At Whytecroft Ford, we specialise in assisting individuals with UK visa applications, including the Unmarried Partner Visa under Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules. Our expertise ensures that applicants meet the complex eligibility requirements, particularly when proving a committed relationship without formal marriage.
In this success story, we share how we helped a Norwegian national obtain entry clearance as the unmarried partner of a British citizen, enabling him to reunite with his family in the UK.
Case Background: A Decade-Long Partnership
Our client, a Norwegian citizen, had been in a committed relationship with his British partner since 2011. The couple had cohabited since 2013 and raised their British children together. Despite their long-standing partnership, they had never legally married, making them eligible under the Unmarried Partner Visa category rather than the Spouse Visa.
Having lived and worked in the UK for 20 years under EEA free movement rights, the applicant relocated to Europe with his partner in 2014. Over the years, their family resided in multiple countries across Europe. However, they remained deeply connected to the UK and decided that settling in the UK was the best step for their family’s future.
Key Challenges in the Unmarried Partner Visa Application
1. Proving a Genuine and Subsisting Relationship
For an Unmarried Partner Visa, applicants must provide strong evidence that their relationship is akin to marriage and has been continuous for at least two years before applying. Since the couple had lived in various countries, they needed to compile extensive documentation proving their cohabitation history and shared responsibilities as a family.
2. Meeting the Financial Requirement
To satisfy the financial threshold under Appendix FM, the applicant relied on cash savings exceeding the required amount. However, demonstrating compliance involved:
- Providing detailed bank statements
- Meeting the minimum holding period requirement
- Showing a legitimate source of funds
3. Establishing Suitable UK Accommodation
As the family had been living abroad, it was essential to prove that they had adequate accommodation available upon returning to the UK. The couple secured a private guest house owned by the British partner’s parents, fulfilling the accommodation requirement under UK immigration rules.
4. Meeting the English Language Requirement
The applicant needed to prove his English language proficiency. Fortunately, his degree from a US university was recognised as equivalent to a UK qualification, supported by an ECCTIS statement (formerly UK NARIC).
How Whytecroft Ford Successfully Secured the Unmarried Partner Visa
With our expert guidance, we prepared a strong and well-structured application to ensure every requirement was fully met. Our approach included:
- Proving Cohabitation & Relationship: We gathered robust evidence of over 10 years of cohabitation, including tenancy agreements, joint financial records, correspondence, and supporting statements from friends and professionals
- Financial Documentation Compliance: We carefully structured the applicant’s financial documents to meet Home Office rules on cash savings, ensuring all bank statements, transaction records, and source of funds evidence were in order.
- Accommodation Proof: A detailed accommodation letter was provided along with a Housing Report, outlining the suitability of their intended UK residence.
- Organised Supporting Documents: We meticulously prepared all supporting evidence, including identity documents, proof of relationship history, and dependency proof for their children.
Outcome: Unmarried Partner Visa Approved
Thanks to a thorough and well-prepared application, the applicant successfully obtained entry clearance as an Unmarried Partner of a British citizen. This approval allowed him to reunite with his family in the UK, ensuring stability and a future together.
Applying for an Unmarried Partner Visa? We Can Help
The Unmarried Partner Visa can be complex, requiring substantial documentation to prove a genuine relationship, financial stability, and UK accommodation. At Whytecroft Ford, we provide expert immigration guidance to help applicants navigate the process smoothly.
Need help with your Unmarried Partner Visa application? Contact us today for professional assistance.
