Unmarried Partner Visa

Unmarried Partner Visa — Build Your Future Together in the UK

Love doesn’t always need a marriage certificate to be real. The Unmarried Partner Visa allows committed couples to live together in the UK, even if they are not married or in a civil partnership — as long as the relationship is genuine and long-term.

At The McKenzie Friend, we understand that every relationship is unique. Our role is to make your visa application reflect that authenticity — helping you prove your connection through clear, well-organised evidence and accurate guidance every step of the way.

Who Can Apply for an Unmarried Partner Visa?

You may qualify if:

• You are in a genuine, durable relationship with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK (holding ILR or settled status).
• You have been living together in a relationship similar to marriage for at least two continuous years.
• You both intend to live together permanently in the UK.
• You meet the financial, accommodation, and English language requirements.

Key Requirements

• Relationship proof: Evidence such as shared tenancy agreements, joint bank accounts, utility bills, travel records, or photos together.
• Financial requirement: A combined annual income of at least £18,600 (higher if children are involved).
• Accommodation: Suitable living arrangements for both partners.
• English language: CEFR Level A1 certificate or a degree taught in English.

Documents You’ll Need

• Passports and ID documents for both partners
• Proof of two years of cohabitation (rental agreements, shared bills, council tax letters)
• Photos, messages, or evidence showing the ongoing nature of your relationship
• Bank statements, payslips, or tax records proving financial stability
• Proof of English language ability

Application Process

We’ll guide you step by step to ensure your submission meets the Home Office’s expectations:

1. Consultation & Strategy: We assess your relationship history and determine the best way to demonstrate cohabitation and commitment.
2. Document Preparation: We help you compile and format strong evidence with a logical structure.
3. Form Completion: Assistance with the online application and document upload process.
4. Submission & Biometrics: Support through the booking and attendance of your biometric appointment.
5. Decision & Follow-Up: Continued assistance post-decision, including extensions and ILR after 5 years.

How Long Does It Take?

• Outside the UK: 8–12 weeks (with optional priority service)
• Inside the UK (switching routes): 8 weeks on average

Visa Duration & Next Steps

The Unmarried Partner Visa is initially valid for 30–33 months. You can extend it for another 30 months before becoming eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Once settled, you may later apply for British Citizenship through naturalisation.

Common Reasons for Refusal

Many refusals occur not because the relationship isn’t genuine — but because the evidence isn’t well-presented. Common issues include:

• Gaps in cohabitation evidence (especially if partners lived apart temporarily)
• Incomplete financial documentation
• Insufficient proof of ongoing contact
• Unclear or inconsistent statements

Why Choose The McKenzie Friend?

• Specialists in partner and family visa applications
• Tailored guidance for couples with complex living situations
• Fixed, affordable fees — no hourly billing
• Help with extensions, appeals, and long-term settlement planning

The McKenzie Friend offers professional immigration support and collaborates with OISC-accredited advisers for complex or appeal-level cases.