UK Unmarried Partner visa Document Checklist

For the UK Unmarried Partner Visa, you must submit key documents including proof of identity, income, relationship, accommodation, and English proficiency. Missing or incorrect documents can cause delays or even a visa refusal.

This latest 2025 guide provides a complete checklist of all the required evidence and documents for your UK Unmarried Partner visa application.

If you're unsure about any documents or need assistance with your UK Unmarried Partner visa, contact Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 or complete our enquiry form.

Table of Contents

What Is a UK Unmarried Partner Visa?

Couples in a long-term, genuine relationship for two years or more can apply for a UK Unmarried Partner visa if one partner is a British citizen or settled in the UK.

Key benefits:

• Work full-time in any role without restrictions.
• Initial visa duration: 30 months (in the UK) or 33 months (from abroad).
• Extendable for another 30 months.
• Eligible for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after five years.
• Pathway to British citizenship once settled.

Who Is Eligible for a UK Unmarried Partner Visa?

To qualify, both you and your partner must be 18 or above and have been in a genuine, continuing relationship for a minimum of two years.

Your UK-based partner (sponsor) must either:

• be a British or Irish citizen
• have indefinite leave to remain (ILR)
• have a settled status
• have proof of permanent residence
• have a protection status
• have permission to stay as a refugee
• have permission to stay as a stateless person

What Documents Are Required for a UK Unmarried Partner Visa?

To apply for a UK Unmarried Partner visa in 2025, you must submit the documents outlined in the checklist below.

Documents you will need to provide:

• Your valid passport.
• Your partner's passport.
• Your partner's proof of UK immigration status.
• Proof of a genuine and subsisting relationship for at least two years.
• Evidence of meeting the financial requirement.
• Proof of adequate accommodation in the UK.
• Evidence of meeting English language requirements.
• Photographs and communication records showing frequent contact.
• Details of any criminal convictions.
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results, if applicable.
• Additional documents, depending on your circumstances.

Identity and Immigration Documents for a UK Unmarried Partner Visa

Applicants for a UK Unmarried Partner visa must provide personal ID and immigration documents, including:

• Current passport or travel document.
• Copies of previous passports showing visas and entry stamps.
• Details of prior UK immigration applications.
• Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), if available.
• eVisa or online immigration records.
• Criminal convictions information.

UK Partner (Sponsor) Documents Required for Unmarried Partner Visa

Your UK-based partner (sponsor) must show they are a British citizen or hold settled status, including:

• A valid passport.
• Proof of UK immigration status.
• Evidence of meeting financial requirements (payslips, bank statements).
• Proof of accommodation (rental or mortgage documents).
• A signed sponsorship declaration.

Documents to Prove a Genuine Relationship for a UK Unmarried Partner Visa

To demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and ongoing, you may need to provide:

• Photos of you together over time.
• Communication records, such as messages, emails, or call logs.
• Joint tenancy agreements or mortgage documents.
• Utility bills show both names.
• Joint bank statements.
• Travel records confirming you've met in person.
• Letters, cards, or other personal correspondence.
• Proof of children, if applicable, like birth certificates.
• Statements from family or friends verifying your relationship.

Documents to Show You Meet Financial Requirements for a UK Visa

When applying for a UK Unmarried Partner visa, you and your partner usually need to demonstrate a combined annual gross income of at least £29,000. Only certain income sources are accepted, including:

• Employment or self-employment income
• Pensions from either partner
• Maternity allowances or bereavement benefits received by the UK-based partner
• Any other declared income or savings

Your UK partner (sponsor) must prove they can financially support you. They can do this by providing relevant financial documents, including:

Proof of Income

To meet the minimum income threshold of £29,000 per year, your sponsor may submit:

• Payslips from the past six months
• Employer's letter confirming employment and salary
• Bank statements reflecting income deposits

Self-Employment Documents

If the sponsor is self-employed, the following documents are required:

• Tax returns (SA302 or equivalent)
• Business accounts
• Bank statements supporting income

Providing accurate financial evidence ensures your Unmarried Partner visa application meets UKVI requirements and avoids delays or refusals.

Documents to Prove Adequate Accommodation for Unmarried Partner Visa

Applicants must show suitable accommodation without relying on public funds. Acceptable proof:

• Rental agreement, mortgage, or property deed.
• Letter from landlord confirming residency.
• Utility bills at the property address.
• Accommodation inspection report, if required.

Evidence That You Meet the English Language Requirement

Unless you qualify for an exemption, you must demonstrate English language proficiency when applying for a UK Unmarried Partner visa.

You can satisfy the English language requirement by:

• Passing a UKVI-approved English test at or above the A1 CEFR level.
• Being a citizen of a majority English-speaking country.
• Holding a recognised academic qualification, such as a bachelor's, master's, or PhD degree.

Providing proper English language evidence is essential to ensure your Unmarried Partner visa application meets UKVI requirements and avoids delays.

Tuberculosis (TB) Test for UK Unmarried Partner Visa

A TB test is required for applicants for the UK Unmarried Partner visa who plan to stay in the UK for more than six months and have spent six months or more in a country where TB testing is mandatory, including any period within the six months preceding their application.

If you are from a country that requires a TB test, such as Pakistan, India, or Bangladesh, you must obtain the TB test from a UKVI-approved clinic.

How Wembley Solicitors Can Help

If you're unsure about any of the UK Unmarried Partner visa requirements, professional immigration advice can help you navigate the process and avoid costly errors.

Our UK immigration solicitors in London provide step-by-step support, from preparing documents to submitting your application successfully.

If you need advice or help with a UK Unmarried Partner visa, call Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 or complete the enquiry form online.