When planning to join your partner in the United Kingdom, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll face is whether to apply for a Fiance Visa UK or a Spouse Visa UK. While both visas allow you to live with your British partner, they cater to different stages of a relationship and come with distinct eligibility requirements. Understanding the differences between these two visas can help you choose the right one for your situation.
1. What is a Fiancé Visa UK?
A Fiance Visa UK allows non-UK residents who are engaged to a British citizen or a person with settled status in the UK to enter the country for the purpose of marriage or entering a civil partnership. The visa is granted for a maximum of six months, during which time you must get married. Once married, you can switch to a Spouse Visa to remain in the UK.
Key Features:
- Duration: Valid for six months, with no option for extension. You must marry during this time.
- Work Rights: You cannot work or study while on a Fiancé Visa.
- Next Steps: After your wedding, you must apply for a Spouse Visa to continue living in the UK.
2. What is a Spouse Visa UK?
A Spouse Visa UK allows individuals who are already married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK to live, work, and study in the UK. The visa is granted for an initial 2.5 years (30 months) and can be extended.
Key Features:
- Duration: Initially granted for 2.5 years, extendable for another 2.5 years.
- Work Rights: You can work, study, and access certain public services like the NHS.
- Path to Settlement: After five years on a Spouse Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.
3. Key Differences Between the Fiancé Visa UK and Spouse Visa UK
While both visas allow you to join your British partner in the UK, there are significant differences between the two.
| Fiancé Visa UK | Spouse Visa UK |
|---|---|
| Allows you to enter the UK to get married | Allows you to live with your spouse in the UK |
| Valid for six months | Valid for 2.5 years |
| No right to work or study | Right to work and study |
| Must switch to a spouse visa after marriage | Can directly apply if already married |
| Requires proof of future marriage plans | Requires proof of an existing marriage |
4. Eligibility Criteria for Both Visas
The eligibility criteria for both visas are similar in many ways, but there are key differences to note.
a. Relationship Requirements
- Fiancé Visa UK: You must be engaged to a British citizen or settled person and plan to marry within six months of arriving in the UK.
- Spouse Visa UK: You must already be married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled person.
b. Financial Requirements
For both visas, the sponsoring partner must meet a financial threshold to prove they can support you without relying on public funds. The minimum income requirement is:
- £18,600 per year for the sponsoring partner.
- Additional amounts for dependent children (£3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child).
c. English Language Requirement
Both visas require you to demonstrate English language proficiency at CEFR level A1 or higher. You can meet this requirement by passing an approved English language test or by providing proof of a degree taught in English.
d. Accommodation Requirement
You must provide evidence that you have suitable accommodation in the UK where you will live with your partner after marriage or entry.
5. Application Process for the Fiancé Visa UK and Spouse Visa UK
The application processes for both visas are relatively similar, involving several steps:
a. Complete the Online Application
You must complete an online application form for either visa. The fees are as follows:
- Fiancé Visa UK: £1,538 when applying from outside the UK.
- Spouse Visa UK: £1,538 (from outside the UK) or £1,048 (from within the UK).
Additionally, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS).
b. Provide Biometric Information and Submit Documents
You will need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) at a visa application center and submit the required documents, including:
- Passport or travel document.
- Proof of relationship (engagement or marriage certificates).
- Financial documents (income proof, savings, etc.).
- Accommodation proof (rental agreements or property documents).
- English language test results or degree certification.
c. Processing Times
It typically takes around 12 weeks to process both visa applications, though priority processing is available for a faster decision.
6. Switching from a Fiancé Visa UK to a Spouse Visa UK
If you enter the UK on a Fiancé Visa, you must switch to a Spouse Visa once you are married. The spouse visa allows you to stay in the UK for 2.5 years, after which you can apply for an extension. Once you have lived in the UK for five years on a spouse visa, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and later British citizenship.
7. Conclusion
Whether you should apply for a Fiancé Visa UK or a Spouse Visa UK depends on your relationship status and your long-term plans. If you are engaged and plan to marry in the UK, the fiancé visa is the best option. However, if you are already married, a spouse visa will allow you to join your partner in the UK and enjoy the benefits of living and working together.
Both visas come with important financial, relationship, and language requirements, so it’s essential to ensure you meet these before applying. With careful planning, you can successfully navigate the application process and begin your new life together in the UK.
For 2025, it's crucial to stay updated with any changes in immigration rules or application fees. Consider seeking professional legal advice if you are unsure which visa to apply for or how to meet the requirements.
