Updated rules for UK Unmarried Partners Visa – Home Office update 2024
For a long time, it’s been very difficult to sponsor an Unmarried Partner to live in the UK when you haven’t been living together for two years. On top of that, even if you have been living together for the required time, it can still be difficult to prove it with the correct documentation.
This was particularly disappointing if you were living apart for legitimate reasons such as religious beliefs, work or study commitments or family concerns. It was also challenging if you were living together but in a country where it was difficult to get hold of official evidence of an address that the Home Office would accept.
Well, thankfully a rule update in this route has allowed some form of leniency. So, let’s look at this new rule update and what it means for people who want to pursue the Unmarried Partners’ route.
‘Cohabitation’ no longer a must requirement for sponsoring an Unmarried Partner (though preferable)
In short, the Home Office is prepared to consider the non-cohabitation aspect. The couple in question now only need to have been in a ‘relationship similar to marriage or civil partnership’ for a period of two years plus other requirements below.
Therefore, the current qualifications are as follows:
- The couple must have met in person;
- The relationship must have resembled a marriage or civil partnership for at least two years, indicating its authenticity and longevity;
- The relationship must still be genuine and subsisting at the time of application;
- The couple must demonstrate an intention to permanently reside together in the UK, along with fulfilling financial, accommodation, and other necessary requirements;
- Any previous relationship must have broken down permanently.
There is one important thing to note. While a two-year cohabitation period is no longer mandatory, it does remain a significant factor in convincing the Home Office of the authenticity and longevity of the relationship when applying for a visa.
If the couple is not living together, they will need to prove that they have an ongoing commitment to each other by providing the following evidence:
- Regular communication with each other;
- Financial support for each other;
- Support and care for any children involved together;
- Time spent together as a couple such as going on holidays, events, weekly or monthly meetings.
The removal of this stipulation is going to make life easier for many, especially in a time when we are seeing an overall tightening of UK immigration laws. Lastly and most importantly, it is worth noting that the UK Unmarried Partner Visa can lead to indefinite leave to remain or settlement after a period of 5 years.
Putting together an Unmarried Partner visa application is a long process, requiring a strategic approach to documenting each aspect of the relationship and proving your eligibility for a visa. With this in mind, it’s never been more important to get the advice of an expert when you’re starting out on your immigration journey. With an unrivalled success rate, YI Solutions will be by your side throughout the entire process. Contact us for a free consultation and let us assist you on your visa application journey.
