.
- Evidence must remain credible, well-documented, and sufficient to demonstrate financial sustainability in the UK.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- The Immigration Health Surcharge does not apply to the initial UK Fiancé Visa application.
- The IHS becomes payable when switching to a Spouse Visa after marriage within the UK.
- The surcharge amount depends on the length of the spouse visa and must be paid in full at that stage.
Expert Financial Guidance for UK Fiancé Visa Applications
Axis Solicitors specialise in UK Fiancé Visa applications and provide expert, up-to-date guidance to ensure financial evidence meets strict Home Office standards.
- Specialist support for UK Fiancé Visa financial requirements
- Clear guidance on income calculations and acceptable sources
- Careful review of financial documents for accuracy and compliance
- Support for employment, self-employment, savings, and other income
- Assistance with financial exemptions and alternative funding routes
- Tailored advice based on individual circumstances
- Reduced risk of delays, errors, and refusals
How to Navigate Outcomes, Extensions and Refusals of the UK Fiance Visa?
Processing Times and Practical Delays
- Standard processing for a Fiancé Visa averages up to 24 weeks, although some cases may be decided within 2–3 months.
- Priority service may result in a decision within 30 working days, subject to availability and case complexity.
- Processing can be delayed by biometric appointment availability, document verification, seasonal demand, or country-specific case handling.
After Approval and Entry to the UK
- Once approved, the Fiancé Visa allows entry to the UK for a period of 6 months, during which employment is not permitted.
- The applicant must marry or enter a civil partnership with their sponsor within this 6-month validity period.
- Failure to marry within this timeframe may require an extension application or result in loss of lawful status.
Switching to a Spouse Visa and Settlement Route
- After marriage, applicants must apply for a Spouse Visa before the Fiancé Visa expires to remain lawfully in the UK.
- The initial Spouse Visa is granted for 30 months and allows work, residence, and access to settlement pathways.
- A second 30-month extension completes 5 years of continuous residence, enabling eligibility for ILR.
Indefinite Leave to Remain and Citizenship
- After 5 years on a Spouse Visa, applicants may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, granting permanent residence.
- ILR removes immigration time limits and most visa restrictions.
- Eligible applicants may then apply for British Citizenship, completing the settlement journey.
Fiancé Visa Extensions
- Applicants unable to marry within the original 6 months may apply for a single extension of up to 6 additional months.
- Valid reasons must be clearly evidenced, such as illness, family emergencies, or unavoidable administrative delays.
- Strong proof of intent to marry, including venue bookings or registrar correspondence, is essential for approval.
Reasons for Visa Refusals
- Common refusal reasons include insufficient financial evidence, lack of genuine relationship proof, or failure to meet English language requirements.
- Applications may also be refused due to incomplete documentation, adverse immigration history, or undisclosed criminal records.
- Health-related issues, including failure to provide a required TB certificate, can also result in refusal.
Appeals and Judicial Review
- Where a right of appeal exists, applicants must lodge an appeal within 28 days of receiving the refusal decision.
- Appeals typically take between 6 and 12 months and require detailed legal arguments, evidence, and witness statements.
- Judicial Review may be pursued where a legal or procedural error occurred, and specialist legal advice is strongly recommended.
Reapplications and Professional Legal Support
- Reapplying after refusal is common and often successful when refusal reasons are properly addressed.
- Axis Solicitors provide full support including refusal analysis, financial exemption guidance, appeals, and reapplications.
- Legal services include evidence preparation, financial strategy development, child welfare arguments, and end-to-end case handling.
Why Clients Choose Axis Solicitors
Dedicated to results, driven by values, Axis Solicitors delivers legal support that’s personal, powerful, and proven.
Contact us today for expert guidance with your UK Fiancé Visa application.
Specialist Legal Support for UK Fiancé(e) Visa Applications
Axis Solicitors provide expert legal guidance for UK Fiancé(e) Visa applications, ensuring full compliance with the Immigration Rules and Home Office policy. Each application is carefully assessed and prepared on its individual merits, with a strong focus on accuracy, credibility, and evidential strength. Our structured approach reduces the risk of refusal and ensures applications are presented clearly and persuasively.
Expert Application Assistance and Representation
Axis Solicitors offer a complete, client-focused service covering every stage of the UK Fiancé(e) Visa process. From initial assessment to final decision, we manage applications with precision and clarity.
Our services include:
- Eligibility assessment and application strategy
- Preparation and review of all supporting documents
- Drafting legal representations and cover letters
- Ongoing case monitoring and Home Office correspondence
- Advice on extensions, appeals, and reapplications
We combine legal expertise with practical support to deliver efficient, reliable, and results-driven immigration services.
FAQ: Fiancé Visa
Yes, you must be engaged to apply and qualify. In particular, UKVI requirements imply that you and your partner must have at least had a ‘face-face meeting’ in person once to satisfy that you are in a genuine relationship before applying. Any evidence of meeting through the internet or a phone call is not considered; as a means to provide evidence to meet the genuine relationship criteria.
Note that once you enter the UK via this route, you are supposed to get married within 6-months, the validity period of the UK Fiancé Visa route. So depending on the individual merits, your circumstances are assessed differently by the UK immigration caseworkers.
No, you are not permitted to work or study while on a UK Fiancé Visa. This visa is specifically designed for individuals intending to marry their British or settled partner within six months of arriving in the UK.
However, you can gain these rights by:
- Entering the UK on your Fiancé Visa.
- Marrying your British partner within six months of arrival.
- Applying promptly to switch to a Spouse Visa.
Once you are married and have successfully switched to a Spouse Visa, you will be eligible to work or study without any restrictions. The Spouse Visa route can allow you to pursue employment or education opportunities in the UK while building a life with your partner.
The UK Fiancé Visa is valid for up to six months. This means you have six months from the date your visa is issued to enter the UK and marry your fiancé(e). Once you are married, you can then apply to switch to a Spouse Visa, which allows you to live in the UK long-term.
Yes, you can include dependent children on your UK Fiancé Visa application. They qualify as dependants if they meet the following criteria:
- Age: They must be under the age of 18 at the time of application.
- Independent Life: They must not be leading an independent life (e.g., married, financially independent).
Important Note: If your children are over 18 and not leading an independent life, they may still be eligible to apply for a visa alongside your application but under a different category.
Note that once you enter the UK via this route, you are supposed to get married within 6-months, the validity period of the UK Fiancé Visa route. So depending on the individual merits, your circumstances are assessed differently by the UK immigration caseworkers.
The most common reasons for UK Fiancé visa refusals include
- Incomplete or Inaccurate Information: Providing incomplete or false information on the application form can lead to refusal. Ensure all details are accurate and consistent.
- Insufficient Evidence of a Genuine Relationship: Failing to provide enough evidence to prove the authenticity and ongoing nature of your relationship with your fiancé(e) is a major cause of refusal.
- Failure to Meet Financial Requirements: You must demonstrate that you can financially support yourself and your partner (and any dependants) without relying on public funds.
- Failure to Meet English Language Requirements: You may need to prove your English language proficiency, depending on your nationality and circumstances.
Other Factors: Other reasons for refusal can include previous immigration violations, criminal history, or health concerns.