Proposed Civil Partner Visa

Proposed Civil Partner Visa

Proposed Civil Partnership

At Axis Solicitors, we specialise in guiding individuals through the intricate process of applying for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa. This visa category is designed for engaged partners of British or Irish citizens, or those who are settled or have pre-settled status in the UK, including holders of Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker visas, and individuals with refugee status or humanitarian protection. Our expert team is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of immigration law, ensuring a smooth journey towards starting your new life in the UK.

Who Can Apply?

The UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa is for those intending to enter a civil partnership within 6 months of arrival in the UK. Applicants must be engaged to British or Irish citizens, persons settled in the UK, holders of specific visas, or those granted refugee status or humanitarian protection. It is required to apply from outside the UK, and the visa does not directly lead to settlement. However, it opens the path to extend your stay and eventually apply for indefinite leave to remain after the partnership is registered.

Key Requirements for Eligibility

• Partner Status: Your partner must meet specific criteria, including citizenship, settled status, or holding specific visas.
• Age: Both partners must be over 18.
• Relationship: Must be genuine, having met in person, with intent to live together in the UK.
• Financial Stability: Proof of adequate maintenance without public funds.
• Accommodation: Sufficient living arrangement for you and any dependents.
• English Proficiency: Required level of understanding and speaking English.

Supporting You Every Step of the Way

Navigating the visa application process can be daunting. That is why Axis Solicitors offers comprehensive support, from understanding the intricate requirements to compiling the necessary documentation. Our expertise in immigration law ensures that your application is robust and meets all the criteria set by UK Visas and Immigration.

Get Expert Advice Today

If you are considering applying for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa, seek professional advice. Contact Axis Solicitors today Call 0800 0487 573 or fill out our contact form. 

Embark on your journey to a new life in the UK with confidence, backed by the support and expertise of Axis Solicitors.

Understanding Requirements

Understanding the UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa

The UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa is for individuals engaged to:

• British or Irish citizens
• Persons settled in the UK (those with indefinite leave to remain, settled status, or proof of permanent residence)
• Individuals holding a Turkish Businessperson or Turkish worker visa
• Individuals granted refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK

Key Points

• You must apply for this visa from outside the UK.
• Your plan is to establish a civil partnership in the UK within half a year of your arrival.
• This visa does not directly lead to settlement. Following your civil partnership, you are eligible to apply for an extension of your stay via the Civil Partner visa pathway.
• Staying on the Civil Partner visa route for 5 years can lead to indefinite leave to remain (settlement) in the UK.

UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa: Requirements

To be eligible for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

Your Partner:

• Holds British or Irish citizenship.
• Settled status, indefinite leave to remain, and proof of permanent residence in the UK.
• Possesses a Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker visa.
• Has been granted refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK.

Relationship:

• Both you and your partner are over 18 years old.
• You have had a face-to-face meeting.
• Your connection is authentic and continuous.
• You plan to formalise a civil partnership in the UK within half a year of your entry.
• Any previous relationships have permanently ended.
• You both plan to live together permanently in the UK.

Financial and Living Arrangements:

• You can financially support yourself and any dependents without relying on public funds.
• You have adequate accommodation arrangements for you and any dependents.

English Language:

• You have the required level of English language 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

For you to qualify for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa, your partner must meet one of the following requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a resident of the UK with British or Irish citizenship.
• Residential Status: Possess indefinite leave to remain, settled status, or evidence of permanent residency in the UK.
• Pre-Settled Status: Have pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (Appendix EU).
• Turkish Worker: Holds limited leave to remain as a Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker (Appendix ECAA).
• Refugee Status: Holds UK refugee leave or has humanitarian protection status.

Important Notes:

• If your partner is a British citizen coming to the UK with you, they also fulfil the sponsorship requirement.
• A person granted indefinite leave to remain at the same time as your application is also considered a valid sponsor.

Minimum Age Requirement

Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old when you submit your Proposed Civil Partner Visa application.

