The main eligibility requirements
To grant the visa, the Home Office looks at a few core areas. A small gap in your evidence is one of the most common reasons applications are delayed or refused, so it's worth checking each carefully.
- Relationship: married, in a civil partnership, or living together for at least two years, with the intention to live together permanently
- Finances: a minimum income requirement, usually shown through your sponsoring partner's earnings or savings. The figure changes, so check GOV.UK for the current threshold
- Accommodation: somewhere suitable to live that isn't overcrowded and doesn't rely on public funds
- English language: most applicants must show a good knowledge of English, normally through an approved test or qualification (some are exempt)
The process and what to expect
You apply online and pay the relevant fees, usually including the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access — both change over time, so check GOV.UK for the current amounts.
You then book a biometrics appointment and submit documents proving your relationship, finances, accommodation and English. If granted from outside the UK, the visa is normally issued for two years and nine months. You can later extend it and, after living in the UK continuously for the qualifying period (currently five years on this route), apply to settle permanently.
How ILUK helps
Immigration Lawyers UK is a network of independent, SRA-regulated immigration solicitors working on a fixed-fee basis across the UK, including London, Manchester and Birmingham. SRA-regulated means your solicitor is authorised and overseen by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
A solicitor reviews your relationship history and finances, tells you honestly whether you meet the requirements, and helps you put together a clear, well-evidenced application. Because the fee is agreed up front, you know what you're paying before any work begins.
What to do next
If you're thinking about a Partner Visa, the simplest first step is a free, no-pressure call-back. Talk through your situation with someone who understands the rules, ask the questions worrying you, and find out where you stand.
Request your free call-back today and a member of the network will be in touch, at your pace.
Frequently asked questions
Do we have to be married to apply?
No. As well as married couples and civil partners, you can usually apply as an unmarried partner if you've been living together in a genuine, committed relationship for at least two years when you apply. You'll need evidence covering that period.
How much money do we need to qualify?
There's a minimum income requirement, normally met through your sponsoring partner's earnings or savings. The exact figure changes, so check GOV.UK for the current threshold, or ask a solicitor to look at your finances.
How long does a Partner Visa last?
From outside the UK it's usually granted for two years and nine months. You can extend it, and after living in the UK continuously for the qualifying period (currently five years on this route) you may be able to settle permanently.
Is the first call really free?
Yes. The initial assessment call-back is genuinely free and there's no pressure to go ahead — just a chance to explain your situation and get an honest view of your options.