Marriage Visa UK: Family Visa Guide & Tips

“Marriage visa” is a term commonly used to refer to the UK immigration route that allows non-UK spouses of British citizens or settled persons to join or stay with their partner in the UK.

Technically, however, there is no official category called a “marriage visa” in the UK. Instead, it is the broader Family visa category which permits married couples to live together in the UK, provided they meet the necessary eligibility requirements.

In this guide, we explain how to apply to come to the UK on the basis of marriage, with practical guidance on how to make a successful marriage visa application.

 

Section A: Understanding the UK Marriage Visa

 

While the term “marriage visa” is widely used, it is not an official visa category in the UK. It is in fact part of the UK’s Family visa, which covers several types of relationships and dependent categories.

 

1. What is a Marriage Visa?

 

When people refer to a marriage visa in the UK – or a spouse visa – they are talking about the Family visa, as it allows the non-UK spouse of a British citizen or a person settled in the UK to enter or remain in the country with their partner, provided they meet specific visa criteria. The Family visa covers several types of relationships and dependent categories, including married couples.

 

2. Is the Marriage Visa Right For You?

 

When planning to join a partner in the UK, you needs to choose the correct visa type that aligns with your relationship status and future plans. The Marriage Visa, Fiancé Visa, and Marriage Visit Visa serve different purposes, each with its own eligibility criteria, restrictions, and conditions.

 

a. Marriage Visa (Spouse Visa)

A marriage visa (also known as a spouse visa) is designed for non-UK spouses of British citizens or settled persons who wish to live in the UK permanently. This visa allows the holder to live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions. To qualify, applicants must be legally married to their UK-based partner, demonstrate a genuine relationship, meet financial and English language requirements, and commit to cohabiting in the UK. The marriage visa is initially granted for 2.5 years, with the option to extend for another 2.5 years. After five years, visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

The marriage visa differs from other types of UK visas in a number of ways. While work visas, student visas and visitor visas are designed for employment, study or short-term stays, the marriage visa is aimed at facilitating family reunification for partners of UK residents.

Eligibility for a marriage visa includes demonstrating a genuine and subsisting relationship, meeting income thresholds and fulfilling the English language requirement. These are different from the criteria for work visas, which focus on employment sponsorship, or student visas, which require acceptance from an educational institution.

Fundamentally, permission to live in the UK is based on the marriage visa holder having a qualifying relationship. If this relationship ends, or is not genuine, the visa conditions may no longer be satisfied, meaning the visa holder will have to secure alternative status or leave the country.

 

b. Fiancé Visa
The fiancé visa is for non-UK nationals who intend to come to the UK to marry their British or settled partner. It allows entry to the UK for six months, during which the couple must get married. The visa does not grant the right to work, and holders are expected to apply for a marriage visa (spouse visa) after the wedding if they wish to stay in the UK. Eligibility requirements include proving a genuine relationship, meeting financial thresholds, and having accommodation arrangements in place. Once married, the individual must switch to a marriage visa to continue living in the UK.

 

c. Marriage Visit Visa
The marriage visit visa is for couples who wish to come to the UK to get married but do not plan to settle in the UK afterward. This visa allows the holder to stay for up to six months solely for the purpose of getting married or entering into a civil partnership. It does not permit the holder to work, study, or switch to a different visa category while in the UK. Applicants must demonstrate that they intend to leave the UK after the wedding and have sufficient funds for their stay.

 

Table: Key Differences Between Visa Types

Feature	Marriage Visa (Spouse)	Fiancé Visa	Marriage Visit Visa
Purpose	Live permanently with spouse	Marry a partner and settle	Marry in the UK, no settlement
Validity	2.5 years (extendable)	6 months	6 months
Right to Work	Yes	No	No
Path to Settlement (ILR)	Yes, after 5 years	Requires switching to spouse visa	No
Switching to Other Visas	Can switch to ILR	Must switch to spouse visa	Cannot switch
Eligibility Requirements	Marriage certificate, genuine relationship, financial and language requirements	Intend to marry within 6 months, genuine relationship, financial proof	Proof of intent to leave UK, sufficient funds
Extension Allowed	Yes	No (must switch to spouse visa)	No

 

Section B: Eligibility Criteria for a UK Marriage Visa

 

To apply for a UK marriage visa, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria focus on the legitimacy of the relationship, financial stability and the applicant’s ability to integrate into the country.

