The United Kingdom is known for its welcoming and accommodating nature towards immigrants UK residents who are married or engaged to someone from outside the European Economic Area can bring their partner to live with them in the UK However, this process requires following certain procedures, submitting the correct documents, and having patience as processing times can be lengthy.
Here is everything you need to know about the marriage application for partner to live in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria
A UK resident can only sponsor their partner’s visa application if they are legally married or engaged To be eligible, the couple must be 18 years or older They must prove that they intend to live together permanently in the UK, and the non-UK resident partner must meet the English language requirements.
Documents Required
The couple needs to provide a comprehensive and accurate application with all the required documents These documents include a valid marriage certificate, fiancé(e) visa, birth certificate, valid passport, and proof of English proficiency.
Additionally, they must provide proof of a genuine and subsisting relationship This can include joint bank account statements, proof of joint tenancy, photographs of the couple together, and evidence of regular communication.
The Application Process
Once the couple has gathered all the required documents, they can begin the application process They should first complete an online application form, known as the application for a family visa.
Next, the non-UK resident partner must attend an appointment at the consulate or embassy in their home country, where they will submit their biometric information and supporting documents.
After submitting the application, it can take up to 12 weeks to receive a decision Marriage application for partner to live in UK. However, this may vary depending on the individual case and circumstance.
Fees
The cost to apply for this visa is currently £1,523, and the fees are subject to change over time Additionally, there may be extra charges for certain services, such as the biometric appointment.
Renewal
If the couple plans to stay in the UK for a more extended period, they will need to renew their visa before it expires Couples can apply to extend their visa up to two and a half years before it expires.
After living in the UK for five years on the spouse visa, the non-UK resident partner can apply for an “Indefinite Leave to Remain” (ILR), granting them permanent residency in the UK Once the individual has achieved ILR, they can then apply for British Citizenship.
Conclusion
If you are in a relationship or married to someone from outside the EEA and want to bring them to live with you in the UK, the application process can often be confusing and stress-inducing Proper planning, consultation with an immigration lawyer, and submitting all required documents can add to the success rate of your application and make the process more straightforward.
The UK government does not take the process of immigration or granting a visa lightly Therefore, it’s essential to follow the eligibility criteria, provide necessary documents and be patient While these may seem like time-consuming and frustrating processes, completing them thoroughly can lead to the formation of a happy and harmonious family life in the UK.
Marriage Application for Partner to Live in UK: A Comprehensive Guide