Personal Immigration
Proposed Civil Partner Visa
Navigating the UK immigration process can be complex, particularly when it involves forming a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK. At Legal Pathway Solicitors, we are here to simplify this journey for you with expert legal guidance on the Proposed Civil Partner Visa application.
Proposed Civil Partner Visa
What is a Proposed Civil Partner Visa?
The Proposed Civil Partner Visa is designed for individuals engaged to British citizens or those who are permanently settled in the UK, including holders of specific visas or those with refugee status. This visa allows you to enter the UK to register your civil partnership within six months of arrival. While it does not directly lead to settlement, it opens a pathway to extend your stay and eventually apply for indefinite leave to remain once the partnership is formalised.
This visa is essential for couples who intend to make the UK their home after formalising their relationship. At Legal Pathway, we have qualified solicitors who specialise in helping applicants with the UK application process for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa, you and your partner must meet several key requirements:
- Partner Status: Your partner must be a British or Irish citizen, have settled status, hold specific visas, or have refugee status.
- Age: Both partners must be over 18 years old.
- Relationship: The relationship must be genuine and ongoing, with prior in-person meetings and intent to live together in the UK.
- Financial Stability: Proof of sufficient funds to maintain yourselves without public assistance.
- Accommodation: Suitable living arrangements must be in place for you and any dependents.
- English Proficiency: You must meet the required level of English language proficiency.
Application Process
Applying for the Proposed Civil Partner Visa involves several steps:
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the criteria, including relationship status, financial stability, and English proficiency.
- Compile Documentation: Gather necessary documents, such as passports, proof of relationship, financial records, and accommodation evidence.
- Submit Online Application: Complete the application form and upload the required documents.
- Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee.
- Attend Biometric Appointment: Schedule and attend an appointment for fingerprinting and photographs.
Processing Times and Costs
As of 2024, the standard processing time for this visa is approximately 24 weeks. For a quicker decision, you can opt for the priority service, which expedites the process to 15-30 working days. The application fee for applying from outside the UK is £1,846. Additional costs may include the healthcare surcharge and, if applicable, fees for the priority service.
Post-Approval Steps
Once your visa is approved, it will be valid for six months. During this time, you must register your civil partnership in the UK. After your ceremony, you can apply to switch to a Civil Partner Visa, initially granted for 30 months, with the possibility to extend for another 30 months. After five years, you may be eligible for indefinite leave to remain.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Understanding the common reasons for refusal can help you avoid mistakes:
- Insufficient evidence of relationship
- Failure to meet financial requirements
- Incomplete or incorrect application forms
- Lack of English language proficiency
What to Do If Your Application Is Refused
If your Proposed Civil Partner Visa application is refused, you may have the right to appeal. This process involves:
- Submitting an appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) in the UK.
- Additional evidence must be provided and attended to at a hearing, either in person or via written statements and remote testimony.
Why Choose Legal Pathway Solicitors?
The visa application process can be daunting. Legal Pathway Solicitors offer:
- Expert Guidance: Our team of experienced immigration solicitors will guide you through every step of the application process.
- Tailored Support: We provide personalised advice and representation, ensuring your application is as strong as possible.
- Appeal Assistance: If your visa is refused, we can assess your case, help you prepare for an appeal, and represent you at the hearing.
Support from Legal Pathway Solicitors
Our services include:
- Eligibility Assessment: We evaluate your situation to ensure you meet all visa requirements.
- Document Guidance: We assist in gathering and reviewing all necessary documentation.
- Application Assistance: We help complete application forms accurately and effectively.
- Submission and Follow-Up: We manage your online submission and biometric appointments and handle communication with UK Visas and Immigration.
Contact Us
Embark on your journey to a new life in the UK with confidence. Contact Legal Pathway Solicitors for expert guidance and support. Call us at 0808 196 6308 or fill out our contact form to discuss your case and start your application process today.
By choosing Legal Pathway Solicitors, you ensure that your application is thorough, accurate, and has the best chance of approval. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of the UK immigration system, providing personalised and professional service every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions related to the Proposed Civil Partner Visa and Civil Partnerships in the UK.
How Do You Register a Civil Partnership in the UK?
Understanding Your Visa Options
If you plan to form a civil partnership in the UK, you will need to apply for one of the following visas:
Civil Partnership Visit Visa:
- Purpose: This visa allows you to visit the UK either to form a civil partnership or to give notice of your intent to do so.
- Best for: Couples who require a short stay in the UK to complete the official process.
Proposed Civil Partner Visa:
- Purpose: This visa is intended for engaged partners of UK citizens, settled persons, individuals with specific visas, or those granted refugee or humanitarian protection status. It allows you to enter the UK and have your civil partnership ceremony within six months of arrival.
- Best for: Couples who wish to live together in the UK after their civil partnership ceremony.
Important Note: Each visa type has its own specific requirements and application processes. It is crucial to understand these differences to ensure a smooth application process.
For detailed guidance and assistance with your visa application, contact Legal Pathway Solicitors today. Let our solicitors help you through the complexities of the UK immigration process and successfully register your civil partnership.
Where Do I Submit My Application for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa?
If you intend to apply for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa, it is essential to submit your application from outside the UK. Here’s how to determine the appropriate location for your application:
Country of Residence: Submit your application from the country where you legally reside, not where you are temporarily visiting.
Citizenship Not Required: You do not need to be a citizen of the country from which you are applying, but you must have legal residency there.
Important Note: Submitting your application from the correct location is critical to ensure it is processed smoothly and efficiently.
For expert advice and assistance with your UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa application, contact Legal Pathway Solicitors. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your application meets all necessary requirements.
What to Do If Your Proposed Civil Partner Visa Is Refused
If your application for a UK Proposed Civil Partner Visa has been refused, you likely have the right to appeal the decision. Here’s what you need to know:
Appeal Rights: Proposed Civil Partner Visa applications fall under human rights claims, granting you the right to appeal.
Appeal Venue: Appeals are heard by the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) in the UK.
Attending the Appeal:
- From Inside the UK: Both you and your partner can attend the hearing and provide testimony.
- From Outside the UK: Your partner can attend the hearing in the UK, while you will need to submit written statements and evidence. In some cases, remote testimony may be possible.
Important Note: Appeals can be complex and time-consuming. It is crucial to approach the process with thorough preparation and expert guidance.
Get Expert Help
A specialist immigration solicitor can:
- Assess whether you have strong grounds for an appeal
- Guide you through the entire appeals process
- Represent you effectively at the appeal hearing
For professional assistance with your appeal, contact Legal Pathway Solicitors. Our experienced civil partnership solicitors are dedicated to helping you achieve a successful outcome.
