Shabana Bukhari 
In today’s blog, readers will obtain a complete guide to obtaining a fiancé visa in Reading. Requirements, application process, and tips for a smooth experience will all be outlined here.
What is a Fiancé Visa?
A fiancé visa is a type of UK family visa which lasts for 6 months. It is for those that plan to get married in the UK to a British partner or someone already residing in UK that has obtained legal settlement. This is discussed further below.
Please note that the fiancé visa is different to the UK spouse visa.
Requirements for a Fiancé Visa in reading
The eligibility requirements for a Fiancé Visa in reading include:
- You and your partner must both be over the age of 18 years old.
- Your partner must be a British or Irish citizen, or have settled status in the UK, or pre-settled status (those from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein can gain this).
- Intention for you and your partner to permanently live together in the UK.
- English language requirement. You can prove this if you have an eligible qualification and these can be browsed here: Family visas: apply, extend or switch: Knowledge of English – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Alternatively, you may have to pass an English language test to be eligible at least A1 on CEFR.
- Meet the financial criteria which means that your partner must have an annual income of a minimum of £29,000. This amount may be adjusted if your partner obtains disability or carer benefits.
Please discuss this financial criterion with our team at Henleaze Law if you are unsure about how you can prove the financial requirement. Note that the requirement can either be based on your income, or in certain cases, you may be able to use your savings.
- You must prove that you have been in a subsisting relationship with your partner for at least two years to the date of your application for a fiancé visa. However, this requirement may be disregarded if there are barriers to you living together due to studying or working in different place, or you are not permitted to live together as it is not accepted in your culture. To prove your relationship, you must provide evidence that is either from a bank, landlord, utility company, medical professional or one that stems from the government. The information enclosed must confirm your relationship and it is imperative that it is less than 4 years old.
- You must also provide proof that any possible previous marriage or civil partnerships have ended.
Note that these eligibility requirements must be met by both you as the applicant and your ‘sponsor’, your partner.
Fiancé Visa Application Process
The application process for a fiancé visa is as follows:
- Prepare the evidence needed to complete your application above, such as financial, relationship and English language proof.
- If you reside outside the UK then you must apply online using this link: Confirm your visa type (visas-immigration.service.gov.uk). If you reside in the UK, then you must likewise apply online using this link: Family Route (visas-immigration.service.gov.uk).
- Pay the fee.
- Await the decision.
Tips for a smooth experience
For a smooth application experience ensure that you meet all the respective eligibility requirements laid out above and have the supporting evidence to prove these.
Many applications are refused by the home Office due to a lack of robust evidence and so it is pertinent that you seek advice on how much and what else you may have to include in your application.
FAQs about Fiancé Visa in reading
How long does a fiancé allow me to stay in the UK?
A fiancé visa allows successful applicants to stay in the UK for 6 months.
What type of visa is a fiancé visa?
A fiancé visa is a type of UK family visa.
Is a fiancé visa the same as a spouse visa?
No, a fiancé visa is not the same as a spouse visa.
Does a fiancé visa enable me to study or work in the UK?
No, a fiancé visa does not give you a right to work or study in the UK. You must marry your partner in the UK first and then a successful application for a spouse visa will allow you to do this.
What happens if my partner and I don’t live together, how do we prove our relationship?
If you do not live with your partner and hence the methods to prove your relationship discussed above would be redundant then you should provide evidence that shows you communicate regularly, financially support one another, spend time together. The latter can be shown through holidays or events.
How long does an application for a fiancé visa take?
How long your application for a fiancé visa takes depends on where you apply from. If you apply from outside the UK then it is estimated 24 weeks, but if you apply from inside the UK proving that you meet the financial and English language requirements this will be usually 8 weeks.
Can I pay for a faster processing time?
Yes, you can apply for a faster processing time by following this link: Get a faster decision on your visa or settlement application: Applying for a faster decision – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
What if I cannot prove some of the eligibility requirements for a fiancé visa in reading?
If you cannot prove some of the eligibility requirements for a fiancé visa then you may be able to argue other grounds. For instance, human rights or alternatively if you have a child in the UK who is a British or Irish citizen or who has resided in the UK for 7 years and hence it would be unreasonable for them to leave the UK
Summary about Fiancé Visa in reading
In this blog, readers have obtained a complete guide to obtaining a fiancé visa in Reading. The blog covers everything you need to know about securing a fiancé visa in Reading, including detailed information about the requirements, the step-by-step application process, and practical tips for ensuring a smooth and successful experience.
Obtaining a fiancé visa in Reading involves several key steps, and our blog breaks down each part of the process. From gathering the necessary documentation to understanding the eligibility criteria, we’ve outlined the essentials to help you navigate this often complex procedure. Our comprehensive guide to the fiancé visa in Reading aims to provide clarity and confidence as you prepare your application.
For personalized assistance and expert advice on your fiancé visa in Reading, please contact our experienced team at Henleaze Law. With a wealth of experience in this area, our specialists can offer invaluable support throughout your application process. Reach out to us at 0117 908 4625 or via email for help and advice on applications for fiancé visas.
