Written by For many couples, living together in the UK is an important step toward building a future. The UK defacto visa, often referred to as the unmarried partner visa, provides a pathway for long-term partners of British citizens or settled individuals to reside and work in the country. At Visa and Migration Ltd, we regularly guide applicants through this process, ensuring their cases are prepared thoroughly to meet the Home Office requirements.
What is a UK Defacto Visa?
The defacto visa category is designed for individuals who are in a genuine and subsisting relationship but are not married or in a civil partnership. To qualify, you must demonstrate that you and your partner have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least two years. This category falls under the family visa routes and provides a foundation for settlement in the UK.
Key Eligibility Criteria
Applicants need to satisfy several conditions before applying:
- Relationship evidence – Proof of living together for at least two years, such as joint tenancy agreements, utility bills, or bank statements.
- Immigration status of the partner – Your partner must be a British citizen, hold indefinite leave to remain, or have refugee/humanitarian protection in the UK.
- Financial requirement – The sponsoring partner usually needs to demonstrate a minimum income of £18,600 per year, with higher thresholds if children are included.
- English language requirement – Applicants must meet the English language standard either through a recognised test or an academic qualification taught in English.
Documents Required
A successful application depends heavily on providing clear evidence. Common documents include:
- Valid passport and biometric information.
- Proof of cohabitation covering a continuous two-year period.
- Evidence of financial stability such as payslips, tax returns, or savings.
- English language test certificate or proof of exemption.
Our team at Visa and Migration Ltd helps clients organise their paperwork effectively, minimising the risk of refusals due to missing or insufficient evidence.
Application Process
Applications are usually submitted online, followed by an appointment at a visa application centre to provide biometrics and supporting documents. Decisions are typically made within 12 weeks, though priority services may be available for faster outcomes.
If approved, the visa is initially granted for 33 months if applying from outside the UK or 30 months from within the country. After five years of continuous residence, applicants can usually apply for indefinite leave to remain, provided all requirements continue to be met.
Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them
Many applications are refused due to inadequate documentation, failure to prove cohabitation, or not meeting the financial criteria. Working with an experienced immigration solicitor can help address these issues proactively. At Visa and Migration Ltd, we carefully review each case and provide detailed guidance tailored to your situation.
Why Choose Professional Support?
The rules surrounding family visas are detailed and frequently updated. A professional immigration adviser ensures you are fully prepared and your case is presented strongly. From preparing evidence bundles to communicating with the Home Office, having expert support greatly increases the likelihood of success.
Final Thoughts
The UK defacto visa offers an important opportunity for unmarried partners to live and build their lives together in the UK. Meeting the eligibility requirements, submitting the correct documents, and presenting a strong application are critical for success. At Visa and Migration Ltd, we provide personalised advice and representation to help couples navigate this process confidently.
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