UK Unmarried Partner Visa Under The 10-Year Route

You can apply for a UK Unmarried Partner visa under the 10-year route if you do not fully meet the requirements set out in Appendix FM of the immigration rules.

The Unmarried Partner visa is intended to allow the unmarried partners of British citizens or individuals settled in the UK to reunite with their loved ones.

It lets partners live together without needing to get married. This visa supports genuine, meaningful relationships that don't fit traditional marriage.

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.

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What is an Unmarried Partner visa?

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.

Applicants must apply to extend their Unmarried Partner visa every 30 months (2.5 years) until they reach the 10-year mark to continue living in the UK with their partners.

After a total of ten years in the UK on an Unmarried Partner visa, you may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain).

What is Unmarried Partner visa (10-year route)?

You can apply for a UK Unmarried visa under the 10-year route if you do not fully meet the requirements outlined in Appendix FM of the immigration rules.

Typically, applicants who are unable to meet the English language requirement or the financial threshold of earning £29,000 gross annually opt to switch to the 10-year Unmarried Partner visa route.

With the 10-year route, you can apply to settle in the UK after completing 10 years on an Unmarried Partner visa. However, if you meet the requirements of Appendix FM during this time, you may switch to the 5-year spouse visa route at any point.

Requirements for the Unmarried Partner visa under the 10-year route

Applying for an Unmarried Partner visa requires meeting certain criteria.

Age Requirements

Both partners must be at least 18 years old. This rule is key because it shows they can legally be in a partnership. It's a basic step for applying for this visa.

Relationship Duration

Couples need to show they've lived together for at least two years. This proves their relationship is stable and serious. It's a big part of the visa application.

Financial Requirements

Although financial requirements are less strict on the 10-year route, providing evidence of your income can help support your case.

You must have enough money to support yourselves without relying on public funds.

Adequate Accommodation

You must demonstrate that you have adequate accommodation for yourself and your partner.

You need to show that:

• Your home is big enough for both partners
• You legally have access to the property by owning it or renting it

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.

UK Unmarried Partner visa document checklist

When applying for a UK Unmarried Partner visa under the 10-year route, 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.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a tenancy agreement or mortgage statement.
• Although financial requirements are less strict on the 10-year route, providing evidence of your income can help support your case.

Proof of relationship for the Unmarried Partner visa

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 under the 10-year route?

Once you have all your documents ready, you can apply online. Go to the UK Government website for the application portal. You must:

• Fill out the online application form on the UK Government website.
• Upload your supporting documents in an acceptable format.
• Pay the required fee using a debit or credit card.
• Schedule a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.
• Attend the appointment and complete identity verification.
• Wait for the processing of your application to begin after your biometrics are submitted.

UK Unmarried Partner visa processing time

Unmarried Partner visa applications submitted from outside the UK using standard service are currently taking an average of 12 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 6-8 weeks to make the decision.

How can our immigration solicitors help with your UK visa applications?

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)