Partner and Dependent Solicitors with offices across Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset
If your partner, fiancé(e), spouse or parent is a UK national, you may be eligible to apply for a partner or dependent visa. These routes allow individuals to live in the UK for an extended period based on their family relationships.
The Home Office has strict rules for these applications, and providing the correct supporting evidence is essential for a successful outcome.
What evidence is required for a Partner or Dependent visa?
The exact requirements depend on your relationship and circumstances, but you will usually need to provide:
- Personal information for everyone applying
- Evidence of your relationship
- Proof that you meet the English language requirement
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
- Valid identity documents
- Proof that you meet the financial requirement
The Home Office will refuse applications that are missing documents or fail to meet the specified criteria. Ensuring you understand what is required, and presenting it clearly, is vital.
What happens if your application is successful?
If your visa is granted, you will receive an eVisa confirming your right to live in the UK. Partner and dependent visa holders can usually:
- Work in the UK
- Study if they choose
- Live in the UK for an initial period of 2 years and 9 months
You may extend your visa at the end of this period if you continue to meet the requirements.
After 5 years in the UK, you may be eligible apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which removes the need for future visas. The government is currently reviewing ILR rules, and changes may be introduced at short notice.
Fiancé(e) visas
If you plan to come to the UK to marry or enter a civil partnership with a UK national, you may wish to apply for a fiancé(e) visa.
A fiancé(e) visa:
- Is valid for 6 months
- Allows you to come to the UK and hold your ceremony
- Does not allow you to work or study
- Must be followed by a partner visa application, if you wish to remain after marriage
If you do not meet the requirements
If you cannot meet the requirements for a partner or dependent visa, you may still be eligible for a visitor visa for short-term stays in the UK.
How Trethowans can help
Our Immigration experts can provide full support with all stages of partner or dependent visa applications, including:
- Assessing eligibility and identifying the correct visa route
- Explaining the evidence required for your application
- Preparing and reviewing application forms and cover letters
- Advising on financial requirements and acceptable documents
- Supporting clients who have previously had a visa refused
- Explaining your visa conditions once granted
- Guiding you through extensions and ILR applications
We aim to make a complex and personal process as straightforward and stress‑free as possible.
Why choose Trethowans for Partner and Dependent visa applications?
We offer:
- Clear, practical advice tailored to your relationship and circumstances
- Support with gathering the right evidence
- A structured, step‑by‑step approach
- Honest guidance on potential risks or issues
- Long‑term immigration planning, including ILR and citizenship
Your family’s stability and security are our priority.
More about Partner and Dependent visas
These applications are detailed and can be affected by changes in Government policy. Understanding the requirements early is essential, especially if you plan to move, marry or change employment.
You may also find our pages on Graduate visas, Skilled worker visas, Partner visas, and British Citizenship and Indefinite Leave to Remain helpful.
Contact Trethowans Partner Visa solicitors today
For expert advice on Partner and Dependent visa applications, contact our team of experienced immigration solicitors on 0800 2800 421.