 

Table: Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Criteria	Requirement
Relationship Proof	Legally married or in a civil partnership
Financial Requirement	£29,000 annual income or £88,500 savings (or a combination of both)
English Language Proficiency	A1 level (CEFR) or higher
Valid Passport	Applicant and sponsor must both have valid passports
Accommodation Proof	Evidence of suitable accommodation in the UK

 

1. Relationship Requirements

 

One of the fundamental eligibility criteria for a UK marriage visa is demonstrating that the relationship between the applicant and their UK-based partner is genuine and subsisting. To meet this requirement, applicants must:

 

a. Provide evidence of a legal marriage or civil partnership: The applicant must be legally married to or in a recognised civil partnership with a British citizen or a person who has settled status in the UK.

 

b. Show ongoing communication and interaction: Proof of regular contact, such as messages, calls, and correspondence, can be provided as evidence.

 

c. Present cohabitation or visits: Documents showing that the couple has lived together or visited each other, such as joint tenancy agreements, travel itineraries, or hotel receipts, help establish the authenticity of the relationship.

 

d. Affirm commitment: Personal statements, photographs of shared life events, and testimonies from friends or family can further support the case.

 

In its efforts to prevent fraudulent or sham marriages, the Home Office places a strong emphasis on evaluating the evidence provided by couples under family routes. Failure to present sufficient, credible evidence can, therefore, lead to a visa denial.

 

2. Financial and Income Thresholds

 

Applicants for a UK marriage visa must meet certain financial requirements to demonstrate that they can be supported without recourse to public funds. The primary financial criteria include:

The UK-based partner must have a gross annual income of at least £29,000.

The income requirement can be met through various sources, such as salary, savings, self-employment income, or pensions. A combination of these sources can be used as long as they meet the stipulated amount.

If the income threshold is not met through salary alone, savings of at least £88,500 can be used as an alternative to meet the requirement.

Income and savings can also be combined to meet the threshold.

Again, applicants must submit comprehensive financial evidence, including pay slips, bank statements, and employment contracts, to prove that the sponsor meets the financial threshold.

 

3. English Language Requirements

 

To qualify for a UK marriage visa, the applicant must demonstrate a basic understanding of English. This requirement is intended to help applicants integrate more effectively into British society.

Applicants who are nationals of majority English-speaking countries (e.g., the USA, Canada, Australia) or those who hold a degree taught in English are typically exempt from this requirement.

If the applicant is not exempt from this requirement, they will need to pass a speaking and listening test at the A1 level or higher of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

When applying for visa renewal or Indefinite Leave to Remain, applicants will need to pass higher-level English tests (e.g., A2 level for renewals after 2.5 years).

 

Section C: Application Process for a UK Marriage Visa

 

The application process for a UK marriage visa is typically straightforward, but it requires a fair amount of preparation, and processing can take a number of weeks.

 

1. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Marriage Visa

 

Table: Application Process Steps

Step	Action	Description
1	Determine Eligibility	Ensure both the applicant and UK-based partner meet the visa eligibility criteria, including relationship proof, financial requirements, and English language proficiency.
2	Complete the Online Application	Visit the official UK government visa website, create an account, and fill in the family visa (spouse) application form accurately.
3	Pay the Application Fee & IHS	Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) based on the length of stay.
4	Book a Biometric Appointment	Schedule an appointment at a visa application center to submit your fingerprints and photograph (biometrics).
5	Gather Supporting Documents	Collect all required documents, such as passports, marriage certificate, proof of income, accommodation details, and English language test results.
6	Upload or Submit Documents	Upload your supporting documents online or bring them to your biometric appointment, depending on the country you are applying from.
7	Attend the Biometric Appointment	Attend the biometric appointment on the scheduled date and provide any additional documentation if required.
8	Wait for Visa Decision	Standard processing time is up to 12 weeks if applying from outside the UK or 8 weeks if applying from within the UK. Priority processing is available for an additional fee.

 

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before starting the application, ensure that both the applicant and their UK-based partner meet the necessary eligibility criteria, including relationship proof, financial requirements, and English language proficiency.

 

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Visit the UK government’s visa and immigration website and create an account. Select the appropriate family visa type (spouse or partner).

Fill in the online application form, providing accurate personal details, relationship history, financial information, and plans for life in the UK.

Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).

 

Step 3: Book a Biometric Appointment

Schedule an appointment at a visa application centre to submit biometric data (fingerprints and photograph). This step is required to process the visa application.

