When considering moving to the UK to join your partner, two primary visa options are available: the Fiancé Visa UK and the Spouse Visa UK. These visas allow individuals to either get married or live with their British partner in the UK. Each visa comes with its unique set of requirements and benefits. In this article, we’ll explore both visas, comparing their features and helping you determine which one is best suited for your situation in 2025.
What is the Fiancé Visa UK?
The Fiancé Visa UK is designed for individuals who are engaged to a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK. It allows you to enter the UK to get married within six months of your arrival. After your marriage, you can apply for a Spouse Visa, which enables you to remain in the UK long-term.
Key Features of the Fiancé Visa UK:
- Duration: The visa is granted for six months, during which you must marry or enter a civil partnership.
- Work Restrictions: You are not allowed to work or study on a Fiancé Visa.
- Switching to a Spouse Visa: Once married, you must apply for a Spouse Visa to stay in the UK.
What is the Spouse Visa UK?
The Spouse Visa UK is for individuals who are already married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled person. This visa allows you to live, work, and study in the UK with your spouse. It is valid for an initial period of 2.5 years and can be extended.
Key Features of the Spouse Visa UK:
- Duration: The visa is initially granted for 2.5 years and can be extended for another 2.5 years.
- Work and Study Rights: You can work and study in the UK without restrictions.
- Path to Permanent Residency: After five years on a Spouse Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and later, British citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria for Fiancé Visa UK and Spouse Visa UK
While both visas allow you to join your British partner, their eligibility requirements vary.
Relationship Requirements:
- Fiancé Visa UK: You must be engaged to a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK and must intend to get married within six months of your arrival.
- Spouse Visa UK: You must already be married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled person.
Financial Requirements:
For both visas, your sponsoring partner must meet a financial threshold to prove they can support you:
- The minimum income requirement is £18,600 per year for the sponsoring partner.
- Additional income is required if you have dependent children (£3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child).
English Language Requirement:
Both the Fiancé Visa UK and Spouse Visa UK require you to demonstrate your English language proficiency by:
- Passing an approved English language test at CEFR level A1 or higher.
- Providing proof of a degree taught in English.
- Being from a recognized English-speaking country.
Accommodation Requirement:
You must provide proof of adequate accommodation in the UK where you and your partner will live after you are married or during your stay.
Documents Required for Fiancé Visa UK and Spouse Visa UK
To ensure a smooth application process, you must gather several key documents. Here’s a breakdown of the common documents required for both visas:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Proof of relationship: Engagement or marriage certificates, photos, and communication records.
- Financial documents: Pay slips, bank statements, or savings records to demonstrate the financial requirement.
- Accommodation details: Proof of where you and your partner will live.
- English language certificate: Test results or degree certificate (if applicable).
Application Process for Fiancé Visa UK and Spouse Visa UK
Step 1: Submit Your Online Application
Both visa applications are completed online. The current fees (as of 2025) 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 grants you access to healthcare services in the UK.
Step 2: Provide Biometrics and Submit Documents
After submitting your application, you’ll be required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) at a visa application center. You must also submit the supporting documents listed above either in person or digitally.
Step 3: Wait for a Decision
Visa processing times vary but typically take around 12 weeks for standard applications. If you need a quicker decision, priority processing options are available for an additional fee.
Pros and Cons of Fiancé Visa UK and Spouse Visa UK
Fiancé Visa UK:
Pros:
- Allows you to enter the UK specifically for the purpose of getting married.
- Ideal for couples who wish to marry in the UK and live together afterward.
Cons:
- Limited to six months with no option for extension.
- You are not allowed to work or study while on the visa.
- Requires an additional application (Spouse Visa) after marriage.
Spouse Visa UK:
Pros:
- Grants you the ability to live, work, and study in the UK with your spouse.
- Valid for 2.5 years, with the option for extension and eventual settlement.
- Direct path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years.
Cons:
- You must already be married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled person.
- The financial requirements must be met to secure the visa.
Conclusion
Choosing between a Fiance Visa UK and a Spouse Visa UK depends on your current relationship status and your plans for the future. If you’re engaged and planning to get married in the UK, the fiancé visa is the appropriate choice. However, if you are already married or in a civil partnership, the spouse visa offers a longer stay and immediate work rights.
Both visas require careful planning and documentation to ensure your application is successful. If you’re unsure about which visa to apply for or need help meeting the eligibility criteria, it’s advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or specialist. With the right preparation, you can join your partner in the UK and start building your life together in 2025.
