Civil Partner Visa (5-year route)
UK Civil Partner Visa (5-Year Route)
If you are in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled UK resident, you may be eligible for a Civil Partner visa. This visa allows you to live in the UK with your partner and enjoy the same legal rights as married couples, offering a 5-year route for individuals partnered with British citizens or permanent UK residents. If you entered the UK on a Proposed Civil Partner Visa, you do not need to leave to formalise your partnership. Simply apply to switch to a Civil Partner Visa from within the UK.
Contact our experienced immigration solicitors for expert help with your UK Civil Partner Visa, and get the support you need to navigate the application process successfully.
Civil Partner Visa
UK Civil Partnership 5-Year Route
Explore Your Path to Settlement in the UK with the Civil Partnership Visa
At Axis Solicitors, we guide individuals through the process of securing a Civil Partnership Visa in the UK. This visa caters to civil partners of British or Irish citizens, those settled in the UK, holders of pre-settled status, Turkish Businessperson or Worker visa, and individuals with refugee status or humanitarian protection. Whether your civil partner resides within the UK or plans to return with you, our expert team is here to facilitate your journey towards permanent residency.
Requirements for the Civil Partnership Visa
To be eligible for the Civil Partnership Visa, applicants must ensure:
- Their partner meets the specific status requirements (British, Irish, settled, etc.)
- Both partners are over 18
- The relationship is legally recognised as a civil partnership in the UK
- The partnership is genuine, intending for a shared life in the UK
- Financial and accommodation needs are satisfactorily met
- English language proficiency is demonstrated
Each case is unique, and our immigration lawyers are poised to offer tailored advice, ensuring your application’s success.
Requirements for Successful Application
- Proof of your partner’s eligibility status
- Evidence of age, relationship legality, and genuineness
- Financial stability and adequate living arrangements
- English language proficiency
Financial Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means without recourse to public funds, with specific thresholds for families with children.
Accommodation Requirement
You must show that you have suitable accommodation without overcrowding or health risks, owned or exclusively occupied by you.
English Language Requirement
Applicants must prove English language proficiency, unless exempt, to integrate successfully into the UK.
Expert Assistance from Axis Solicitors
Our immigration solicitors offer personalised guidance on meeting the Civil Partnership Visa requirements. We help navigate the complicated financial prerequisites and provide comprehensive support in gathering the necessary documentation to substantiate your genuine and subsisting relationship.
Securing Your Future in the UK
Upon successfully acquiring the Civil Partnership Visa, you embark on a path towards indefinite leave to remain after five years, laying the foundation for a permanent life in the UK with your partner. Our team is committed to ensuring your application’s success, from initial advice to the preparation of a robust application aligned with the UK Visas and Immigration criteria.
Contact Us Today
Contact our friendly team at Axis Solicitors for expert guidance in securing your civil partnership visa. For a consultation about how we can assist you, call 0800 0487 573 or fill out our online contact form.
Let us help you navigate your way to a successful settlement in the UK with your civil partner.
Understanding Requirements
Understanding the UK Civil Partner Visa
The UK Civil Partner Visa allows you to join or remain with your civil partner in the UK if they are:
- A British or Irish citizen
- Settled in the UK (with indefinite leave to remain, settled status, or proof of permanent residence)
- A Turkish citizen with a Businessperson or Worker visa
- Granted refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK
Important Points
- You can also apply if your civil partner is currently outside the UK but intends to return with you.
- After 5 years on the Civil Partner Visa, you may be eligible for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) in the UK.
Key Requirements for a UK Civil Partner Visa
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
Your Partner:
- Holds British or Irish citizenship.
- Has settled status in the UK (indefinite leave to remain, settled status, proof of permanent residence).
- Holds a Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker visa.
- Has refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK.
Your Relationship
- Both you and your partner are over 18 years old.
- Your relationship is not prohibited by family ties (i.e., you’re not closely related).
- You have met your partner in person.
- Your civil partnership is legally recognised in the UK.
- Your relationship is genuine and ongoing.
- You both intend to live together permanently in the UK.
- Any previous relationships have permanently ended.
Additional Requirements
- You must meet a minimum income requirement.
- You must have adequate accommodation for you and any dependents.
- You must demonstrate a specific level of English proficiency.
Important Note: Specific requirements may vary slightly depending on individual circumstances. For personalised guidance, consider consulting an immigration solicitor.