 

Step 4: Prepare and Upload Supporting Documents

Gather and upload all required documents before the appointment or bring them to the visa centre (if applicable).

 

Step 5: Attend the Biometric Appointment

Attend the appointment at the designated centre and submit all necessary documents.

Some centres may offer additional services like document scanning and priority processing for an extra fee.

 

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

Processing times can vary but typically range from 12 weeks for applications made outside the UK and up to 8 weeks for in-country applications. Expedited processing options may be available for an additional cost.

 

Step 7: Receive a Decision

If the application is approved, the applicant will receive digital proof in the form of an eVisa, which they access through their UKVI account.

 

2. Supporting Documents

 

To support your application, the following documents are typically required:

 

a. Valid Passport: Both the applicant’s and the UK partner’s passports.

b. Proof of Relationship: Marriage or civil partnership certificate; evidence of ongoing communication (e.g., emails, chat logs); photos of shared life events and visits.

c. Financial Evidence: Payslips from the last 6 months; bank statements showing income deposits; employment contract or a letter from the employer; savings statements, if applicable.

d. Proof of Accommodation: Document showing where the couple plans to live, such as a rental agreement or mortgage statement.

e. English Language Test Certificate: Proof of passing an approved English test at the required level.

f. Additional Documents: Tuberculosis (TB) test results, if applicable (for certain countries); divorce or death certificates, if previously married.

 

3. Marriage Visa Fees

 

Applying for a UK unmarried partner visa involves several costs, which can vary based on where the application is submitted (inside or outside the UK) and whether dependents are included. Below is a detailed breakdown of the current fees and additional charges.

The cost for applying from outside the UK is £1,846, while the cost for applying from within the UK is £1,258.

In addition to the visa application fees, you may need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service. The surcharge varies based on the length of stay and whether the applicant is an adult or a child.

 

Table: Application Fees Overview

Application Type	Fee (as of 2024)
Applying from Outside the UK	£1,846
Applying from Within the UK	£1,258
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	£1,035 per year of leave
Priority Processing Fee	£500
Super Priority Processing Fee	£1,000

 

Given that a marriage visa is initially granted for 2.5 years (30 months), the total IHS fee is calculated as follows: £1,035×2.5 = £2,587.50.

 

4. Processing Times

 

Several factors can lead to delays in processing times. Missing information or errors can result in additional checks and requests for further documentation, while during peak times, such as holidays or significant events, processing times may be extended due to increased demand.

Also, if the Home Office requires more information or needs to verify certain aspects of the application, this can prolong the decision-making process.

To minimise the risk of delays, applicants should ensure that all information is accurate, all required documents are provided, and any additional information requested by the Home Office is submitted promptly.

 

5. Application Tips

 

To give your application the best chance of being approved, follow these practical tips:

 

a. Organise Documents Clearly: Present documents in an organised manner. Include translations for any non-English documents.

b. Check for Consistency: Ensure that all details, such as names and dates, match across all documents.

c. Double-Check Financial Evidence: Ensure the income meets or exceeds the minimum threshold. Discrepancies in financial proof can delay the process or lead to rejection.

d. Submit a Strong Relationship Proof: Provide comprehensive evidence of a genuine and ongoing relationship. The more thorough and detailed the evidence, the better.

e. Keep Copies: Make copies of all submitted documents for personal records.

f. Seek Professional Advice: Professional support can help ensure you are eligible for the route and review the application and documents to prevent common mistakes.

 

Section D: Common Challenges with the UK Marriage Visa

 

Understanding the common reasons for a refusal and knowing how to address these pitfalls can help improve your chances of approval.

Refusals can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which stem from avoidable issues. Here are some common pitfalls that lead to rejected applications:

 

1. Insufficient Proof of a Genuine Relationship

 

One of the most common reasons for visa denial is the failure to provide sufficient evidence that the relationship is genuine and subsisting. Applicants may submit incomplete or inconsistent documentation, leading to doubts about the legitimacy of the relationship.

To avoid this, ensure that all relationship evidence is thorough, consistent, and spans the course of the relationship. Include photos, messages, travel records and affidavits from friends and family who know you both.

 

2. Failure to Meet or Prove Financial Requirements

 

The thresholds for partner visas are subject to change, so it’s important to check the latest requirements at the time you’re making the application.

Also, check that the source of the funds being relied on complies with the regulations.

Double-check that the UK-based partner’s income meets or exceeds the required amount and that all financial documents (e.g., bank statements pay slips) are up to date and match the figures stated in the application.

