Getting engaged is a special milestone – but for international couples, it also marks the beginning of a complex legal process. If you or your partner is not a British citizen or settled in the UK, you may need to apply for a Fiancé Visa to legally marry in the country. This visa grants you six months to enter the UK and marry your British or settled partner – after which you’ll need to switch to a Spouse Visa to remain in the UK longer-term.
With strict eligibility requirements, financial rules and documentary evidence required, it’s essential to understand the full process before applying. In this guide, we explain what the Fiancé Visa is, who can apply and what steps you’ll need to take to prepare a strong application.
What is a UK Fiancé Visa?
The Fiancé Visa is a short-term visa issued by the UK Home Office that allows a non-British partner to enter the UK to get married or enter into a civil partnership. It is valid for six months and is intended for couples who plan to marry shortly after arrival.
Unlike other visa routes – such as the standard Visitor Visa – the Fiancé Visa is specifically designed for marriage. However, it comes with several restrictions. You are not allowed to work, claim public funds or extend your stay beyond the initial six months unless you apply for further leave (typically via a Spouse Visa).
It’s important to note that marriage must take place within the six-month validity. If you do not marry within this time or fail to switch visas before expiry, you may need to leave the country and reapply.
Who is eligible to apply for a Fiancé Visa?
The Fiancé Visa is available to engaged partners of British citizens, individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain or those with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. Both partners must be over the age of 18 and must intend to marry in the UK during the visa period.
The relationship must be genuine and subsisting, meaning you must be able to demonstrate a real, ongoing connection. You’ll need to provide strong evidence of this, including photographs together, travel itineraries, communication logs or proof of having lived together previously. The Home Office is thorough in assessing whether your relationship meets the required standard, so preparation and transparency are vital.
Financial requirements and accommodation rules
One of the most critical parts of a Fiancé Visa application is meeting the financial threshold. The sponsoring partner – the British citizen or settled person – must have a minimum annual income of £18,600. This amount increases if children are involved who are not British citizens or do not have settled status.
The income can come from various sources, including employment, self-employment, pensions or savings. If relying on cash savings alone, you must show at least £62,500 held for a minimum of six months. Evidence such as payslips, bank statements and employment contracts will be required.
In addition to financial support, you’ll need to show that you and your partner have suitable accommodation arranged in the UK. This could be a rental property, owned home or even staying with family – but it must meet certain standards and not be overcrowded. A property inspection report is not mandatory but can help strengthen your case.
English language requirements
To qualify for a Fiancé Visa, the applicant must prove they have a basic knowledge of the English language. This can be done by passing an approved English language test at A1 level or above.
Exemptions exist for applicants over 65, those with a physical or mental condition that prevents testing or individuals from majority English-speaking countries (such as the USA, Canada or Australia). However, most applicants will need to provide a valid test certificate from a Home Office-approved provider.
What happens after you get married?
Once you’re married or in a civil partnership, you’ll need to switch from the Fiancé Visa to a Spouse Visa. This must be done before the Fiancé Visa expires – you cannot stay in the UK under the original visa once the six months are up.
The Spouse Visa allows you to remain in the UK for 30 months, with the option to renew and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. It also allows you to work and access more rights than the Fiancé Visa. It’s important to budget for this transition early, as the Spouse Visa application comes with its own fees and evidence requirements.
Need help with a Fiancé Visa application?
Applying for a Fiancé Visa can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with UK immigration law. At Osbourne Pinner Solicitors, our immigration solicitors are experienced in handling complex visa applications and can help you prepare your documents, meet the eligibility criteria and guide you through the process from start to finish.
We offer a free 30-minute consultation to assess your case and answer your questions. Contact us today via the form below, call 0203 983 508 or email [email protected] to speak to one of our immigration solicitors. Whether you’re at the start of your journey or ready to apply, we’re here to help.
You can come to our offices in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus or Manchester – or speak to us on a video call if you’d prefer a remote consultation.