Your Partner’s Eligibility as a Sponsor
To qualify for a UK Civil Partner Visa, your partner must meet one of the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Be a British or Irish citizen residing in the UK.
- Settled Status: Have indefinite leave to remain, settled status, or proof of permanent residence in the UK.
- Pre-Settled Status: Have pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (Appendix EU).
- Turkish Worker: Have limited leave to remain as a Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker (Appendix ECAA).
- Refugee Status: Have refugee leave or humanitarian protection in the UK.
Important Notes:
- If your partner is a British citizen coming to the UK with you, they also fulfil the sponsorship requirement.
- If your partner is granted indefinite leave to remain at the same time as your application, that also qualifies them as a sponsor.
Age Requirement for the Civil Partner Visa
Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old when you apply for the Civil Partner Visa.
Understanding the UK Civil Partner Visa Relationship Requirements
To qualify for this visa, your relationship must meet the following criteria:
- Legally Allowed: Your relationship must not fall within prohibited degrees of kinship (i.e., you cannot be closely related).
- Valid Civil Partnership: You must be legally in a civil partnership that is recognised in the UK.
- In-Person Meeting: You and your partner must have met in person before applying.
- Genuine and Ongoing: Your relationship must be proven as real and continuing.
- Intent to Live Together: You and your partner must plan to live together permanently in the UK.
- No Prior Entanglements: Any previous relationships (yours or your partner’s) must have ended permanently.
Important Note: The UKVI (UK Visas & Immigration) will thoroughly assess your relationship to ensure it meets these requirements.
Understanding the Prohibited Degree of Relationship Requirement
The UK Civil Partner Visa prohibits civil partnerships between people who are too closely related. This is to protect against harmful or inappropriate relationships.
It Is Prohibited to Form a Civil Partnership With:
- Your direct family members: parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings, aunts/uncles, nieces/nephews. This includes adoptive relationships.
- Former step-family members (step-parents, step-children, etc.)
Additional Rule: If you are in a relationship with any of the following people, you cannot form a civil partnership until BOTH of you are 21 or older:
- Child or grandchild of your former partner (civil or marriage)
- Your former partner’s parent or grandparent
Important: These rules are complex. If you have any questions about whether your relationship qualifies, it’s best to consult an immigration solicitor.
The Requirement to Have Met in Person
For the UK Civil Partner Visa, you and your partner must have met face-to-face at least once. This means more than just briefly seeing each other in passing. You must be able to demonstrate that you had a real interaction that led to getting to know each other.
Let me know if you have questions about how to prove you’ve met this requirement!
Requirement for a UK-Recognised Civil Partnership
To qualify for a UK Civil Partner Visa, you and your partner must be in a civil partnership that is legally recognised by the United Kingdom.
Civil Partnership Requirements in the UK
For your civil partnership to be valid and qualify for the UK Civil Partner Visa, it must meet these conditions:
- Monogamous: You cannot be in another marriage or civil partnership at the same time.
- Legal Process: You must have followed all official procedures, including:
- Giving notice of your intent to form a civil partnership.
- Having the ceremony at a registered location.
- Having the ceremony officiated by an authorised person.
- Age Requirement: Both you and your partner must have been at least 18 years old (in England and Wales) or 16 years old (Scotland and Northern Ireland) at the time of the ceremony.
- Official Certificate: You must have a civil partnership certificate as proof of your legal union.
Recognising a Civil Partnership Formed Outside the UK
Your overseas civil partnership will be recognised in the UK if it meets the following criteria:
- Valid in Country of Origin: The type of civil partnership must be legally recognised where it took place.
- Followed Local Laws: You adhered to all legal requirements of the country where the civil partnership was formed.
- No Conflicts with Home Country Laws: The laws of both partners’ home countries (at the time of the civil partnership) allowed for its recognition.
- Prior Relationships Ended: Any previous civil partnerships (for either partner) were legally dissolved.
- Official Documentation: You have proof equivalent to a civil partnership certificate, valid according to the laws where it was issued.
When an Overseas Relationship Qualifies as a Civil Partnership in the UK
Your relationship formed outside the UK might automatically be recognised as a civil partnership in the UK if it meets all of the following conditions:
- Officially Registered: It’s registered with a recognised authority in the country where it was formed.
- No Existing Marriages/Partnerships: Neither you nor your partner are currently married or in another civil partnership.