 

3. Insufficient English Language Proof

 

Applicants who do not submit valid proof of meeting the English language requirement or take tests from unapproved providers may face refusals.

Ensure that the English test certificate is from an approved provider and meets the specified CEFR level required by the Home Office.

 

4. Incorrect or Missing Documents

 

Submitting an incomplete set of documents or not providing translations for non-English documents can lead to rejections.

Create a checklist of all required documents, ensuring that every document requested by the Home Office is included. If any documents are not in English, provide certified translations.

 

5. Inaccurate or Inconsistent Information

 

Any inconsistencies between the details in the application and the supporting documents can lead to refusal.

Double-check all forms and evidence for accuracy and consistency to avoid any discrepancies.

 

Section E: Marriage Visa Refusal?

 

If a marriage visa application is rejected, applicants may have options, such as appealing the decision or submitting a new application.

When an application is rejected, the applicant receives a refusal letter explaining the reasons for denial. This letter outlines whether the applicant has the right to appeal the decision.

If eligible, an appeal can be lodged through the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). This process involves presenting additional evidence or clarifying discrepancies identified in the refusal letter. It’s often beneficial to consult with an immigration lawyer who can assist with guiding you through this legal process, preparing a strong appeal case and representing you at hearings.

If the application is rejected for reasons that cannot be appealed, or if the applicant prefers to reapply, it is essential to address all the issues cited in the refusal letter. Ensure that any new application has been updated and that comprehensive documentation corrects the shortcomings of the initial submission.

While there is no cooling-off period or strict waiting period to reapply, it is important to take the necessary time to gather stronger evidence and prepare a more robust application before resubmitting.

 

Section F: Rights and Responsibilities of UK Marriage Visa Holders

 

Obtaining a UK marriage visa comes with significant benefits that extend beyond simply allowing spouses to live together in the UK. This visa provides successful applicants with a range of rights and privileges, enhancing their ability to integrate into society.

 

1. Rights of Marriage Visa Holders

 

Once a UK marriage visa is approved, the visa holder is entitled to several rights that make their stay in the UK more secure:

 

a. Right to Live in the UK

Successful applicants can live with their UK-based spouse or partner, fostering family life and stability.

 

b. Work and Study

Marriage visa holders have the right to work in the UK without restrictions on the type of job or employer, as well as the ability to pursue educational opportunities.

 

c. Access to Public Services

While not all public benefits are accessible to visa holders, marriage visa recipients have access to certain public services. For instance, they can use the NHS (National Health Service) due to the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) paid during the visa application.

 

d. Extension

The initial visa is typically granted for 30 months (2.5 years) and can be renewed for an additional 30 months, allowing visa holders to remain in the UK while working toward settlement.

 

e. Pathway to Settlement

A significant benefit of the UK marriage visa is its role as a pathway to permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. The marriage visa is valid for 2.5 years (30 months), during which the holder must reside in the UK and maintain the relationship with their spouse or partner.

After the initial period, the visa can be renewed for another 2.5 years, provided that the couple continues to meet the eligibility requirements, including financial thresholds and English language proficiency.

After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on a marriage visa, the visa holder becomes eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR grants permanent residency status, which comes with several advantages. Holders of ILR can live and work in the UK without any time limitations. ILR holders may be eligible for certain public benefits and services that are not available to temporary visa holders.

ILR also allows for greater travel flexibility, as holders can leave and re-enter the UK without being subject to the same restrictions as visa holders.

After holding ILR for at least 12 months, individuals can apply for British citizenship, provided they meet the residency requirements, have not spent too much time outside the UK, and pass the Life in the UK Test and additional English language requirements if necessary.

 

2. Visa Holder Responsibilities

 

Holders of a UK marriage visa must also adhere to specific conditions and responsibilities set by the Home Office. Failing to meet the requirements could result in visa cancellation or refusal of extensions in the future.

 

a. Living Together

Marriage visa holders must live with their UK-based spouse or partner in a genuine, ongoing relationship. The Home Office may request evidence, such as joint tenancy agreements, utility bills, or photographs, to confirm that the couple is cohabiting.

If the relationship breaks down, the visa holder is legally required to inform the Home Office, as this may affect their visa status.

 

b. No Public Funds

Visa holders must not claim public funds or certain state benefits, as this could breach their visa conditions.

