Have you been in a committed relationship with a UK resident but are not legally married or in a civil partnership? Are you looking for a way to live together in the UK without the complications of long-distance separation? The Unmarried Partner Visa offers a solution for couples who can prove their relationship is genuine and long-term.

Immigration Solicitors4me  specialize in guiding applicants through the visa process, ensuring they meet all the requirements to avoid delays or refusals. If you want to join your partner in the UK, understanding the application process is crucial.

What is an Unmarried Partner Visa?

The Unmarried Partner Visa allows non-UK nationals to join their British or settled partner in the UK without being legally married or in a civil partnership. It falls under the UK Family Visa category and grants similar rights to those available under a Spouse or Civil Partner Visa.

With this visa, you can:

• Live and work in the UK without restrictions
• Study in the UK
• Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years
• Access NHS healthcare

However, you cannot:

• Claim public benefits
• Work as a professional sportsperson

Who Can Apply for an Unmarried Partner Visa?

To qualify for this visa, you must meet specific Home Office criteria.

1. Genuine and Subsisting Relationship

• You must have been in a serious relationship for at least two yearsand provide evidence of cohabitation.
• Acceptable proof includes joint bank accounts, rental agreements, utility bills, travel records, and communication logs.
• If you have children together, birth certificates and shared responsibility documents strengthen your case.

2. UK-Based Sponsor

Your partner must be:

• A British citizen
• A person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status
• A refugee or someone with humanitarian protectionin the UK

3. Financial Requirement

• Your UK-based partner must earn at least £18,600 per year.
• If you have one child, this increases to £22,400, with an extra £2,400 per additional child.
• Savings or other income sources can also be used to meet the financial threshold.

4. English Language Requirement

• You must pass an approved A1 level English test, unless you are from an English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English.

5. Suitable Accommodation

• You must prove that your home in the UK meets living standards and will not be overcrowded.

Application Process for an Unmarried Partner Visa

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

• Passport and travel history
• Proof of relationship (photos, joint bills, tenancy agreements)
• Financial documents (payslips, tax records, or savings statements)
• English language test certificate
• Evidence of suitable accommodation

Step 2: Submit Your Online Application

• Apply through the UK Home Office website.
• Pay the visa fee (£1,846 if applying from outside the UK, £1,048 if applying within the UK).
• Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)of £1,035 per year.

Step 3: Biometric Appointment

• Schedule a visit to a Visa Application Centre (VAC)to provide fingerprints and photos.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

• Standard processing time: 24 weeks(if applying from outside the UK) and 8 weeks (if applying from within the UK).
• Priority servicesare available for faster processing.

What If Your Application is Refused?

Visa refusals can be stressful, but they are not the end of the road. Common reasons for rejection include:

• Insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship
• Failure to meet financial requirements
• Missing or incorrect documentation

Immigration Solicitors4me  can:

• Review your refusal letterand identify errors
• Prepare a strong appeal or administrative review
• Assist with reapplyingto improve your chances of approval

Extending and Settling in the UK

The Unmarried Partner Visa is initially granted for 2 years and 9 months. You must apply for an extension before it expires, granting another 2 years and 6 months.

After 5 years on this visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing you to live permanently in the UK. After one year with ILR, you may qualify for British citizenship.

Conclusion

The Unmarried Partner Visa is a great option for couples who want to live together in the UK without being legally married. However, the application process is detailed and requires strong evidence to avoid delays or refusals. From proving your relationship to meeting financial and language requirements, every step must be handled carefully.

Immigration Solicitors4me  take the stress out of the visa process by offering expert legal support. Whether you need help preparing documents, submitting an appeal, or extending your visa, our immigration lawyers ensure the best possible outcome.

Need assistance with your Unmarried Partner Visa? Contact Immigration Solicitors4me today for expert guidance!