1. What is the UK Unmarried Partner Visa?
The Unmarried Partner Visa is a type of Family Visa that allows the unmarried partner of a UK citizen or resident to live in the UK. It’s often called the De Facto Visa and applies to long-term partners who can prove they’ve lived together in a committed relationship similar to marriage for at least two years.
2. Who is Eligible for the Unmarried Partner Visa?
To be eligible, applicants must meet specific requirements, including relationship, financial, and accommodation criteria.
Basic Eligibility Criteria:
- Length of Relationship: You must prove that you have been in a committed relationship similar to marriage for at least two years.
- Partner’s Status: Your partner must be a UK citizen, have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settled status, or hold refugee status in the UK.
- Intention to Live Together: You must intend to live together permanently in the UK.
Other Requirements:
- Age: Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old.
- Genuine Relationship: Evidence that your relationship is ongoing and genuine.
- English Language: Proficiency in English at A1 level on the CEFR scale.
- Financial Requirement: The sponsor must have an income of at least £18,600 annually, with additional requirements for dependents.
3. Financial Requirements for the UK Unmarried Partner Visa
The minimum income requirement is £18,600 per year. If you have dependent children, the amount increases:
- For 1 child: Additional £3,800 (total £22,400).
- For each additional child: Additional £2,400.
Income can be proven through:
- Employment: Payslips and bank statements.
- Self-Employment: Tax returns, business records.
- Savings: Cash savings of £62,500 or more can substitute income.
4. Required Documents for Unmarried Partner Visa
Proof of Relationship
- Cohabitation Evidence: Documents showing shared address for at least 2 years, such as joint tenancy agreements, utility bills, or council tax bills.
- Photos Together: Photographs over time, showing a relationship history.
- Correspondence: Letters, emails, or other proof of communication over the relationship’s duration.
Financial Proof
- Payslips and Bank Statements: To verify income.
- Savings Statements: If using savings to meet financial requirements.
- Employer Letter: Confirming employment details.
Accommodation Proof
- Rental Agreement or Mortgage Statement: Proving you have suitable accommodation.
Additional Documents
- Valid Passport: Passport copies of both the applicant and sponsor.
- English Language Certificate: An A1 level English test result, such as IELTS for UKVI.
- Other Identification Documents: National ID, birth certificates, etc.
5. Application Process for the UK Unmarried Partner Visa
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Start by filling out the Appendix FM Partner Visa application form on the UK government website.
Step 2: Pay the Visa and IHS Fees
- Application Fee: £1,538 if applying from outside the UK or £1,048 for extensions or switching visas from within the UK.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year.
Step 3: Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Centre to submit your biometric information (fingerprints and photo).
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
Upload your documents through the UKVI system or submit them at your biometric appointment, depending on the application location.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Processing times can vary:
- Standard Processing: Up to 12 weeks.
- Priority Processing: Available for faster processing (additional fee may apply).
6. Validity and Renewal of the Unmarried Partner Visa
The initial visa is typically valid for 2.5 years (30 months). After this period, you can apply for an extension, provided you still meet the eligibility criteria. After 5 years on an unmarried partner visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Do we need to live together for two years to apply for the visa?
Yes, proof of cohabitation for at least two years is required to demonstrate a committed, marriage-like relationship. - Can we use savings instead of income for the financial requirement?
Yes, savings of £62,500 or more can meet the requirement if income falls short. - What if I don’t pass the English language test?
You’ll need to retake the test to meet the language requirement before submitting your application. - How long does it take to get a decision?
Standard processing is around 8-12 weeks. Priority options may reduce this time. - Can I work in the UK with an unmarried partner visa?
Yes, the visa permits you to work and study in the UK.
8. Conclusion
The UK Unmarried Partner Visa is ideal for long-term partners who wish to live together in the UK without marriage. By ensuring you meet the financial, relationship, and language requirements and gathering the necessary documentation, you can improve your chances of a successful application and begin your life together in the UK.