 

c. Travel Restrictions

Marriage visa holders are generally free to travel in and out of the UK. However, they should ensure that they do not spend extended periods outside the UK, particularly if they plan to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years, as continuous residence is a key requirement. Extended absences could potentially break the continuity of residence and impact eligibility for ILR.

d. Renewing the Visa

The initial marriage visa is granted for 2.5 years (30 months). If the visa holder wishes to continue living in the UK after this period, they must apply for an extension before their current visa expires.

During the renewal process, the visa holder must again demonstrate that they meet all the eligibility criteria, including relationship proof, financial requirements, and English language proficiency.

 

e. Updating Personal Information

Marriage visa holders are responsible for keeping the Home Office informed of any changes to their personal circumstances, such as changes in address, marital status, or employment. Failure to update these details may lead to penalties or visa issues.

 

f. Compliance with UK Laws

Visa holders must abide by all UK laws. Serious criminal offences can lead to the cancellation of the visa and removal from the UK.

Marriage visa holders are also expected to respect the terms of their visa and not engage in activities that are not permitted, such as claiming public benefits that they are not entitled to.

 

3. Consequences of Non-Compliance

 

Failing to adhere to the conditions and responsibilities of a marriage visa can have serious consequences, including:

 

a. Visa Cancellation: The Home Office may cancel the visa if it finds evidence of non-compliance, such as failing to live with the UK spouse or claiming public funds.

b. Refusal of Extension or ILR: Non-compliance can affect future applications, including visa renewals or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

c. Deportation: In severe cases, especially if a visa holder has committed a crime, the Home Office has the authority to deport the individual from the UK.

 

Section G: Home Office Investigation Powers

 

One of the Home Office’s responsibilities is identifying and investigating suspected sham marriages or broken relationships that are used to circumvent immigration rules. The Home Office has several powers and procedures in place to detect, investigate, and act upon cases where marriages may not be genuine or where relationships have broken down.

Marriage visa applicants have to overcome a high degree of Home Office scrutiny and its vigilance in identifying cases where couples may use marriage as a way to secure a visa without fulfilling the usual visa requirements.

The Home Office has extensive powers to investigate suspected sham marriages or fraudulent visa applications. These powers include:

 

1. Marriage Investigation Scheme

 

Under the Marriage and Civil Partnership Referral and Investigation Scheme, registrars are required to refer marriage notices to the Home Office if they suspect a sham marriage. This includes marriages involving a non-UK national and a British or settled partner where certain risk factors are identified, such as language barriers, lack of cohabitation, or large age differences.

 

a. Extended Notice Period

If a marriage is flagged as suspicious, the Home Office can extend the usual 28-day notice period to up to 70 days. During this period, investigators may conduct interviews, request additional documentation, or carry out background checks to verify the legitimacy of the relationship.

 

b. Right to Conduct Interviews

The Home Office has the authority to conduct interviews with both parties to assess the authenticity of the relationship. These interviews are designed to identify discrepancies in the couple’s knowledge of each other’s personal lives, histories, or plans for the future. Any inconsistencies could indicate a sham marriage.

 

c. Site Visits and Surveillance

In some cases, the Home Office may conduct site visits to the couple’s residence or use surveillance to confirm that the relationship is genuine and that the couple is cohabiting as claimed.

 

d. Revocation of Visa and Deportation

If a marriage is deemed to be a sham, the Home Office has the power to revoke the visa of the non-UK national and initiate deportation proceedings. The sponsoring partner may also face legal consequences if found complicit in the arrangement.

 

2. Addressing Broken Relationships

 

The Home Office is also vigilant in cases where relationships break down after a visa has been granted. Marriage visas are granted on the condition that the couple intends to live together in a genuine, ongoing relationship. If the relationship ends, the visa holder’s status may be affected:

 

a. Reporting Changes in Circumstances

Visa holders and their UK sponsors are legally required to inform the Home Office if the relationship ends. Failure to do so can result in penalties, including the cancellation of the visa and removal from the UK.

 

b. Investigation of Relationship Breakdowns

If the Home Office becomes aware of a broken relationship, it may conduct an investigation to determine whether the visa holder is still eligible to remain in the UK. This can involve requesting proof that the couple is still living together or conducting interviews to assess the current state of the relationship.

 

c. Exceptions for Victims of Domestic Abuse

The Home Office recognises that some relationships may break down due to domestic abuse. In such cases, the visa holder may still be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) independently, provided they can demonstrate that the breakdown was due to abuse and that they meet other eligibility criteria.