- Exclusive Commitment: The relationship is committed and treated like a marriage.
- Indefinite Duration: There’s no set end date for the relationship.
- Recognised by the UK: The type of relationship is on the official list found in Schedule 20 of the Civil Partnership Act 2004 (as updated).
Important Note: If your relationship meets these criteria, you may be eligible for a UK Civil Partner visa without needing to form a new civil partnership in the UK.
Proving a Genuine and Ongoing Relationship
A key requirement for the UK Civil Partner Visa is demonstrating that your relationship is real and continuing. The Home Office will assess this based on the evidence you provide and your individual circumstances.
How the Home Office Assesses Your Relationship
When deciding if your relationship is genuine and ongoing, the Home Office might consider factors like:
- Length of Relationship: How long you and your partner have been together.
- Living Together: Whether you’ve lived together in the past or currently do.
- Shared Children: If you have children together (biological, adopted, or step-children) and share parenting responsibilities.
- Finances: If you share financial responsibilities (joint accounts, bills, etc.).
- Visits and Future Plans: If you’ve visited each other’s home countries, met families, and have concrete plans for living together in the UK.
Important Note: If the Home Office has doubts, they may conduct further investigations, including interviews or a home visit.
Documents to Prove Your Relationship for the Civil Partner Visa
The Home Office wants to see clear evidence that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. This means you’ll need documents demonstrating:
- Regular Contact: Proof of ongoing communication (emails, call logs, chat histories, etc.).
- Affection and Support: Evidence of emotional connection (photos together, cards/gifts, travel together).
- Shared Lives: Proof you are invested in each other’s well-being (supporting each other during difficult times, making future plans together)
Living Together (Cohabitation)
- Ideal: Joint documents are best (shared lease, utility bills, bank accounts).
- Alternatives: If not possible, provide documents addressed to both of you at the same address, dated across a significant period of time.
- Official vs. Unofficial: Official documents are strongest, but other evidence may be used as well.
If You Haven’t Lived Together (Long)
You will need even stronger evidence of your relationship’s authenticity.
The Home Office May Investigate Further
If they doubt your relationship’s validity, they may conduct interviews, home visits, or further checks. Refusal of the visa is possible in these cases.
How an Immigration Solicitor Can Help
Immigration solicitors can offer personalised advice on the best types of documents to prove your relationship based on your unique situation. Axis Solicitors will not just provide generic lists of documents; we will tailor our guidance to your circumstances to present your application in the best way possible. This is to ensure that the strength of your situation and the authentic case for your Civil Partner Visa is demonstrated.
Proving Your Intent to Live Together Permanently in the UK
A crucial requirement for the Civil Partner Visa is demonstrating your intent to live together permanently in the UK with your partner. Here’s what you need to know:
Initial Application:
- You must both express a clear commitment to living together permanently in the UK as soon as possible after your visa is granted.
Applying for Further Leave to Remain (FLR) or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR):
- The Home Office expects that any time spent outside the UK will be:
- Limited in duration
- For valid reasons (e.g., work, holidays, training, study)
- Consistent with your intent to live together permanently in the UK.
Concerns about Living Abroad
- Spending most of your time outside the UK could raise doubts about your permanent residency intentions.
- The Home Office will consider:
- Reasons for your travels
- Length of absences
- Whether you and your partner lived together during any overseas periods
Proving Your Previous Relationships Have Ended
To qualify for a UK Civil Partner Visa, both you and your partner must be legally free to enter a civil partnership. This means:
- No Current Marriages or Civil Partnerships: Neither of you can be currently married or in a civil partnership with another person.
- Proof of Previous Relationship Dissolution: If either of you were previously married or in a civil partnership, you must provide official documents proving the following:
- Divorce decree
- Civil partnership dissolution certificate
- Widower/widow certificate
Understanding the UK Civil Partner Visa Financial Requirement
To qualify for this visa, you must prove you can financially support yourself and any dependents without relying on public assistance in the UK. Here’s what you need to know:
Minimum Income Requirements
- Your partner (or both of you, if you’re already in the UK) must have a gross annual income of at least:
- £18,600 (base amount)
- £3,800 for the first dependent child
- £2,400 for each additional dependent child
Important Notes:
- Different rules apply if your partner receives certain government benefits.
- You must meet this requirement for your initial visa, any extensions, and when applying for indefinite leave to remain.
