Applying for a UK fiancé(e) visa can feel complex—but with the right step-by-step approach, it’s entirely manageable. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: from eligibility and documentation to submission tips, processing timelines, and post-entry next steps. Whether you’re planning to join your partner in the UK or preparing to settle long-term, this guide equips you to apply confidently.
This blog is ideal for international applicants with a UK-based partner who wish to marry and settle in the UK. It will help you avoid common pitfalls, understand eligibility criteria, and ensure you’re prepared every step of the way.
What is a UK Fiancé(e) Visa?
Definition and Key Features
The fiancé(e) visa—also often labelled as the Fiancé(e)/Proposed Civil Partner visa—is a long-term route that allows your fiancé(e) to come to the UK to get married or enter a civil partnership and then apply to switch into a spouse visa. The route lasts for 6 months, and during that time, you must marry or form a civil partnership and apply to switch to a partner visa.
This route is part of the UK’s family immigration category, governed by Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules. It’s important to note that the fiancé(e) visa is different from a visitor visa. A visitor visa does not permit marriage or long-term stay, whereas a fiancé(e) visa does.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate:
- A genuine and subsisting relationship with a UK-based fiancé(e)
- Financial capacity (minimum £29000 annual requirement)
- Appropriate accommodation in the UK
- Intent to marry within six months
- English language ability at CEFR A1 level (or equivalent)
Additional factors such as prior immigration history, criminal records, or previous refusals may influence the application outcome. An honest, well-documented application is vital.
For those planning long-term settlement, understanding the transition to Spouse Visa is crucial.
Step 1 – Understanding the Financial and Accommodation Requirements
Maintenance Fund Threshold
You need to show either:
A minimum gross income of £29,000 (before tax), or
Savings of at least £88,500, or
A combination of the two, where savings cover the shortfall.
If the UK sponsor is receiving permitted benefits, the financial threshold can be met differently, but strong documentation is still needed. Benefits must be consistent and from the approved list under Appendix FM-SE.
Financial records must include at least six months of payslips, bank statements, and P60s. For the self-employed, additional evidence such as tax returns and business bank statements will be required.
Proving Adequate Accommodation
You must show private accommodation that isn’t overcrowded and meets UK safety standards. Common proofs include:
Tenancy agreement or mortgage statement
Council tax bill
Utility bills or building inspection certificates
You may be asked to provide an independent housing inspection report. This report confirms the property’s suitability under UK regulations.
Also, consider reading our guidance on UK Visa Extension and Compliance for maintaining your accommodation proof.
Step 2 – Gathering Required Documents
Proof of Relationship
A fiancé(e) visa application must include strong evidence showing a lasting relationship. Key documents often include:
Photographs from various occasions throughout the relationship
Call logs, chat screenshots, social media correspondence
Travel tickets—showing visits to each other, if applicable
Joint hotel bookings, holiday plans, or letters from friends and family
The Home Office seeks genuine, long-term connections, not just recent or online interactions. Present the relationship chronologically and cohesively.
Applicants are advised to create a timeline of their relationship, explaining key milestones—such as meeting, visiting, engagement, and future plans.
Identity and Civil Status Evidence
Essential documents include:
Full valid passports
Birth certificates
Divorce or death certificates if previously married
Proof of name change if applicable
Translations must be professionally certified if documents are not in English. Include translator credentials and contact information.
Step 3 – Completing the Online Application
Choosing the Right Visa Type
When filling in the form on the UKVCAS website, ensure that:
You select “Fiancé(e) / Proposed Civil Partner visa”
You specify correct intentions (to marry within six months)
Selecting the wrong visa type can lead to automatic rejection. Use the drop-down menus carefully, and refer to the gov.uk step-by-step guide for additional clarity.
Tips for Accurate Form Completion
Double-check personal information against official documents
Use a cover letter to clarify financial and relationship points
Avoid spelling inconsistencies in names, addresses, and job titles
Include the sponsor’s National Insurance number, employment history, and address details accurately to prevent mismatches.
Need help preparing this stage? Check our UK Visa Refusal Appeal section in case of earlier denials.
Step 4 – Submitting Biometrics and Supporting Evidence
Biometrics Appointment
After submitting the form, book your UKVCAS appointment:
Attend with all original documents
Bring recent color passport-size photos
Provide fingerprints and digital photograph
This is a mandatory step for all applicants. Missing your appointment may result in a delayed or rejected application.
How to Compile a Well-Organized Bundle
Use:
A double-sided binder
Tabs for each section (relationship, finances, accommodation)
Include an index or contents page for navigation
Presenting a clear, professional application improves caseworker efficiency and reflects seriousness.
Also include a cover letter with a summary of documents, relationship timeline, financial explanation, and intentions post-arrival.
Step 5 – Fees, Processing Times & Priority Options
Visa and Health Surcharge Costs
As of 2025:
Standard fiancé(e) visa fee: £1,938
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1035 per year
Applicants applying from outside the UK may see variations based on country-specific exchange rates or submission centres.
Ensure all payments are made before the biometrics appointment to avoid delays in decision-making.
Standard vs Premium Service
Standard processing times are 12–24 weeks. Premium (priority) services can shorten this to 5–10 working days in select locations. Availability varies by country, and fees are typically £500+ for priority and £1000+ for super priority.
Applicants should plan their wedding date accordingly and allow for unexpected delays.
What Happens After Approval?
Entry to the UK and Next Steps
Upon arrival, your visa is valid for six months. You must marry and then apply to switch to a spouse visa.
Book your marriage at least 28 days in advance with a UK registry office. If you’re marrying in a religious venue, notify the appropriate religious authority.
Switching to a Spouse Visa and ILR Route
After marriage, apply for Spouse Visa. After five years on a spouse visa, you’re eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
The spouse visa has two stages: initial 2.5 years, then extension. Each stage requires updated documentation. The ILR application also includes the Life in the UK Test and English B1 qualification.
Ensure continuity of residence and keep evidence of cohabitation to support future applications.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Top Refusal Reasons
Insufficient relationship evidence
Inaccurate financial documentation
Wrong visa category selected
Incomplete or missing translations
How Expert Help Saves Time
Legal professionals can assist in compiling accurate, regulation-compliant documents.
Explore our Sponsorship Licence services for future transitions.
Professional support also helps if your application has complex elements like previous overstays, criminal records, or long-distance-only communication.
Final Thoughts
Securing a UK fiancé(e) visa requires careful planning—from gathering financial proof to organizing compelling evidence of a genuine relationship. With attention to detail and expert guidance, the process becomes far more manageable.
We encourage applicants to seek professional support during complex parts of the application. Our firm has helped hundreds of couples successfully reunite and build their lives in the UK.
For personalized help, contact our immigration solicitors via our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Bring Dependents?
Fiancé(e) visas do not allow dependents; they must apply separately under the Child Visa UK.
Can You Work on a Fiancé(e) Visa?
No. The fiancé(e) visa prohibits employment. You may begin work after switching to a spouse visa.
What Happens if the Wedding is Delayed?
You must apply for an extension if the marriage doesn’t happen within six months. Strong reasons must be given (e.g., health or visa delays).
Is the Visa Fee Refundable?
No, visa fees and IHS payments are generally non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
