Fiancé Visa for the United Kingdom. Image: AdobeStock
Fiancé Visa for the United Kingdom
February is the month of love, and Breytenbachs is celebrating this by looking at all the different ways you can join your partner in the UK. This week we look at some of the most Frequently Asked Questions on the Fiancé Visa for the UK.
Fiancé Visa for the United Kingdom. Image: AdobeStock
Who can apply for the UK Fiancé Visa?
If you are in a relationship with a British Passport holder or a person settled in the UK and intend to get married in the UK, you can qualify to apply for a UK Fiancé Visa. Irish nationals and EU nationals holding pre-settled or settled status are also considered settled persons in the UK.
Do I have to fulfil any financial requirements when applying for the UK Fiancé Visa?
Yes, there are very strict financial requirements that you need to meet. The requirements are identical to the UK’s Spousal or Unmarried Partner Visa.
What is the difference between the UK Marriage Visitor’s Visa and the Fiancé Visa?
If you intend to marry your British or settled partner in the UK, you can apply for a Marriage Visitor’s Visa. The application is similar to a standard visitor’s visa; however, you will have to submit evidence confirming that the wedding will take place in the UK and proof of social- and economic ties to South Africa, amongst other requirements.
There are no strict financial requirements, but you will have to return to South Africa after the wedding ceremony. If you want to join your partner in the UK, you will have to apply for a Spousal visa from South Africa. You must keep in mind that you will then have to fulfil the financial requirements at this stage.
If, on the other hand, you apply for the Fiancé visa, you will not have to return to South Africa to apply for your Spousal visa after the wedding ceremony takes place.
How long can I stay in the UK on the Fiancé Visa?
The UKVI will issue the visa for six months. Once the wedding ceremony takes place, you will have to apply for your UK Spousal Visa from within the UK.
The Spouse Visa will be valid for 2,5 years, after which you will have to apply for an extension of another 2,5 years, provided you can still prove that you are in a genuine and subsisting relationship with the British Passport holder.
Will I be allowed to work in the UK on the Fiancé Visa?
Unfortunately, one cannot work in the UK on this type of visa. As soon as you are issued with your UK Spousal Visa, you will be allowed to work without restrictions.
How Breytenbachs can help you
Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants will be able to assess your circumstances and advise you on the best way to join your partner in the UK.
If you want to join your partner in the UK for the purpose of getting married or if you wish to apply for a Spousal or Unmarried Partner visa or would like to discuss any UK immigration issues, please email us at info@bic-immigration.com or visit our website at www.bic-immigration.com
You can also phone your nearest Breytenbachs on the following numbers: Durban – 031 880 2777, Cape Town – 021 879 0969 or Pretoria – 012 460 9959, or our London office at +44 207 442 2160.
Please note that the information in this article does not constitute professional advice. It is provided for general information purposes without any warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied.
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