The UK offers specific visa routes for individuals who wish to join their civil partner or spouse who is a British citizen or has settled status. This article provides a detailed guide to applying for the UK Civil Partnership Visa and extending a Spouse Visa, outlining the requirements, processes, and essential considerations for applicants.

What is the UK Civil Partnership Visa?
The UK Civil Partnership Visa allows non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals to join their civil partner in the UK. This visa is designed for individuals in a legally recognized civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK. The requirements for the Civil Partnership Visa are similar to those for the Spouse Visa and include:

Genuine Relationship: Applicants must provide proof of their civil partnership and demonstrate that their relationship is genuine and ongoing.
Financial Requirements: The sponsoring partner must meet a minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year. This threshold increases with the addition of dependent children: £22,400 for one child, plus £2,400 for each additional child.
English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate their English language proficiency by passing an approved test at level A1 or higher or by
holding a degree taught in English.
Accommodation: There must be adequate accommodation for the applicant and their dependents, ensuring no reliance on public funds.
Application Process for the Civil Partnership Visa
Online Application: The process starts with completing an online application form on the UK government website. Applicants need to create an account, fill out the form, and pay the visa fee.

Document Submission: Applicants must submit several documents, including:
Valid passport

Proof of civil partnership (civil partnership certificate)
Proof of meeting the financial requirement (bank statements, payslips, etc.)
English language test certificate or degree certificate
Evidence of adequate accommodation (rental agreement, property ownership documents)

Biometric Appointment: Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Decision: After submitting the application and attending the biometric appointment, applicants must wait for a decision. Processing times vary but typically take around 12 weeks.

Extending the Spouse Visa
The initial spouse visa or civil partnership visa is generally granted for 33 months if applied for outside the UK or 30 months if applied for within the UK. As the expiry date approaches, applicants must apply for an extension to continue living in the UK.

Requirements for Spouse Visa Extension
To extend the spouse visa or civil partnership visa, applicants must meet similar requirements as the initial application:

Genuine Relationship: The relationship must continue to be genuine and ongoing.
Financial Requirements: The sponsoring partner must still meet the minimum income threshold.

English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at level A2 or higher.
Accommodation: There must still be adequate accommodation for the applicant and their dependents.

Extension Application Process
Online Application: Complete the extension application online. Fill out the form and pay the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Document Submission: Submit updated documents similar to those required for the initial application.

Biometric Appointment: Attend another biometric appointment for the extension.
Decision: The processing time for the extension is usually within 8 weeks.
Pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After living in the UK for five years on a spouse or civil partnership visa, applicants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). ILR allows individuals to live in the UK without time restrictions and is a step towards British citizenship.

Requirements for ILR
Continuous Residence: Applicants must have lived in the UK continuously for five years on a spouse or civil partnership visa.
Life in the UK Test: Pass the Life in the UK Test, which assesses knowledge of British customs, history, and culture.
English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English proficiency at level B1 or higher.

Conclusion
Navigating the UK Civil Partnership Visa and Spouse Visa Extension processes can be complex, but understanding the requirements and steps involved can make the journey smoother. From the initial application to the path towards Indefinite Leave to Remain, careful preparation and timely submission of necessary documents are crucial. By meeting the criteria and adhering to the process, couples can look forward to building their lives together in the UK, ensuring a secure and prosperous future.

https://ukimmigrationsolicitors.co.uk/spouse-visa-uk/civil-partnership-visa/