Securing an Unmarried Partner Visa UK can be a complex process, but with proper understanding and preparation, you can navigate the requirements successfully. This guide will outline the key steps and criteria involved, ensuring you have all the necessary information to increase your chances of a successful application.
Understanding the Unmarried Partner Visa
The Unmarried Partner Visa is designed for non-EU nationals who are in a long-term relationship with a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK. This visa allows you to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 30 months, with the possibility of extending it. It is essential to demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and akin to marriage.
Proposed Civil Partner Visa
For those in same-sex relationships who are not yet married, the UK offers the Proposed Civil Partner Visa. This visa is designed for individuals intending to enter into a civil partnership in the UK. Similar to the Unmarried Partner Visa, you must demonstrate a genuine relationship and meet financial and English language requirements. Once you have entered into the civil partnership, you can then switch to a Civil Partner Visa, allowing you to stay in the UK for a longer period and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Eligibility Criteria
Relationship Proof
To qualify for an Unmarried Partner Visa, you must provide evidence that you have been living together in a relationship similar to marriage or civil partnership for at least two years. Acceptable documents include joint bank statements, tenancy agreements, utility bills, and photographs together. Affidavits from friends and family attesting to your relationship can also be helpful.
Financial Requirements
You and your partner must meet certain financial criteria to prove you can support yourselves without public funds. The minimum income requirement is £18,600 per year. If you have children, this amount increases by £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child. You can meet this requirement through employment, self-employment, or savings.
English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate your ability to speak and understand English. This can be proven by passing an approved English language test at CEFR level A1 or higher or by holding a degree that was taught in English.
Application Process
Step 1: Gather Documentation
Collect all necessary documents to support your application. This includes proof of your relationship, financial documents, evidence of English language proficiency, and a valid passport.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
The application for an Unmarried Partner Visa is completed online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Ensure you fill out all sections accurately and truthfully.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
The application fee for an Unmarried Partner Visa is £1,523 if applying from outside the UK and £1,033 if applying from within the UK. Additionally, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £624 per year of the visa.
Step 4: Attend the Biometric Appointment
After submitting your application, you will need to attend a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph. This is a mandatory step for all applicants.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
The processing time for an Unmarried Partner Visa can vary, but it typically takes around 8 weeks if you apply from within the UK and up to 12 weeks if you apply from outside the UK. You may opt for a priority service at an additional cost to expedite the process.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Insufficient Evidence of Relationship
One of the most common reasons for visa denial is insufficient evidence of the relationship. To avoid this, ensure you provide a comprehensive range of documents covering the entire two-year period. It is better to provide too much evidence than too little.
Financial Requirements Not Met
If you cannot meet the financial requirements, consider alternative solutions such as combining income from different sources or providing evidence of substantial savings. You may also explore the possibility of your partner securing a higher-paying job.
Language Barriers
If you are struggling with the English language requirement, invest in a preparatory course to help you pass the necessary test. This investment can significantly increase your chances of a successful application.
Extending Your Visa
If your initial application is successful, you will be granted a visa for 30 months. As your visa nears its expiration, you can apply for an extension for another 30 months. To qualify for an extension, you must continue to meet the initial visa requirements, including demonstrating that your relationship is still genuine and meeting financial criteria.
Spouse Visa Extension After 5 Years
Spouse Visa Extension After 5 Years on an Unmarried Partner Visa, you may be eligible to apply for a Spouse Visa extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). If you choose to apply for ILR, you must continue to meet all the visa requirements, including maintaining a genuine relationship and meeting financial criteria. Additionally, you will need to pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses your knowledge of British culture and history. If granted, ILR allows you to live in the UK indefinitely without time restrictions.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After spending five years in the UK on an Unmarried Partner Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR allows you to live in the UK without any time restrictions. To qualify, you must continue to meet all the visa requirements and pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses your knowledge of British culture and history.
Conclusion
Obtaining an Unmarried Partner Visa in the UK requires careful planning, thorough documentation, and an understanding of the various requirements. By following the steps outlined in this guide and addressing potential challenges proactively, you can significantly enhance your chances of a successful application. Remember, the key to success is demonstrating the genuine nature of your relationship and ensuring you meet all financial and language criteria. Good luck with your application!
