The UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa allows non-UK nationals to enter the UK to form a civil partnership with their British or settled partner. This visa is designed for couples who wish to register a civil partnership rather than marry. Once the civil partnership is registered.
In this guide, we’ll cover the eligibility requirements, documents needed, and the process for applying for a Proposed Civil Partner Visa in 2024.
What is the UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa?
The Proposed Civil Partner Visa is intended for individuals who are engaged to enter a civil partnership with a UK-based partner. Similar to the fiancé visa, it allows entry to the UK for up to 6 months, during which the civil partnership must be registered. After the partnership is formalized, the applicant can apply for a spouse visa to remain in the UK for a longer period.
Eligibility Requirements for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa
To be eligible for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa, you and your partner must meet the following requirements:
Genuine Relationship:
You must show that you intend to enter into a civil partnership within 6 months of arriving in the UK.
You need to demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and ongoing, such as by providing evidence of communication, joint financial responsibilities, or travel together.
UK Partner’s Status:
Your partner must be a British citizen or hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or have refugee status.
Financial Requirement:
Your UK-based partner must meet the minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year. If you have children, the amount increases:£22,400 for one child.
An additional £2,400 for each child beyond the first.
The income can come from employment, self-employment, savings, or other sources.
English Language Requirement:
You must meet the English language requirement by passing a test at CEFR Level A1, unless you are from a majority English-speaking country.
Accommodation Requirement:
You must prove that you will have adequate accommodation arranged for your stay in the UK without relying on public funds.
Documents Required for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa
Here is a checklist of the documents you will need to submit when applying for a Proposed Civil Partner Visa:
Valid Passports:
Both you and your partner must provide valid passports or travel documents.
Proof of Relationship:
Evidence of your relationship, such as communication records (emails, messages), photographs together, travel itineraries, or joint financial statements.
Proof of Financial Support:
Your partner’s payslips for the last 6 months.
Corresponding bank statements showing the income deposits.
Tax returns and business accounts if your partner is self-employed.
If relying on savings, evidence that the savings have been held for at least 6 months.
Proof of Accommodation:
Documents showing where you will live in the UK, such as a tenancy agreement or a mortgage statement.
English Language Test:
A certificate from an approved test provider proving that you meet the required English proficiency level.
TB Test:
If applicable, you may need to provide a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate if you are applying from a country where TB testing is required.
Proof of Civil Partnership Plans:
Confirmation of your civil partnership arrangements, such as a booking at a registry office to enter into the partnership within the 6-month visa period.
UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa Fees
The visa application comes with the following costs:
Visa Application Fee: £1,538
Optional Priority Processing: £573 if you want to receive a faster decision (within 5 working days).
English Language Test: Around £150 (depending on the test provider).
Tuberculosis (TB) Test: £65 – £110 (if required).
Application Process
The application for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa is submitted online. The process involves several key steps:
Submit the Online Application:
Complete the application form on the UK government website and pay the visa application fee.
Upload Documents:
You will need to upload your supporting documents, such as financial proof, relationship evidence, and accommodation details.
Attend a Biometric Appointment:
After submitting the application, you will be required to attend a biometric appointment at a visa application center to provide your fingerprints and have your photograph taken.
Processing Time:
Standard processing time for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa is around 8 to 12 weeks. You can opt for the priority service for faster processing.
After Receiving the Visa
Once granted, your Proposed Civil Partner Visa will allow you to stay in the UK for 6 months. During this time, you must enter into your civil partnership. After the civil partnership is registered, you can apply for a spouse visa, which will allow you to stay in the UK for an additional 2.5 years.
Conclusion
The uk proposed civil partnership visa is a suitable route for couples intending to formalize their relationship through a civil partnership. By ensuring that you meet all the eligibility criteria and submit a complete set of documents, you can maximize your chances of a successful application. If you need additional assistance, consider seeking professional immigration advice to help navigate the process.