Complexity and Importance
- The rules surrounding this financial requirement are complex.
- You MUST provide the correct official documents to prove you meet this requirement.
- Failure to provide sufficient evidence is a common reason for visa refusal.
Need Help?
If you are unsure about any financial requirements or the documents you need, arrange a free initial consultation with one of our immigration solicitors for guidance.
How to Prove You Meet the Financial Requirement for a Civil Partner Visa
There are several ways to satisfy the financial requirements for this visa. Here’s a breakdown:
Acceptable Sources of Income
- Employment: Salary from your partner’s job (and yours, if you’re in the UK with work permission).
- Investments: Income from rental properties, dividends, etc.
- Savings: Cash savings above £16,000 held for at least 6 months under you or your partner’s control.
- Pensions: Government, private, or occupational pensions (yours or your partner’s).
- Self-Employment: Income from your partner’s self-employment in the UK (and yours, if applicable).
Important Notes:
- Combining Sources: In some cases, you can combine income sources to meet the requirement.
- Partner on Benefits: Different rules apply if your partner receives specific government benefits.
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Cash savings requirements differ when applying for ILR as a civil partner.
- Exceptional Circumstances: In rare cases where a visa refusal would violate human rights (ECHR Article 8), other income sources might be considered.
Understanding the UK Civil Partner Visa Accommodation Requirement
To qualify for this visa, you must prove you and your partner will have suitable housing in the UK without needing government assistance. This means:
- Ownership or Exclusive Access: You must demonstrate you own or have exclusive right to live in the accommodation.
- Adequate Space: The housing must be large enough for you and your partner without overcrowding.
- Meets Health Standards: The property must comply with all public health regulations.
How to Provide Proof
- Documents showing ownership or legal right to occupy the property (e.g., lease, mortgage agreement).
- Evidence that overcrowding standards will be met (consider the size of the property and number of occupants).
- Confirmation that the property meets health and safety regulations.
Understanding the English Language Requirement for the Civil Partner Visa
You must prove your English language skills to qualify for this visa unless you meet an exemption. Here’s what you need to know:
Proficiency Levels
- Initial Visa/Switching into the Category: Demonstrate at least level A1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
- Further Leave to Remain (after living in the UK as a civil partner): Increase your proficiency to level A2.
How to Prove Your English Skills
- Nationality: Be a citizen of a majority English-speaking country.
- Approved Test: Pass an approved English test at the required CEFR level. [Include a link to the list of approved tests]
- Academic Qualification: Hold a degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) that meets these conditions:
- Earned in the UK, OR
- Earned outside the UK but officially recognised as equivalent to a UK degree, AND
- The degree program was taught in English at the required CEFR level.
Exemptions
You might NOT need to prove your English skills if you:
- Are over 65 years old
- Have a disability that prevents you from meeting the requirement
- Have exceptional circumstances preventing you from fulfilling the requirement before entering the UK
Important Note: Applications will be refused unless you meet the English requirement or qualify for an exemption.
The Importance of the Right Documents for Your UK Civil Partner Visa
The most common reason these visas get denied is insufficient or incorrect supporting documents.
What You Need to Know:
- Strict Rules: The UK has specific requirements for the documents you must include with your application.
- No One-Size-Fits-All: Document needs vary based on your individual situation. Generic checklists can lead to mistakes.
- Consequences of Errors: Missing or incorrect documents can mean visa refusal, lengthy appeals, and having to reapply (which means more cost and delay).
How to Get It Right
- Expert Advice: Immigration solicitors ensure you provide the right documents and that they meet all the official requirements. This significantly boosts your chances of success.
The cost of your UK Civil Partner visa application is based on the fees for the UK family visa applications set by the government.
Understanding UK Civil Partner Visa Application Fees
Application Fees
Applying from outside the UK: £1,846
Switching to the Civil Partner category from within the UK or extending your stay: £1,048
Additional Costs
- You may also need to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. For each adult (18 or older), it costs £2,587.50 for a 2.5-year stay, £3,105 for a 2.75-year stay, and £5,175 for a 5-year stay.
- When applying from the UK, you may be able to pay an extra £1,000 for the super-priority service to get a faster decision.
UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa Processing Times
Processing Times
- Standard (2024): As of 2024, the standard processing duration for the UK Civil Partner Visa is set at approximately 24 weeks from the date of application submission.
