UK Unmarried Partner Visa explained
The UK Unmarried Partner Visa allows partners who have cohabited for at least 2 years in a relationship similar to marriage to live together in the UK, with the right to work and study, leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years.
Who can apply?
- You must have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years.
- Your partner must be a British citizen or settled in the UK.
- You need to meet financial, language, and housing requirements.
- You must prove your relationship is genuine and subsisting.
- You must prove basic English skills (A1 for first visa, A2 for extension, B1 for permanent residence).
Financial requirements
You need a combined income of £29,000 a year. This can come from:
- Paid work (at least 6 months with current employer)
- Self-employment earnings
- Savings of £88,500 held for 6 months
- A mix of income and savings
- Other income like rent, pensions, or investments
Required documents
Make sure you have these documents ready:
- Valid passport(s) and previous passports
- Proof of cohabitation for 2+ years (joint tenancy agreements, utility bills, bank statements)
- Evidence of genuine relationship (photos, messages, travel records)
- Financial documents (payslips, bank statements, P60s)
- English language test certificate
- Accommodation evidence (tenancy agreement or mortgage statement)
- TB test certificate (if applicable)
- Evidence of any previous relationships ending (if relevant)
How to apply for UK Unmarried Partner Visa in 5 steps
Step-by-step UK Unmarried Partner visa application process:
- Fill out the online application form.
- Pay the visa fee and health surcharge.
- Book and attend your appointment to give biometrics.
- Submit all required documents including proof of cohabitation.
- Wait up to 12 weeks for a decision.
After you arrive: Path to settlement
The journey to permanent residence:
- **Initial visa: **2.5 years (30 months)
- **Extension: **Another 2.5 years
- **ILR eligibility: **After 5 years continuous residence
- **British citizenship****: **After 1 year with ILR