A Civil partnership visa permits a person in a same-sex relationship who is not a Eurpoean Economic Area (EEA) national or United Kingdom (UK) national to come to the UK to settle with their partner, who is an EEA or UK national. You will need entry clearance granted prior to arrival in the UK.
Civil partnerships are a legal relationship registered between two people of the same sex. A civil partnership is the equivalent of a civil marriage, but for same-sex couples. Same-sex couples who register a civil partnership will be treated similarly on a range of legal matters to opposite-sex couples who enter into a civil marriage.
Civil Partner visa rules
If you are in a same-sex relationship similar to marriage you may be eligible for this visa. To qualify for admission as a civil partner, you must show that you have both met and are committed to the relationship. The relationship must be monogamous. As civil partners, you both must intend to live together, and establish a permanent home together.
As the applicant, you will need to show that you are a civil partner of:
- a person who is present and settled in the United Kingdom, or
- a person who will arrive with you to be admitted for settlement
It is important to demonstrate that there will be adequate accommodation for you and any dependants to occupy exclusively, and that you will be able to maintain yourselves and any dependants without turning to public funds.
Once issued, entry clearance will be valid for two years if your partner is a UK national, or five years if your partner is an EEA national.
Visa Service
It is your responsibility to satisfy the Entry Clearance Officer that you meet all the criteria set out by the Immigration Rules. Before you submit your application, ensure that you are well prepared. An Entry Clearance Officer's decision to approve or refuse your visa will be based on the documents you provide, and the explanations you provide for issues where the requirements have not been clearly satisfied.
If you would like our assistance, our lawyers will determine based on your circumstances what will be required to demonstrate that you do meet the Immigration Rules for this category, and prepare your application. Contact us now to start the application process.