- Priority Service (Limited Availability 2024): For applicants seeking an expedited review, the priority service option is available, offering the possibility to receive a decision on your application within a span of 15 to 30 working days.
After Receiving a Civil Partner Visa
- Initial Visa: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a visa valid for 33 months.
- Extending Your Stay: Before your initial visa expires, you must apply for an extension, which will be granted for 30 months if successful.
- After 5 Years: After living in the UK for 5 years on the Civil Partner visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settlement.
Switching to a Civil Partner Visa from Inside the UK: Rules and Limitations
- Who Can Switch: You can generally switch to this visa from within the UK if you have a valid visa that is longer than 6 months.
- Important Exception: Visitors to the UK cannot switch to a Civil Partner Visa. You must leave the UK and apply from your home country.
- Rare Exception: If you are in the UK on a Proposed Civil Partner visa or have a visa granted during family court/divorce proceedings, you might be able to switch within the UK.
Civil Partner Visa: Your Right to Work in the UK
If you are granted a Civil Partner Visa, you have the unrestricted right to work in the United Kingdom.
Understanding Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a Civil Partner
After living in the UK for 5 years on the Civil Partner Visa, you may be eligible for ILR (indefinite leave to remain).
Civil Partnership and ILR Key Requirements:
- 5 Years on Civil Partner Visa: You must have completed the full 5-year period. This includes the initial 2.5-year visa and any extensions.
- Living Together: You must have lived together with your civil partner in the UK throughout this period, or have valid reasons for any time spent apart.
- English Proficiency: Meet the higher B1 English language requirement.
- Life in the UK Test: Pass the test (unless you’re exempt).
Important Notes
- You must apply for ILR before your current Civil Partner Visa expires.
- If you do not meet all ILR requirements, you might still be eligible to extend your Civil Partner Visa.
You Need Axis Solicitors
Secure Your UK Civil Partner Visa Our Solicitors
Our experienced barristers specialise in helping foreign nationals relocate to the UK to be with their civil partners. We have successfully guided hundreds of clients through the Civil Partner Visa process.
We Help You Secure Your Civil Partner Visa By:
- Understanding Your Eligibility: Our team will clearly explain the Civil Partner Visa requirements and assess your individual situation.
- Compiling a Strong Application: We can help you gather the right documents and ensure everything meets the official standards, especially the complex financial rules.
- Personalised and Professional Service: Our solicitors are approachable, proactive, and dedicated to providing clear and reliable advice throughout your application journey.
Why Choose Axis Solicitors?
- Proven track record with Civil Partner Visa applications.
- Expertise in navigating complex financial requirements.
- Client-focused, friendly, and results-driven team.
Contact us today to discuss your case and start your journey to joining your partner in the UK.
Step-by-Step Guide
Your Step-by-Step Guide to the UK Civil Partner Visa (5-Year Route)
The Civil Partner Visa lets you join your partner in the UK and eventually settle permanently.
A Breakdown of the 5-Year Route to Understand the Process:
- Your Eligibility
- Relationship: You must be engaged or in a civil partnership with a UK citizen, someone with settled status, or certain other visa holders.
- Intention to Live Together: You must prove you plan to reside permanently with your partner in the UK.
- Finances: You must show you can support yourselves without relying on public funds.
- Accommodation: Demonstrate you’ll have suitable housing that isn’t overcrowded.
- English Skills: Meet the minimum English language requirement (usually level A1).
- Documents: The Key to Success
- Passports: Yours and your partner’s
- Relationship Proof: Official documents like a civil partnership certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and evidence of cohabitation.
- Civil Partnership Plans: Booking confirmations, invitations, etc.
- Financial Records: Bank statements, employment contracts, income from property, pensions, etc.
- Housing Evidence: Lease, mortgage agreement, documents showing ownership.
- English Test: Approved test results if your nationality doesn’t exempt you.
- Online Application: Start Here
- Official Website: Find the UK government’s visa application portal.
- Careful Completion: Accuracy is vital! Take your time filling out the form.
- Uploads: Submit scanned copies of all your supporting documents.
- Fee Payment
- Current Rates: Check the official site for up-to-date fees; they can be changed.
- Follow Instructions: Make sure you pay correctly to avoid delays.
- Biometrics: Your Identity
- Booking: Schedule your appointment online or at a designated centre.
