UK Proposed Civ

UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

The UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa allows non-UK citizens who are engaged to enter into a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK. This visa is designed for those intending to formalize their relationship within six months of arriving in the UK. It’s an important step for couples who are planning a future together in the UK but are not yet in a legally recognized civil partnership.

In this guide, we will cover the eligibility requirements, application process, necessary documents, and fees for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa in 2024.

What is a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa?

The UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa is for non-UK nationals who plan to enter into a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status (such as indefinite leave to remain or refugee status) in the UK. This visa allows the applicant to come to the UK for a period of six months, during which time the civil partnership must take place. After registering the civil partnership, the visa holder can apply to switch to a UK Civil Partnership Visa (also known as a Spouse Visa) to remain in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for a Proposed Civil Partner Visa

To qualify for the UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa, both you and your partner must meet the following criteria:

1. Genuine Relationship

You must demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and that you intend to enter into a legally recognized civil partnership within six months of arriving in the UK. Evidence may include:

• Proof of your engagement or plans to form a civil partnership (e.g., correspondence with the registry office or civil partnership venue).
• Evidence of your ongoing relationship (e.g., photos, communication logs, shared travel plans).

2. Financial Requirement

You and your partner must meet a minimum income threshold to show that you can support yourselves without relying on public funds. The financial requirement is:

• £18,600 per year for a couple without children.
• £22,400 for one dependent child.
• An additional £2,400 for each additional child.

Income can come from employment, self-employment, savings, or pensions, and it must be documented with payslips, bank statements, or other financial proof.

3. English Language Requirement

You must prove that you can speak English at an A1 level by:

• Passing an approved English language test.
• Holding a degree taught in English.
• Being a citizen of an English-speaking country (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia).

4. Accommodation Requirement

You must show that you have suitable accommodation arranged for your stay in the UK. This can be demonstrated through tenancy agreements, mortgage documents, or a letter from a landlord confirming that you will live together after arriving in the UK.

5. No Access to Public Funds

You and your partner must show that you can financially support yourselves without needing access to public funds.

Required Documents for a Proposed Civil Partner Visa

When applying for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa, you’ll need to submit various supporting documents, including:

• Valid passport and any previous travel documents.
• Evidence of your relationship and engagement plans (e.g., civil partnership venue booking, correspondence).
• Financial evidence proving that your partner meets the minimum income requirement (e.g., payslips, bank statements, savings, etc.).
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., tenancy agreements, mortgage documents).
• English language proficiency test results (unless exempt).
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable).

All documents not in English must be translated by a certified translator.

Application Process for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa

1. Online Application

You must apply for the UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. You’ll need to provide your details, your partner’s information, and supporting documents.

2. Visa Fees

The fees for the UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa in 2024 are:

• Application Fee (from outside the UK): £1,538.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year (though since the visa is only for six months, the amount payable may be pro-rated).
• Biometric Fee: £19.20 for providing fingerprints and photographs.

3. Biometric Appointment

Once you’ve completed your online application, you will need to attend a biometric appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre to submit your fingerprints and photograph.

4. Submit Supporting Documents

You will either upload your supporting documents online or bring them to your biometric appointment. Ensure all documents are complete and translated if necessary.

5. Processing Time

Processing times for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa usually take between 12 and 24 weeks, depending on the country you’re applying from. If you need a quicker decision, priority services are available at an extra cost:

• Priority Service: £500 for a decision within 5 working days.
• Super Priority Service: £800 for a decision within 24 hours.

After Receiving the Proposed Civil Partner Visa

Once you receive your Proposed Civil Partner Visa, you can enter the UK and stay for up to six months. During this time, you are expected to register your civil partnership. After registering your civil partnership, you can switch to a Civil Partnership Visa (also known as a Spouse Visa), which will allow you to stay in the UK for an additional 2.5 years.

Key Considerations

1. Timing Your Application Since the Proposed Civil Partner Visa is only valid for six months, you should carefully plan the timing of your civil partnership registration. It’s essential that you register the partnership within the visa’s validity period to be eligible to switch to a Civil Partnership Visa.

2. Financial Evidence Ensure that your partner’s financial documents meet the requirements, as any inconsistencies or missing information can lead to delays or refusals.

3. English Language Test Make sure you take the English language test early enough to receive your results before applying. If you are exempt, have the necessary documents to prove it.

Switching to a Civil Partnership Visa

After registering your civil partnership, you can apply to switch from a Proposed Civil Partner Visa to a full Civil Partnership Visa. The application will require you to meet the same criteria (financial, accommodation, and English language) as you did for the initial visa.

Final Thoughts

The Proposed Civil Partner Visa UK is a crucial step for couples who want to formalize their relationship and build a life together in the UK. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, and ensuring your plans are in place, you can successfully apply for this visa. Once your civil partnership is registered, you’ll be able to continue your journey towards a long-term future in the UK by switching to a Civil Partnership Visa. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s always helpful to seek advice from an immigration professional to avoid potential complications.