Unmarried Partner Visa UK
The Unmarried Partner visa is designed to enable unmarried partners of a British citizen or person settled in the United Kingdom to join their loved ones.
Applying for a UK Unmarried Partner visa can be overwhelming and confusing. Seeking professional advice from experienced immigration solicitors can help you navigate the application process smoothly.
If you require professional legal assistance for your Unmarried Partner visa application, you can contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors by calling 0203 959 7755 or filling in an online contact form. Our team of experienced immigration solicitors is available to provide guidance, answer your queries, and support you throughout the visa application process.
Table of Contents
- What is the Unmarried Partner visa UK?
- Requirements for Unmarried Partner visa UK
- UK Unmarried Partner visa document checklist
- Proof of relationship for the Unmarried Partner visa UK
- How to apply for an Unmarried Partner visa UK?
- UK Unmarried Partner visa processing time
- Visa application using super priority service
- Right to work on the Unmarried Partner visa UK
- How can our immigration solicitors help with your UK visa applications?
- How much does an immigration solicitor charge for a UK visa application?
- How to contact UK Unmarried Partner visa lawyers?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Unmarried Partner visa UK?
The Unmarried Partner visa is a type of UK family visa that allows unmarried partners of British citizens or settled persons to join them in the UK.
The Unmarried Partner visa, also known as a “de facto visa”, is meant for couples who have been in a genuine and subsisting relationship for at least two years.
The initial Unmarried Partner visa is usually granted for a period of 33 months. After this period, you may be eligible to apply for an extension for a further 30 months. After a total of five years in the UK on an Unmarried Partner visa, you may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain).
Requirements for Unmarried Partner visa UK
To be eligible for the Unmarried Partner visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage or civil partnership for at least two years.
- You must have the intention to live together permanently in the UK.
- You must meet the financial requirements, demonstrating that you can financially support yourselves without relying on public funds.
- You must have suitable accommodation available for you and your partner.
- You must meet the English language proficiency requirement.
- You must not fall under any of the general grounds for refusal.
You must also meet all the other eligibility requirements depending on your circumstances. Please contact us for an initial assessment to determine your eligibility, and to discuss the options.
Meeting these eligibility requirements does not guarantee a successful visa application. Each case is assessed individually, and the decision ultimately lies with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Our team of expert UK unmarried partner visa lawyers based in Hayes, London can guide you through the Unmarried Partner visa application process, ensuring that you have the best chance of success. Call us today at 0203 959 7755 to schedule a consultation.
Financial requirements for the Unmarried Partner visa
To meet the financial requirements, you must demonstrate that you and your partner have a combined income or savings above a certain threshold. The exact amount varies depending on your circumstances, such as whether you have children or not.
To be eligible for a Partner / Spouse visa UK, you and your partner must meet the minimum income requirement, which is currently set at £29,000 gross per year. This minimum income requirement rose from £18,600 to £29,000 on 11 April 2024.
English language requirement for Unmarried Partner visa
You'll need to prove your English language proficiency by passing an approved English language test. However, there are exemptions available in certain circumstances, such as if you're from a majority English-speaking country or if you have a degree taught in English.
You must pass at least level A1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ( CEFR ) scale for your first UK Unmarried Partner visa application.
UK Unmarried Partner visa document checklist
When applying for a UK Unmarried Partner visa, it is important to have all the necessary documents in order. Missing or incomplete paperwork can result in delays or even a rejected application. These documents may include:
- Valid passports for both you and your partner.
- Proof of your relationship with your partner, such as photographs, correspondence, or joint tenancy agreements.
- Evidence of your financial stability, including bank statements, payslips, or employment contracts.
- Proof of accommodation, such as a tenancy agreement or mortgage statement.
- English language proficiency test results.
Remember, the document checklist provided above is not exhaustive, and additional documents may be required based on your personal circumstances. Properly preparing your documentation is key to the success of your application. Contact us today to get a comprehensive list of supporting documents.
