UK Marriage Visa Information

General Information About the UK Marriage Visa

The UK Marriage Visa, officially known as a Spouse Visa, allows a non-UK partner of a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK to join their spouse and live in the United Kingdom. This visa is a popular route for couples who wish to build their lives together in the UK, either after getting married abroad or within the country.

To be eligible, the applicant and their UK-based partner must be legally married and able to prove the genuineness of their relationship. The couple must also intend to live together permanently. The sponsoring partner must meet a minimum income threshold, which currently stands at £18,600 per year, with higher thresholds if there are dependent children involved. In addition to the financial requirement, suitable accommodation and a basic understanding of English are required.

The UK Marriage Visa is initially granted for 2 years and 9 months if applied for outside the UK, or 2 years and 6 months if applied from within. After this period, it is possible to extend the visa, and eventually, apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and later British citizenship.

The application process involves submitting various supporting documents, attending a biometric appointment, and sometimes an interview. Processing times can vary, but decisions are usually made within 2 to 12 weeks depending on the location and service used.

It is crucial to ensure that the application is complete and accurate, as mistakes or missing evidence can lead to delays or refusals. Working with a visa specialist or solicitor can improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Overall, the UK Marriage Visa provides a secure and structured route for married couples to live together in the UK and begin the path to settlement and citizenship.

Marriage Visa vs Fiancée Visa

If you're planning to join your partner in the UK, it's essential to understand the difference between the UK Marriage Visa and the UK Fiancée Visa. While both allow non-UK nationals to enter the UK on the basis of a genuine relationship, they serve different purposes and have distinct eligibility requirements.

The Marriage Visa, also known as a Spouse Visa, is intended for individuals who are already legally married to a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK. It allows the visa holder to live and work in the UK for an initial period of 2 years and 9 months (if applying from outside the UK), with the possibility of extending and eventually applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

On the other hand, the Fiancée Visa is for those who are engaged to be married to a British citizen or permanent resident. This visa is granted for a shorter duration—6 months—and does not permit employment. During this period, the couple must get married in the UK. After the marriage takes place, the visa holder must switch to a Marriage (Spouse) Visa to continue living in the country.

Both visa types require the sponsoring partner to meet a minimum income threshold, currently £18,600 per year, and demonstrate the authenticity of the relationship. English language proficiency and adequate accommodation are also mandatory for both applications.

In summary, the key distinction is that the Fiancée Visa is for those who plan to marry in the UK, while the Marriage Visa is for those who are already married. Choosing the correct visa from the start can save time, cost, and complications during the immigration process.