- Fingerprints & Photo: These are used to verify you are who you say you are.
- Waiting on the UKVI
- Decision Time: Processing can take several weeks or months; be patient.
- Updates: You will be notified by the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI).
Need Help Navigating This Process?
Immigration rules are complex, and the Civil Partner Visa has specific requirements. Axis Solicitors’ immigration solicitors specialise in these cases.
Our Solicitors Are Experts at:
- Assessing your eligibility in detail
- Ensuring your documents are perfect
- Guiding and supporting you through every stage
- Increasing your chances of a successful application
Contact us for a consultation and start your journey to a life together in the UK
Important: The rules and requirements can be complex. Really do consider consulting with a law firm focused on UK immigration law for personalised guidance and support with your application.
UK Civil Partner Visa Processing Time 2024
Processing Times
- Standard (2024): As of 2024, the standard processing duration for the UK Civil Partner Visa is set at approximately 24 weeks from the date of application submission.
- Priority Service (Limited Availability 2024): For applicants seeking an expedited review, the priority service option is available, offering the possibility to receive a decision on your application within a span of 15 to 30 working days.
Important Notes:
- Processing times can change, so check the official UK government website for the most up-to-date information.
- Complex cases might take longer, regardless of whether you use Priority Service.
Costs of a UK Civil Partner Visa (5-Year Route) Application
The cost of your UK Civil Partner visa application is based on the fees for the UK family visa applications set by the government.
Application Fees
- If you are joining your civil partner, the cost is £1,846 if you apply from outside the UK and £1,048 if you apply from within the UK.
Additional Costs
- You may also need to pay the healthcare surcharge as part of your application. For each adult (18 or older), it costs £2,587.50 for a 2.5-year stay, £3,105 for a 2.75-year stay, and £5,175 for a 5-year stay.
- When applying from the UK, you may be able to pay an extra £1,000 for the super-priority service to get a faster decision.
Important Notes:
- Up-to-date Fees: Always consult the official UK government website (https://www.gov.uk/visa-fees) or consult our solicitors for the most accurate, current fee information.
How Our Solicitors Can Help
A successful Civil Partner Visa application lays the foundation for your new life in the UK.
Solicitors Specialising in Immigration Law Can:
- Help ensure you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Assist in compiling the necessary documentation and ensuring it is error-free.
- Provide ongoing support throughout the application process.
Contact us to discuss your Civil Partner Visa application and learn how we can assist you.
How to Save Money and Avoid Headaches
A well-prepared application has the best chance of being approved the first time. Mistakes can lead to rejections, meaning you must reapply and pay the fees again.
Get Help From Axis Solicitors
Axis Solicitors: Your UK Immigration Experts
Let Axis Solicitors simplify Your Civil Partner Visa application and get started on your immigration journey. Our proven expertise and dedicated solicitors will take the worry out of the UK visa application process, leading to successful outcomes for you and your civil partner. We help you develop a clear strategy and conduct meticulous preparation for your application, giving you the best chance of success.
How We Can Assist You:
- Eligibility Assessment: We assess your eligibility, identify the strongest visa option, and tailor a plan for your specific circumstances.
- Document Guidance & Review: Our team will guide you through the document requirements, review them for accuracy, and ensure they effectively showcase your case.
- Application Strategy & Form Completion: Your solicitor can manage the entire process – from form completion and submission to scheduling appointments.
- Submission & Biometrics: We can handle your online submission and appointment scheduling.
- Cover Letter Preparation: Our team crafts a persuasive cover letter to bolster your application.
- Document Upload: We can handle all uploads and official communication, saving you time and stress.
- Home Office Communication: Let our immigration experts navigate the complexities of official communication for you.
- Ongoing Support: Axis Solicitors will support you until the Home Office UKVI makes a decision.
Get Personalised Advice
Secure your future in the UK. Contact Axis Solicitors for personalised visa guidance and a successful UK Civil Partner Visa application. Call 0800 0487 573 or fill out our contact form.
Why Choose Axis Solicitors?
- Experienced Immigration Solicitors
- Successful Track Record
- Tailored Support
- Free Initial Consultation
Request a Consultation Now
Let us discuss your civil partnership visa application. Schedule a consultation that fits your needs: in-person, via phone, or video call.
Flexible Options:
- In-Person Consultations: Meet face-to-face for in-depth discussions in London, Birmingham or Manchester.