Relationship Requirements: Proposed Civil Partner Visa

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).
• 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 Form Civil Partnership: You must plan to register your civil partnership within 6 months of your arrival in the UK.
• No Prior Entanglements: Any previous relationships (yours or your partner’s) must have ended permanently.
• Intent to Live Together: You and your partner should intend to establish a permanent residence together in the UK.

Important Note: The UKVI (UK Visas & Immigration) will thoroughly assess your relationship to ensure it meets these requirements.

Meeting in Person and Proving a Genuine Relationship

Two crucial requirements for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa are:

• Meeting in Person: You and your partner must have met face-to-face. Brief encounters followed by only phone or online contact will not suffice.
• Proving a Genuine and Ongoing Relationship: You must provide the Home Office with evidence that your relationship is real and continuing. This includes factors like:
• Length of your relationship
• Whether you’ve lived together
• If you have any children together (and share responsibilities for them)
• Shared financial responsibilities
• Visits to each other’s home countries and families
• Concrete plans for living together in the UK

How the Home Office Assesses Your Relationship

• Each case is evaluated individually based on the evidence you provide.
• If the Home Office has doubts about your relationship, they may conduct interviews, further investigations, or even a home visit.

Documents to Prove Your Relationship for the Proposed 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.

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. We do more than just provide generic lists, we will tailor our guidance to your circumstances.

Proving Your Intent to Form a Civil Partnership in the UK

A key requirement for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa is demonstrating your intent to register a civil partnership in the UK within 6 months of arrival. This is because the visa itself is only valid for 6 months.

To satisfy the Home Office, you should provide evidence of your plans, such as:

• Booking a Ceremony Venue: A reservation or contract for a civil partnership venue in the UK.
• Notice of Intent: Confirmation that you have given official notice of your intent to form a civil partnership.
• Other Arrangements: Evidence of any additional arrangements made for your civil partnership ceremony (e.g., invitations, catering).

Important Note: The more concrete evidence you provide, the stronger your application will be.

Proving Your Previous Relationships Have Ended

To qualify for a UK Proposed 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

Proving Intent to Live Together Permanently in the UK

A crucial requirement for the Proposed 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

UK Proposed 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.

Meet the Financial Requirement for a Proposed 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: Sometimes, 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.

UK Proposed 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.

Important Note: These accommodation requirements also apply to other UK family visas, such as the Spouse Visa or Fiancé(e) Visa.

English Language Requirement for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa

You must prove your English language skills to qualify for this visa unless you meet an exemption. Here is what you need to know:

Proficiency Levels

• Initial Visa: Demonstrate at least level A1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
• Further, Leave to Remain (after 2.5 years): 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 if you do not meet the English requirement and do not qualify for an exemption.

The Importance of the Right Documents for Your UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa

The number one reason these visas get denied is insufficient or incorrect supporting documents. Here is 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: Qualified Immigration Solicitors ensure you provide the right documents and that they meet all the official requirements. This significantly boosts your chances of success.

UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa Costs and Processing Times

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.

Processing Times

• Standard (2024): As of 2024, the standard processing duration for the UK Proposed 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

• You must apply for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa from outside the UK. You cannot switch from a different visa category within the UK.
• If you urgently need to visit the UK during processing, you may need to consider a different visa type.

Receiving the Proposed Civil Partner Visa

What Happens After a Successful Application?

• Initial Visa: If your application is approved, you will receive a visa valid for 6 months.
• After Your Civil Partnership: Once you have had your civil partnership ceremony in the UK, you can apply to switch to a Civil Partner visa without leaving the country.
• Civil Partner Visa: If approved, you will get a 30-month civil partner visa. Thereafter, you must extend this visa for another 30-month period before it expires.
• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): After living in the UK for 5 years on the Civil Partner visa, you can apply for ILR (also known as settlement).

