Applicants for a UK Fiance Visa must demonstrate a genuine intention to marry or enter into a civil partnership within six months of arriving in the UK. Under the Immigration Rules, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) must be satisfied that the applicant is entering the UK specifically for this purpose. This post discusses how Fiance Visa applicants can prove their intention to marry in the UK.
UKVI assesses Fiance Visa applications with particular attention to both the genuineness of the relationship and the couple’s commitment to marry within the six-month validity period. This evidential requirement is central to the eligibility criteria under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules. The responsibility to provide sufficient, credible documentation lies entirely with the applicant and their partner. A failure to do so may result in refusal or significant delays in processing.
How to Prove Intention to Marry for a UK Fiance Visa
To satisfy the Home Office UKVI, applicants must provide a reasonable amount of documentary and circumstantial evidence that shows active preparation and mutual involvement in planning the marriage or civil partnership. The evidence should ideally reflect a realistic and timely plan for the ceremony, taking place within the permitted six-month window.
The more detailed and consistent the documentation, the stronger the application. In addition to booking confirmations and correspondence with wedding service providers, the inclusion of personal declarations, planning logs, and social proof is strongly encouraged. If any documents are in a language other than English, certified translations must be included.
Supporting Documents to Prove Intention to Marry
The nature and quantity of evidence will vary based on the individual circumstances of the couple. Although there is no fixed checklist to prove intention to marry, the Home Office UKVI may accept a range of supporting evidence, including:
- Notice of Marriage Appointment Confirmation – A confirmation email or letter from a UK register office evidencing a scheduled appointment.
- Venue Reservation or Provisional Booking – Booking confirmations from venues, registry offices, or places of worship.
- Written confirmation from the minister of religion (if applicable) – written confirmation from the person who will be officiating the wedding or ceremony
- Correspondence with Vendors – Communication with florists, photographers, caterers, or planners showing concrete planning activity.
- Invoices and Receipts – Payments or deposits made for wedding services or items, such as attire or rings.
- Personal Statements – Declarations from both the applicant and the UK sponsor describing the relationship and the intent to marry.
- Wedding invites – evidence of invitations sent for the wedding or ceremony
- Travel and Accommodation – Travel bookings that coincide with the proposed timeline for the marriage.
- Screenshots of Communication – Logs of consistent interaction between the couple, reflecting joint planning efforts.
- Photographic and Social Evidence – Photographs together, particularly at significant milestones or family events.
- Social Proof – announcements made on social media
- Supporting Statements – letters of support from friends and family in support of the couple marrying in the UK.
UK Fiance Visa: Conditions of Stay
If approved, the UK Fiance Visa allows the applicant to enter the UK for six months to get married or enter into a civil partnership. During this period:
- The applicant cannot work or access public funds.
- The time spent under this visa does not count towards settlement (ILR).
- If the marriage or civil partnership is completed within the six months, the applicant may apply for a Spouse Visa or Civil Partner Visa from within the UK.
- If marriage or civil partnership cannot occur within six months, the applicant must apply for an extension, providing sufficient justification and evidence of genuine intent.
How Whytecroft Ford Can Help
At Whytecroft Ford, we understand that UK Fiance Visa applications involve a combination of personal sensitivity and strict legal requirements. Our experienced UK immigration team assist clients by preparing legally sound and fully documented visa applications, ensuring that each key requirement is properly addressed.
To speak with our team about your UK Fiance Visa application, contact us on +44 208 757 5751 or via our contact form.
UK Fiance Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
The UK Fiance Visa allows non-UK nationals to enter the UK and marry or enter into a civil partnership with their British or settled partner within six months of arrival.
Applicants must:
– Be in a genuine and subsisting relationship
– Both must be over 18 years of age
– Have met in person
– Intend to marry within six months in the UK
– Intend to live together permanently in the UK
– Meet the English language requirement
– Meet the financial and accommodation requirements
– Satisfy suitability criteria (no serious immigration or criminal history)
Processing usually takes up to 12 weeks. Priority services may reduce this to around 6 weeks.
It is valid for six months from the date of entry.
If marriage or civil partnership cannot take place within six months, an extension may be possible with evidence of a valid reason and continued intention.