Proof of relationship for the Unmarried Partner visa UK
When applying for the Unmarried Partner visa UK, providing evidence of your genuine relationship is crucial. Adequate proof strengthens your application and enhances your chances of approval.
Gather the following documents:
- Photographs: Include pictures that capture your shared experiences, milestones, and travels together. These should demonstrate the genuine nature of your relationship.
- Communication records: Submit copies of chat logs, emails, letters, and other correspondences that highlight the regular and ongoing communication between you and your partner.
- Joint financial documents: Provide proof of joint bank accounts, joint tenancy agreements, or joint investments, showcasing your commitment to building a life together.
- Travel itineraries: Present copies of your travel tickets, itineraries, or boarding passes, demonstrating the trips you have taken together as a couple.
- Declaration of support: Provide a signed declaration from friends and family who can vouch for the authenticity of your relationship.
- Other supporting documents: Any additional documents that demonstrate the cohabitation, shared responsibilities, or joint commitments between you and your partner.
Submit comprehensive evidence of your genuine relationship to strengthen your Unmarried Partner visa application.
How to apply for an Unmarried Partner visa UK?
Whether you’re in the UK or outside the UK, you must apply online.
Step | Description |
---|---|
Gather Required Documents | Before starting your application, it is crucial to gather all the necessary documents to support your eligibility. |
Complete Online Application Form | Fill out the online application form with accurate and up-to-date information about yourself, your partner, and your circumstances. |
Pay Visa Application Fee | Along with your application, you will be required to pay the associated fees. |
Book and Attend Appointments | Book an appointment at a UKVCAS centre to provide biometric information including fingerprints and photographs. |
Waiting for Decision | Wait for a decision on your application. The processing time of a UK visa application can vary depending on the country from which you are applying and the type of service. |
Navigating the Unmarried Partner visa UK application process can be complicated. That's where Moeen & Co. Solicitors come in. With our expertise and guidance in immigration law, we can ease your journey toward a successful visa application.
If you require any assistance or have further questions about the application process, feel free to contact us at Moeen & Co. Solicitors. Our team of expert immigration lawyers is here to guide you and provide the support you need.
UK Unmarried Partner visa processing time
Unmarried Partner visa applications submitted from outside the UK using standard service are currently taking an average of 24 weeks to process. However, you may be eligible to use priority service to get a faster decision.
If the Unmarried Partner visa application is made from inside the UK, the Home Office generally takes up to 8 weeks to make the decision.
The processing time for a UK visa application can vary depending on several factors, including the type of visa application, the country from which you are applying, and the volume of applications being processed by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
All the applicants are advised to check the latest information about UK visa application processing time on the official UK government website either applying from inside the UK or outside the UK.
Visa application using super priority service
If you require a decision on your visa application urgently, you may be eligible to use the "Super Priority Service" or the "Priority Service", which offers faster processing times for an additional fee. These services aim to provide a decision on your visa application within 24 hours or 5 working days, respectively.
To get a faster decision on your UK visa application, you'll need to pay £1,000 for the "Super Priority Service" or £500 for the "Priority Service" fee per applicant in addition to the visa application fee.
Right to work on the Unmarried Partner visa UK
UK Unmarried Partner visa not only allows you to join your unmarried partner in the United Kingdom but also grants you the right to work.
The Unmarried Partner visa allows unmarried partners to live and work in the UK for a certain period. It is important to understand the conditions and limitations surrounding employment under this visa category to ensure compliance with UK immigration regulations.
Conditions for Employment
As an unmarried partner visa holder, you have the right to work in the UK without restriction. You can undertake any employment, be it full-time or part-time, or engage in self-employment.
It is worth noting that you are not required to obtain a separate work permit or sponsorship from your employer. You have the freedom to seek employment opportunities in various sectors, subject to meeting the employer's specific job requirements and qualifications.
Limitations and Restrictions
While you have the right to work in the UK as an unmarried partner visa holder, certain limitations and restrictions apply:
- You cannot access public funds or welfare benefits while on an unmarried partner visa.
