Appendix FM Partner Visa – Everything You Need to Know

1. Introduction: What Is Appendix FM for Partner Visas?

Appendix FM is a section of the UK Immigration Rules that outlines the requirements for family-based visas, including the Partner Visa. This visa allows UK citizens or settled persons to bring their non-UK partners to live in the UK. Appendix FM specifies eligibility requirements, financial criteria, English language proficiency, and other necessary conditions for the Partner Visa application. This guide will help you understand the application process and meet the requirements for a successful visa outcome.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Appendix FM Partner Visa

To qualify for a UK Partner Visa under Appendix FM, both the applicant (non-UK partner) and the sponsor (UK partner) must meet specific requirements:

Relationship Requirements: You must be married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term relationship (lasting at least two years) with a UK citizen or a settled person.
Intent to Live Together: Both partners must intend to live together permanently in the UK.
Age Requirement: Both partners must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
Genuine and Subsisting Relationship: You must provide evidence to prove that the relationship is genuine, ongoing, and committed.

3. Financial Requirements for Appendix FM Partner Visa

One of the key conditions of the Appendix FM Partner Visa is meeting the financial requirement to show that the UK sponsor can support the applicant without relying on public funds.

Minimum Income Threshold: The UK sponsor must demonstrate a minimum gross annual income of £18,600. If you have dependent children, the income threshold increases by £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.
Alternative Financial Means: If the sponsor’s income is below the threshold, they may meet the requirement through savings of at least £62,500 or a combination of income and savings.
Acceptable Income Sources: Income can come from employment, self-employment, pension, rental income, or cash savings, but it must be verifiable.

4. Financial Evidence Required for Appendix FM Partner Visa

Supporting documentation is crucial for proving the financial requirement, and these must include:

Payslips and Bank Statements: Typically from the last 6 months.
Employment Letter: Confirmation of employment status and income from the UK sponsor’s employer.
Self-Employment Documents: If self-employed, provide tax returns, business bank statements, and accountant letters.
Savings Proof: Bank statements showing held savings for at least six months if using savings.

5. English Language Requirement for Appendix FM Partner Visa

The non-UK partner must prove their English language proficiency by:

Approved English Language Test: Passing a test at CEFR Level A1 for initial applications (A2 level for extensions).
Degree Taught in English: Providing evidence of a degree taught in English, or using a NARIC certification to confirm equivalency.
Exemptions: Some applicants, such as those from majority English-speaking countries, may be exempt from this requirement.

6. Required Documents for Appendix FM Partner Visa Application

A comprehensive document package is critical for success. Documents typically required include:

Valid Passports: Copies of both partners’ passports.
Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificates, photos together, messages, and other evidence proving a genuine and subsisting relationship.
Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will live together in the UK, such as a tenancy agreement or homeownership documents.
Financial Evidence: Detailed documentation showing the sponsor’s income or savings.
English Language Proof: Certificates from an approved English test or NARIC certification.

7. How to Apply for the Appendix FM Partner Visa

Applications are typically submitted online, followed by an appointment at a Visa Application Centre for document verification and biometric collection. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Complete the Online Application Form: Fill out the Appendix FM application form on the UK government’s visa portal.
Pay the Visa and Immigration Health Surcharge Fees: The standard Partner Visa fee is £1,538 if applying from outside the UK, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of approximately £624 per year.
Submit Documents and Biometrics: Attend your appointment to submit documents, biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and pay any additional service fees.
Wait for a Decision: Processing times vary, typically 12 weeks for standard applications, though priority services are available for faster processing.

8. Duration and Conditions of the Partner Visa

The initial Partner Visa is usually granted for 30 months if applying within the UK (33 months if applying from outside the UK). After this period, you can apply to extend the visa for another 30 months.

Path to Settlement: After five years in the UK on a Partner Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to permanent residency.
Work and Study Rights: Partner Visa holders are permitted to work and study in the UK without restrictions.

9. Extending the Partner Visa

If you need to extend your Partner Visa, you must apply for an extension before your current visa expires. The extension process requires you to demonstrate that you still meet the financial, relationship, and English language requirements.

Application Process: Submit an extension application online with updated documents and the visa extension fee.
English Requirement Update: You must meet a higher CEFR A2 English language level for an extension application.

10. What to Do if Your Application Is Refused

If your application is refused, you may have options to appeal, request an Administrative Review, or reapply. Steps to take if you receive a refusal:

Review Refusal Grounds: Understand the reasons for refusal to address any issues.
Appeal Rights: Some applicants may have a right to appeal under human rights grounds.
Reapplication: You may correct the issues and submit a new application if ineligibility was due to incomplete documentation or minor errors.

11. Frequently Asked Questions

Can my partner apply from inside the UK? Yes, if your partner is already in the UK on a valid visa of more than six months.
How long does the process take? Standard processing usually takes up to 12 weeks, though priority options can reduce the time.
Can I work in the UK on a Partner Visa? Yes, Partner Visa holders have the right to work and study in the UK without restrictions.

12. Conclusion

Applying for a UK Partner Visa under Appendix FM can be complex, requiring careful attention to eligibility, financial, and documentation requirements. By understanding each step and preparing the necessary documents, applicants can increase their chances of a successful outcome and enjoy a new chapter together in the UK.