What is a UK Fiance Visa?

A UK fiance visa allows foreign nationals who are engaged to a British citizen or a person with settled status in the UK to enter the country with the intention of getting married or entering a civil partnership within six months. This visa is part of the broader family visa category and is designed specifically for engaged couples who plan to start their life together in the UK.

Who Can Apply for a Fiance Visa?

To qualify for a UK fiance visa, both the applicant (the foreign fiance) and their partner (the British citizen or settled person) must meet several criteria:

  1. Age: Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
  2. Relationship: You must prove that you are in a genuine relationship. This could include evidence of your time together, photos, correspondence, and details about your relationship.
  3. Intention to Marry: You must show that you plan to marry or enter into a civil partnership within six months of arriving in the UK.
  4. Financial Requirements: Your UK-based partner must meet the minimum income threshold, which is currently £18,600 annually, or show savings of £62,500 if they do not meet the income requirement. This is to ensure you both can live in the UK without requiring public funds.
  5. Accommodation: You must demonstrate that you have suitable accommodation arranged in the UK.
  6. English Language Requirement: The applicant must meet the English language requirement, usually by passing an approved English language test unless they come from a majority English-speaking country.

Required Documents for a UK Fiance Visa Application

To apply for a UK fiance visa, you will need to gather several documents to support your application:

  1. Valid Passport: You must provide your passport and any other travel documents.
  2. Proof of Relationship: This can include photos together, chat logs, call histories, letters, or statements from family and friends.
  3. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, payslips, or tax returns showing your partner's income or savings.
  4. Accommodation Details: A tenancy agreement or mortgage statement, along with a description of where you will live.
  5. English Language Test Results: If required, you’ll need to provide proof that you’ve passed an approved English language test.
  6. Intention to Marry: Evidence that you’ve made arrangements for your wedding or civil partnership, such as booking a venue or making deposits.

UK Fiance Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a UK fiance visa can vary depending on where you're applying from and the complexity of your case. On average, it takes around 2 to 3 months for a standard fiance visa application to be processed. There are also priority services available for an additional fee that can expedite your visa decision.