Secure Your UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa With Axis Solicitors

Our experienced solicitors specialise in helping foreign nationals relocate to the UK to be with their civil partners. We offer expert guidance and support through every step of the process:

• Understanding Your Eligibility: We will assess your situation and clearly explain the Proposed Civil Partner Visa requirements.
• Compiling a Strong Application: Your solicitor will help you gather the necessary documents, ensuring you meet all the requirements, especially the complex financial rules.
• Personalised and Professional Service: We remain committed to understanding your unique needs and providing clear, reliable advice throughout your application journey.

Why Choose Us?

• Successful track record with Proposed Civil Partner Visa applications.
• Expertise in navigating complex financial requirements.
• Axis Solicitors is a client-focused, results-driven and approachable law firm.
• Offices in Manchester, Birmingham and London.

Contact us today to discuss your case and start your journey to joining your partner in the UK.

Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa

Embarking on the application process for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa involves a sequence of carefully structured steps. Here’s how to navigate through:

• Verify Eligibility: Begin by ensuring you fulfil all the eligibility requirements for the visa. This involves reviewing specific criteria such as relationship status, financial stability, accommodation arrangements, and English language proficiency.
• Compile Necessary Documentation: Collect all required documents that validate your eligibility. This includes your valid passport, proof of your relationship, evidence of intent to marry or form a civil partnership, financial records, accommodation evidence, and an English language test certificate.
• Online Application Submission: Utilise the designated application form available online to formally apply. This step involves accurately filling out your details and uploading the necessary documents.
• Application Fee Payment: Proceed to pay the applicable visa application fee. Ensure the payment is completed as per the instructions provided to avoid any delays in processing.
• Biometric Appointment Attendance: Schedule and attend a biometric appointment where your fingerprints and a photograph will be taken. This is a crucial part of the application process for identity verification purposes.
• Await Decision: Once all the above steps are completed, the only remaining task is to wait for the decision on your visa application. This period will vary based on a number of factors, including the time of year and the complexity of your application.

Following this structured approach will help streamline your UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa application process.

UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa Processing Timeframe in 2024

As of 2024, the standard processing duration for the UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa is set at approximately 24 weeks from the date of application submission. 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. This faster processing service is designed to accommodate those requiring an accelerated decision.

UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa Application Costs

For those applying from outside the UK, the application fee for the UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa is currently set at £1,846 for the standard service. Applicants seeking a quicker resolution can opt for the priority service, which necessitates an additional fee on top of the standard application charge.

It is important to be aware that these fees are variable and may be updated. Thus, applicants are strongly advised to consult the official UK government website for the most current fee information prior to submitting their visa application.

Axis Solicitors Solicitors Can:

• Help ensure you meet all eligibility requirements.
• Assist in compiling the necessary documentation and ensuring that it is error-free.
• Provide ongoing support throughout the application process.

Contact us to discuss your Proposed Civil Partner Visa application and learn how we can assist you.

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

At Axis Solicitors, our experienced immigration solicitors provide comprehensive support throughout your UK visa application.  We tailor our services to your unique needs, ensuring a smooth and successful application process.

How We Can Assist You:

• Eligibility Assessment: We will determine the best visa category for your situation.
• Document Guidance & Review: Our team will help you gather the right documents and ensure they meet all requirements.
• Application Strategy & Form Completion: Your solicitor will strengthen your application and assist in completing all the forms accurately.
• Submission & Biometrics: We can handle your online submission and appointment scheduling.
• Cover Letter Preparation: Our experts can craft a compelling letter to support your case.
• Document Upload: We will ensure your documents are uploaded correctly.
• Home Office Communication: Our team can manage all official communication for you.
• Ongoing Support: Axis Solicitors will support you until the Home Office UKVI makes a decision.

Get Personalised Advice

Contact our friendly team at Axis Solicitors for expert guidance on your UK Proposed 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

For Proposed UK Civil Partnership immigration advice, you can arrange an in-person, video call or phone consultation. 

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.