What Is the UK Unmarried Partner Visa?
The UK Unmarried Partner visa is the immigration route for those who are in a genuine, committed, and durable relationship with a British citizen or settled person but who are not married or in a civil partnership. It falls under Appendix FM and offers the same pathway to settlement as the Spouse visa, provided all requirements are met. Unlike the Spouse visa, it requires the couple to demonstrate that they have been living together for at least two years before applying.
The Two-Year Cohabitation Requirement
The couple must have been living together in the same household continuously for at least two years immediately before the date of application. Evidence of two years of cohabitation typically includes joint tenancy or mortgage agreements, joint utility bills, joint bank account statements, correspondence addressed to both partners at the same address, and any other documentation confirming shared residence over the relevant period. Gaps in cohabitation can be problematic and must be addressed carefully in the evidence.
Other Requirements
- Financial requirement — sponsor must demonstrate income of at least £29,000 per year gross for new applications
- English language requirement — CEFR Level A1 for the initial application
- Suitable and non-overcrowded accommodation available
- Relationship is genuine, subsisting, and exclusive
- Intention to live together permanently in the UK
What Evidence Is Needed?
A comprehensive, well-organised bundle of evidence is essential — covering the length of the relationship, the history of cohabitation, and the genuine nature of the commitment. Useful evidence includes joint tenancy or mortgage documentation, utility bills and bank statements at a shared address, joint bank account statements, photographs together at various points in the relationship, communication records, letters or statements from friends and family, and evidence of shared travel or holidays.
Unmarried Partner Visa vs Fiancé Visa
The Fiancé visa is for couples engaged to be married who intend to marry within six months of arrival in the UK. It is a temporary visa and does not itself lead to settlement — the holder must marry and then apply to switch to a Spouse visa. The Unmarried Partner visa, by contrast, is a route to settlement in its own right and does not require the couple to marry.