England Partner Visa: A Comprehensive Guide

Moving to a new country for love can be an exciting but daunting process. In England, the Partner Visa allows non-EEA partners of British citizens or settled persons to join their significant other in the UK. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the Partner Visa, the eligibility criteria and the application process.

What is an England Partner Visa?

A Partner Visa enables your partner to come and live in the UK with you. It is known as a ‘family of a settled person visa’, and is for partners who aren’t a British or EEA citizen. If you are a British citizen, you must sponsor your partner’s visa application.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an England Partner Visa, you must meet specific requirements. You must be able to prove that you are in a genuine relationship and intend to live with your partner permanently in the UK. This also includes same-sex partners.

The applicant must also pass an English language test and meet the financial requirement. The financial requirement is to ensure that the couple can afford to live in the UK without relying on public funds. Your British partner must also meet the minimum income threshold of £18,600 per annum. This threshold increases if there are children involved.

Further, the applicant must not have a criminal record and should have some knowledge about life in the UK through the Life in the UK Test.

Application Process

The application process for an England Partner Visa is a lengthy one, and it requires meticulous attention to detail. It must be done online, and it can take up to 3 months to be processed. However, in some cases, the process can take longer.

The application process involves several stages:

Stage One: Submitting an online application

The first step is to submit an online application through the government portal. You’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship, including a marriage certificate or evidence of cohabitation. You’ll also need to pass the English language test and provide evidence of your sponsor’s income and the source of your savings.

Stage Two: Biometric appointment

Once your application is accepted, you’ll be prompted to book a biometric appointment at a UK visa application centre. At the appointment, you will need to provide biometric information, such as your fingerprints.

Stage Three: Documentation Submission

After your biometric appointment, you must then submit supporting documentation. This includes your passport and financial documents that prove you meet the financial requirement.

Stage Four: Decision on your application

The final stage is to wait for a decision on your application. The processing time can vary between 3 to 6 months, so patience is required. If successful, a vignette sticker will be added to your passport, and you will enter the UK as a temporary resident.

FAQs

How long is an England Partner Visa valid for?

An England Partner Visa is initially granted for two and a half years, it can then be extended for another two and a half years. After five years, the applicant can apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).

Can I work in the UK with an England Partner Visa?

Yes, you are allowed to work in the UK with an England Partner Visa. You will need to apply for a National Insurance number.

Can I travel with an England Partner Visa?

Yes, you can travel with an England Partner Visa. The visa is valid for multiple entries and exits, so you can travel in and out of the UK during the validity period.

Can my children come with me to the UK?

Yes, children can also apply to come to the UK as dependants, provided they meet certain requirements.

What happens if my application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you have the right to appeal against the immigration decision. The appeal process can take several months, and you should seek legal advice if you are considering it.

Conclusion

The England Partner Visa is a complex and time-consuming process, but it can bring partners together and enable them to start a new life in the UK. It is essential to seek professional guidance and ensure that both partners meet the eligibility criteria before starting the application process. If successful, the visa can be the first step towards a new and exciting chapter in both your lives.