- You must not engage in any employment considered 'prohibited' or 'unacceptable' under UK immigration rules.
- You should adhere to the conditions and restrictions mentioned on your visa, such as restrictions on specific industries or sectors.
It is crucial to familiarise yourself with these limitations and restrictions to avoid any violations that could jeopardise your visa status.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding your right to work on the Unmarried Partner visa, it is advisable to seek legal advice from experienced immigration solicitors.
For expert guidance and assistance with your Unmarried Partner visa application, you can reach out to Moeen & Co. Solicitors. Contact us today at 0203 959 7755 to schedule a consultation with our dedicated team of immigration experts.
How can our immigration solicitors help with your UK visa applications?
Navigating the UK visa application process can be complex and stressful, especially if English is not your first language or if you are unfamiliar with UK immigration laws. Hiring an immigration solicitor provides peace of mind, knowing that you have professional support to guide you through every step of the process.
Here are some ways in which our team of highly experienced UK immigration solicitors can assist:
- Legal Expertise: Our immigration solicitors have in-depth knowledge of UK immigration laws, policies, and procedures. We can assess your eligibility for different types of visas, advise you on the most suitable visa option, and ensure that your application complies with all relevant legal requirements.
- Consultation and Advice: If you are uncertain about the visa type that best suits your needs or require guidance on the application process, we offer consultations to answer your questions.
- Application Preparation: Our immigration solicitors will fill in your UK visa application forms accurately and submit them.
- Supporting Documents: We will advise you on the required documents to be submitted in support of your visa application and ensure that they meet the specific requirements of the visa category you are applying for.
- Legal Representation: We can represent you in communications with the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department, embassy, or consulate handling your application. We can correspond with immigration authorities on your behalf, respond to requests for additional information, and address any concerns or queries raised during the processing of your application.
- Appeals and Administrative Reviews: If your visa application is refused, our immigration solicitors can help you explore options for appealing the decision or requesting an administrative review. We can prepare and submit appeal or review applications, gather additional evidence to support your case and represent you at appeal hearings or review proceedings.
If you have any questions or want assistance with your UK visa application, please call our expert immigration solicitors based in London at 0203 959 7755. Alternatively, fill in our online contact form, and one of our UK immigration experts will get back in touch with you soon!
How much does an immigration solicitor charge for a UK visa application?
At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, our immigration solicitors in London charge an affordable fixed fee for complete legal services for your UK visa application. The agreed fixed fee will depend on the type of visa application and the complexity of the matter. Learn more about our legal fees.
How to contact UK Unmarried Partner visa lawyers?
If you have questions or need help with your UK Unmarried Partner visa application, you can contact our team of immigration solicitors in London by calling 0203 959 7755. Alternatively, you can fill in our online contact form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You can prove your relationship for the UK Unmarried Partner visa through various types of evidence, such as joint financial documents, shared accommodation, photographs together, correspondence, and statements from family and friends.
If you and your partner have been in a long-distance relationship, it is important to provide additional evidence to prove the genuineness of your relationship. This can include records of visits, communication, and future plans to live together in the UK.
In some cases, it may be possible to switch to an Unmarried Partner visa from another visa category while you're in the UK. However, the specific rules and requirements for switching visas can vary, so it's advisable to seek guidance from an experienced immigration solicitor.
If your Unmarried Partner visa application is refused, it's advisable to seek advice from an experienced immigration solicitor to understand your options and address any issues with your application.
Hiring a Unmarried Partner visa lawyer can significantly increase your chances of a successful application. They have expertise in navigating the complexities of UK immigration law, ensuring that your application is complete, accurate, and meets all eligibility requirements.
Contact Immigration Solicitors in London
If you need immigration advice or help with any type of UK visa application, British citizenship application or sponsorship licence application, contact our team of immigration solicitors in London on 0203 959 7755 or fill in our enquiry form to get reliable & confidential advice and help you need.
We're authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), so you know you're in safe hands.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Moeen & Co. Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.