British Marriage Visa and Application Process

Introduction:

Getting married is a union of two people in love, and it is a beautiful thing. However, sometimes you have to face some complicated issues when you decide to bring your spouse to the United Kingdom. But, if you are a British national and wish to bring your foreign spouse to the UK, you need to take some critical steps to ensure the process is successful. British Marriage Visa is one of your options, and this guide will explain the process and provide you with some frequently asked questions.

1. What is a British Marriage Visa?

A British Marriage Visa allows a non-UK national to enter the UK to live with their partner, who must be a British Citizen or have UK settled status. This visa has a validity of 6 months, and it is designed for individuals who want to visit the UK to prepare for a wedding or ceremony.

2. Who is eligible for a British Marriage Visa?

To apply for a British Marriage Visa, the spouse or partner living outside the UK must be able to prove that they intend to get married to a British Citizen or UK Settled status spouse or partner shortly. The applicant must also prove that they can support themselves without relying on public funds and provide evidence of their relationship, such as photographs, phone bills, emails, video calls, or other proofs that sufficient funds to maintain themselves without claiming public funds.

3. How to apply for a British Marriage Visa?

To apply for a British Marriage Visa, the applicant must complete the online form and gather all the necessary documents, such as passport, proof of intention to marry, proof of relationship, and financial resources. The fee for applying a Marriage Visa is £95, and the process usually takes up to 12 weeks or longer. A decision may take longer if the British authorities request additional information.

4. How long can I stay in the UK on a Marriage Visa?

A Marriage Visa is valid for six months and allows the applicant to enter the UK. Once the applicant enters the UK, they have six months to get married and switch to a spousal visa, which will allow them to remain and work in the UK for two and a half years.

5. What are the requirements for a spousal visa?

To be eligible for a spousal visa, the applicant must demonstrate that they are married to a British citizen or person with settled status, intend to live with their spouse or partner permanently, have enough money to support themselves without claiming public funds, and meet the English Language requirements.

6. How to apply for a spousal visa?

To apply for a spousal visa, the applicant must complete the online application form and post it to the British Embassy in their country, along with all the required documents and copies of supporting evidence. The process of getting a spousal visa can take up to three months or longer, and the fee for applying for a spousal visa is currently £1,523.

FAQs:

1. Can I apply for a British Marriage Visa if I am already married?

No, you cannot apply for a marriage visa if you are already married. In that case, you would have to apply for a spousal visa.

2. What if I am not married but in a civil partnership?

If you are not married but in a civil partnership, you have to apply for a civil partnership visa.

3. Can I work in the UK on a Marriage Visa?

No, a Marriage Visa does not allow you to work in the UK. You will need to apply for a spousal visa to work in the UK.

4. Can I extend my Marriage Visa?

No, you cannot extend your Marriage Visa. Once the visa expires, you will have to apply for a spousal visa.

5. Do I have to take an English language test for a Marriage Visa?

No, you do not have to take an English language test for a Marriage Visa. However, you must be able to communicate in English, and you may need to take an English language test for a spousal visa.

Conclusion:

Bringing your foreign spouse to the UK can seem like a daunting task, but with the necessary information and following the proper procedures, it can be a straightforward process. A British Marriage Visa and Spousal Visa can help you bring your spouse to the UK, and following the eligibility requirements and necessary documents is essential. We hope that this guide has helped answer some of your questions, and we wish you all the best in bringing your spouse to the UK.