Migration QueenThe Fiancé Visa UK is one of the most sought-after immigration routes for engaged couples who wish to reunite and marry in the United Kingdom. As international relationships grow in the digital age, the need for a visa pathway that allows fiancés to live together and plan their wedding has never been more critical.
This guide provides a thorough understanding of the UK fiancé visa, its eligibility requirements, application process, costs, processing times, and common challenges.
What is the Fiancé Visa UK?
The Fiancé Visa UK (also known as the UK Marriage Visitor Visa for fiancés or the UK Marriage Settlement Visa) is a type of UK Family Visa that allows non-UK nationals to enter the UK for up to 6 months with the intention of marrying or entering a civil partnership with their British or settled partner.
It is designed specifically for couples who are engaged and plan to get married in the UK within six months of arrival.
After marriage, the visa holder can apply for a Spouse Visa UK, leading eventually to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British citizenship.
Key Features of the Fiancé Visa UK
- Valid for 6 months (non-extendable unless switching to a Spouse Visa).
- Cannot work or access public funds.
- Must marry within 6 months of arrival.
- Allows switching to the UK Spouse Visa after marriage.
Fiancé Visa UK Eligibility Requirements (2025)
To be eligible for a Fiancé Visa UK, both the applicant and their partner must meet strict criteria as per UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI):
1. Relationship Requirements
- You and your partner must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have met in person and be genuinely engaged.
- You must intend to marry within 6 months of arrival.
- Your relationship must be genuine and subsisting.
2. Sponsorship Requirement
- Your partner must be:
- A British citizen, or
- Have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), or
- Hold pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
3. Financial Requirement
- The sponsoring partner must meet the minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year.
- Higher thresholds apply if there are dependent children:
- First child: +£3,800
- Additional children: +£2,400 each
Acceptable sources of income:
- Salaried or non-salaried employment
- Self-employment
- Savings (at least £62,500 to waive income requirement)
- Pensions
- Maternity or paternity pay
4. Accommodation
You must provide evidence that you have suitable accommodation available in the UK without recourse to public funds.
5. English Language Requirement
The applicant must prove they can speak and understand English to at least CEFR level A1. Accepted tests include:
- IELTS Life Skills A1
- Trinity GESE Grade 2
Documents Required for a Fiancé Visa UK Application
A well-prepared visa application must include the following:
- Passport and travel documents
- Proof of relationship (photos, messages, travel history)
- Proof of intention to marry (wedding venue booking, notice of marriage)
- Financial evidence (payslips, bank statements, tax returns)
- Proof of accommodation (tenancy agreement, property inspection report)
- English language certificate
- Sponsor’s passport/ID
- TB test certificate (for applicants from certain countries)
How to Apply for a Fiancé Visa UK (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Ensure all supporting documents meet UKVI requirements. Originals and certified translations may be required.
Step 2: Apply Online
Submit your fiancé visa UK application via the official UK Government website. This is done from outside the UK.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
As of 2025, the Fiancé Visa UK application fee is £1,846. This may vary slightly based on location.
Note: The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) does not apply to fiancé visa applicants.
Step 4: Book a Biometrics Appointment
Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your home country to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Standard processing time is up to 12 weeks. Priority services may be available at an additional cost.
Fiancé Visa UK to Spouse Visa: Next Steps After Marriage
After legally marrying in the UK, you should switch to the Spouse Visa before the 6-month validity expires.
Requirements to Switch:
- Apply from within the UK.
- Submit marriage certificate.
- Meet similar financial and accommodation requirements.
- Pay the Spouse Visa application fee: £1,048 (in-country).
The spouse visa allows you to live and work in the UK for 30 months, renewable once, and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Fiancé Visa UK Processing Time (2025)
| Application Type | Processing Time |
| Standard | 8–12 weeks |
| Priority (where available) | 5–7 working days |
Delays can occur due to incomplete documents, high demand, or background checks. Always apply well in advance.
Fiancé Visa UK Rejection: Common Reasons and Remedies
Common Refusal Reasons:
- Inadequate financial evidence
- Inability to prove genuine relationship
- Incomplete or incorrect documents
- Missing English language certificate
- Lack of intent to marry
What to Do if Refused:
- You can appeal the decision or submit a fresh application.
- Seek help from a UK immigration solicitor for best results.
- Carefully address the reasons for refusal with stronger evidence.
How Much Does the Fiancé Visa UK Cost in 2025?
| Expense Type | Amount |
| Visa Application Fee | £1,846 |
| English Test | ~£150 |
| TB Test (if applicable) | ~£65–£110 |
| Document Translation | Varies |
| Immigration Lawyer (optional) | £800–£2,000 |
Benefits of the UK Fiancé Visa
- Legal pathway to join your partner in the UK.
- Time to settle and plan your wedding.
- Eligible to switch to Spouse Visa for long-term stay.
- Start your journey to British citizenship.
Can You Work on a Fiancé Visa UK?
No. Fiancé visa holders are not allowed to work or engage in business activity. Working in violation of this rule can lead to visa cancellation and future immigration bans.
You can only work after you switch to a UK Spouse Visa.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances of Approval
- Submit Strong Evidence: Letters, photos, call logs, flight tickets, hotel bookings.
- Be Transparent: Always disclose full details and avoid misrepresentation.
- Plan Your Wedding Details: Booking confirmations, marriage venue reservations help.
- Use a Reputable Immigration Lawyer: Especially if your case is complex or involves children or prior refusals.
- Double-Check Financial Evidence: Meet income thresholds or use acceptable savings.
Fiancé Visa UK vs Spouse Visa UK: What’s the Difference?
| Criteria | Fiancé Visa UK | Spouse Visa UK |
| Purpose | To enter UK and get married | To live with spouse |
| Validity | 6 months | 30 months |
| Can Work? | No | Yes |
| Can Extend? | No (must switch) | Yes |
| Path to ILR | After switching | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for a Fiancé Visa UK if I’ve never met my partner in person?
No. You must have physically met at least once before applying.
2. Can I bring children on a Fiancé Visa UK?
Dependent children cannot apply as dependents on a fiancé visa. They may need to apply separately or wait until you switch to a Spouse Visa.
3. What happens if we don’t marry within 6 months?
You must leave the UK or risk breaching immigration rules. An extension is not normally granted unless there are exceptional circumstances.
4. Can I switch from a Tourist Visa to Fiancé Visa in the UK?
No. The Fiancé Visa UK must be applied for from outside the UK.
Conclusion
The Fiancé Visa UK offers an essential route for international couples wishing to begin their married life in the UK. While the process is rigorous, the benefits are substantial—reuniting with your partner, building a future, and eventually settling permanently.
To ensure a successful application, take time to understand the requirements, collect thorough documentation, and seek legal advice if needed. Whether you’re navigating this path alone or with professional help, a well-prepared UK fiancé visa application can bring you one step closer to starting a life with your loved one in the UK.
References
UK Government Official Fiancé Visa Page
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
IELTS for UKVI
Immigration Health Surcharge
Migration Queen