The Difference Between a Fiancé and Spouse Visa in the UK

Do you plan on marrying your spouse in the United Kingdom or outside of it? If you have British citizenship and are settled in the UK, you can apply for both, the fiancé visa and the spouse visa.

But which visa should you be applying for?

If you wish to marry your spouse who is not a member of the European Union (i.e., a Non-EU) in the UK, then applying for a fiancé visa is your only option. But, if you wish to tie the knot outside the UK, then your spouse must apply for a spouse visa.

The differences between visa types

A spouse visa is also known as a marriage visitor visa where the applicant isn’t allowed to switch to or from another visa type while residing in the UK. They must first return to their country of residence and apply for this visa type to re-enter as a declared spouse or civil partner. On the contrary, with a fiancé visa, the applicant has the opportunity to switch to remain as the civil partner after marriage within the UK without having to return to their hometown.

The similarities between visa types

The application process for both visa types is similar as they must both meet all the requirements stated under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules with supporting documents. The fees for a fiancé visa is the same as the spouse visa currently; i.e. £1,523.

At the Wembley Solicitors, we help break down the legal complexities of the family visas—be it for applying, extending, or switching. Our team of solicitors in Middlesex, UK, are highly qualified and well-trained to assist you in all UK immigration law matters. We also offer guidance for a work visa, student visa, and visitor visa applicants. Contact us for more information.