 

Section H: Summary

 

A UK marriage visa, officially known as a spouse visa, allows the non-UK spouse of a British citizen or a person with settled status to live in the UK. It falls under the family visa category and is designed to support couples who wish to reside together in the UK on a long-term basis. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that their marriage is genuine and ongoing, meet a minimum financial threshold, and satisfy an English language requirement.

The visa initially grants permission to stay for 2.5 years (30 months) and can be extended for another 2.5 years. After completing five years of continuous residence, visa holders may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which provides permanent residency. The application process involves filling out an online form, submitting biometric data, and providing comprehensive documentation to prove eligibility, such as marriage certificates, income evidence, and proof of accommodation.

Applicants also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which covers access to the National Health Service during their stay. Processing times typically range from 8 to 12 weeks, depending on whether the application is made from inside or outside the UK. For those seeking faster results, priority processing options are available for an additional fee.

 

Section I: Need Assistance?

 

For specialist advice and guidance on applying for Marriage Visa for the UK, contact our immigration advisers.

 

Section J: FAQs

 

What is a UK marriage visa?
A UK marriage visa, often called a spouse visa, allows the non-UK spouse of a British citizen or someone with settled status to live in the UK. It falls under the broader category of family visas.

 

Can I work in the UK on a marriage visa?
Yes, once your marriage visa is approved, you are free to work or study in the UK without any restrictions on the type of job or employer.

 

How long is the marriage visa valid for?
The initial visa is valid for 2.5 years (30 months). After this period, it can be renewed for an additional 2.5 years. After completing five years in total, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

 

What is the minimum income requirement for a UK marriage visa?
The UK-based partner must have a minimum annual income of £29,000 or savings of at least £88,500, or a combination of both.

 

Do I need to take an English language test?
Yes, applicants must prove their English proficiency by passing an approved test at A1 level or higher, unless they are from a majority English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English.

 

Can my application be processed faster?
If you apply from within the UK, you can opt for priority or super priority processing for an additional fee. However, not all applicants are eligible for this service.

 

What happens if my application is refused?
If your application is refused, you will receive a refusal letter explaining why. Depending on the reason, you may have the option to appeal the decision or submit a new application with improved evidence.

 

Section K: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
UK Marriage Visa	Informal term used to refer to the spouse visa, which allows a non-UK spouse to live in the UK.
Spouse Visa	Official visa that permits the spouse of a British citizen or settled person to live in the UK.
Family Visa	A visa category that includes spouse, partner, child, and dependent relative visas.
Sponsor	The UK-based partner (British citizen or settled person) who supports the visa application.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	Permanent residency status allowing an individual to live in the UK without time restrictions.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A fee paid to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during the visa holder’s stay.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)	An official document that confirms the holder’s visa status, allowing them to stay and work in the UK.
Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)	A standard system for assessing language proficiency levels.
Pathway to Settlement	The process through which a visa holder can eventually obtain Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Refusal Letter	A document issued if a visa application is denied, explaining the reasons for the decision.
Priority Processing	An optional service for faster visa processing available for an additional fee.
Super Priority Service	An expedited service providing a visa decision by the next working day for an extra cost.
Proof of Genuine Relationship	Evidence demonstrating that the applicant’s relationship with their UK partner is genuine and ongoing.
Accommodation Proof	Documentation showing that there is suitable housing available in the UK for the applicant.
English Language Test Certificate	Proof that the applicant has met the required level of English proficiency.
Appeal	The process of contesting a visa refusal decision by presenting additional evidence.
Renewal	Extending a visa for another term, typically for another 30 months under the marriage visa route.
Dependants	Family members who are included in the visa application, such as children.
Biometrics	Fingerprints and photographs collected as part of the visa application process.

 

Section L: Additional Resources

 

UK Government Official Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/marriage-visa
Comprehensive information on the Marriage Visitor visa, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and required documentation.

 

Family Visas: Partner or Spouse
https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/partner-spouse
Detailed guidance on applying for a family visa to join your partner or spouse in the UK, covering eligibility, financial requirements, and the application process.

 

Visit: Caseworker Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/visit-guidance
Insights into how UK Visas and Immigration staff assess visitor visa applications, including those for marriage purposes.

 

Marriage and Civil Partnership Referral and Investigation Scheme
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1167573/Marriage_investigations.pdf
Statutory guidance for Home Office staff on handling marriage and civil partnership referrals and investigations.