- Phone or Video Calls: Convenient options using Microsoft Teams, WhatsApp, Google Meet or Zoom.
Civil Partner Visa (5-Year Route) Assistance
Simplify Your Civil Partner Visa Journey – Get Expert Help Today
Bringing your partner to the UK requires navigating complex rules. Axis Solicitors makes it easier.
- Civil Partner Visa Specialists: We focus on this specific visa type, ensuring we know the latest requirements and best strategies.
- Personalised for Your Success: No two couples are the same – we will develop a plan based on your unique situation.
- Stress-Free Process: Let us manage the paperwork, deadlines, and official communication for you.
Ready to Start? Here’s How:
- Call for Fast Advice: 0800 048 7573
- Fill Out Our Form: Our team will get in touch quickly.
- Email Us: contact@axis.lawyer
Do not let visa worries delay your life together. Contact Axis Solicitors now
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Understanding Your Visa Options
If you want to form a civil partnership in the UK, you will need to apply for one of these visas:
Civil Partnership Visit Visa:
- Purpose: For a short visit to the UK to either form a civil partnership or give notice of your intent to do so.
- Best for: Couples who just need a short time in the UK for the official process.
Proposed Civil Partner Visa:
- Purpose: For engaged partners of UK citizens, settled persons, those with specific visas, or those with refugee/humanitarian protection status.
- Allows you to enter the UK and have your civil partnership ceremony within 6 months of arrival.
- Best for: Couples who want to live in the UK together after their civil partnership.
Important Note: The specific requirements and application processes differ for each visa type.
Where you apply depends on your current situation:
- Living Outside the UK: Apply in your country of residence (even if you’re not a citizen)
- Inside the UK with a Long-Term Visa: You can apply to switch to a Civil Partner Visa from within the UK if your current visa is valid for more than 6 months.
- Inside the UK with a Short-Term Visa: If you have a visitor visa (or another visa less than 6 months), you must leave the UK and apply for a Civil Partner Visa from your home country.
Important Note: The COVID-19 exception that allowed visitors to apply from within the UK is no longer in effect.
The Home Office will likely recognise your overseas civil partnership if it meets these conditions:
- Valid Where Formed: It is a legally recognised type of civil partnership in the country where it took place.
- Followed Local Laws: You adhered to all legal requirements of the country where the ceremony occurred.
- No Conflicts with Home Country Laws: The laws of both partners’ home countries (at the time of the civil partnership) allow its recognition.
- Prior Relationships Ended: Any previous marriages/civil partnerships for both partners were legally dissolved.
Additional Notes:
- Certain age and relationship restrictions apply.
- Some overseas relationships might automatically qualify as civil partnerships under UK law.
Here is a breakdown of the process:
- Initial Civil Partner Visa: You will initially receive a visa for 2.5 years (plus 3 months if you apply from outside the UK).
- Extending Your Visa: Before your visa expires, you must apply for an extension, which gives you another 2.5 years.
- Pathway to Settlement (ILR):
- Most people qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years on the Civil Partner Visa.
- Some situations require a longer, 10-year route to settlement.
- Applying for Citizenship:
- Married to a British Citizen: You can apply for citizenship immediately after obtaining ILR.
- Not Married to a British Citizen: You must wait 1 additional year after getting ILR before applying for citizenship.
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal.
Here is what you need to know:
- Appeal Rights: Civil Partner Visa refusals can be appealed since they’re considered human rights claims.
- Where Your Appeal is Heard: The First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) in the UK will handle your appeal.
- Attending the Appeal:
- Inside the UK: Both you and your partner can attend and give testimony.
- Outside the UK: Your partner can attend, but you’ll provide a written statement and evidence. Remote testimony might be an option in some cases.
- Important Note: Appeals can take many months.
Even if you do not qualify for the standard Civil Partner Visa, you might still be able to enter or stay in the UK on human rights grounds.
Example of Potential Human Rights Grounds:
- You have a British or Irish citizen child in the UK.
- You have a child who has lived in the UK for at least 7 years, and it would be unreasonable to expect them to leave.
- Living outside the UK would cause significant, unavoidable hardship for you and your partner.
- Denying you entry or forcing you to leave would violate your human rights.
Important Note: These cases can be complex. If you think one of these situations might apply to you, it is best to consult with an immigration solicitor for personalised advice.
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