Definitive Guide To Securing A UK Fiancee Visa

The Philippines is among the Asian countries known for its majestic tourist destinations and low cost of living that continues to attract UK travellers and backpackers. Some of them return to the country for tourism purposes while others come back to be with their loved ones. Yet, in the long run, distance becomes a major enemy for transnational couples. Thus, to address this issue, many apply for a UK fiancee visa.
The UK fiancee visa does not only permit foreign entry, but also, allows soon-to-be married partners to formalize and legalize their relationship.
According to the UK Border Agency, a proposed civil partner is defined as an individual that has the intention to legalize his or her partnership with another.
On the other hand, a sponsor is described as the individual whom the applicant wants to legalize his or her civil partnership.
Step by step guide in applying for a UK fiancee visa
Located in McKinley Hill, Taguig, the UK embassy facilitates the processing of UK visa applications. Below are the easy steps for obtaining a UK fiancee visa:
Step 1 – Determine the eligibility requirements. To be categorized as a proposed civil partner, the following qualifications should be met:

1. There is a concrete plan to get married or register a civil partnership within a considerable amount of time
2. The couple has intentions to live together after the marriage or registration of civil partnership
3. The couple has met personally
4. There are sufficient financial resources to cover the applicant’s expenses without relying to public funds. The same provision applies to candidates who will be bringing their dependents.
5. Both the sponsor and civil partner are not below 21 years old.

Step 2 – Once the eligibility requirements are met, gather the following documents:

1. Settlement Form (VAF4 OCT 2007)
2. Visa fees
3. Colored picture (45mm X 35mm)
4. Copies of the sponsor’s passports. Stamped pages as well as those which contain the information details should be submitted
5. Evidence of accommodation capabilities. Rent books, contracts with landlords or property description and other mortgage-related evidences should be presented
6. Proofs of sufficient financial resources. Bank statements within the last six months are examples of these evidences. Likewise, employment records are also accepted.
7. Sponsor’s support letters
8. Evidence showing that the applicant and sponsor are in constant communication. These may include phone bills, emails and personal letters
9. Birth certificate printed on NSO security paper
10. Evidence of UK residency. However, this does not apply to British nationals
11. Records showing termination of marriage or evidence showing that annulment hearings are taking place (for the sponsor)
12. NSO-certified birth certificate for applicants that have children on previous relationships or marriage
13. Other supporting documents

Step 3 – Pay the application fee. Currently, the fee is pegged at P47, 656. Payment proofs are needed in visa processing. There are several ways to pay the application charges:

1. Union Bank (Vito Cruz ext. Pasong Tamo, Makati City) – Bring copies of the passport’s data page.
2. Union Bank branches –A P150 service charge will be asked. Similarly, provide copies of the passport’s data page
3. Manager’s Cheque payable to the British Embassy

Just a reminder, bank receipts are only valid for ten (10) days. File the application immediately after addressing all the fees.
Step 4 – Schedule an appointment. There are three ways to secure an appointment slot.

1. Online application – Simply go to this link : https://www.vfs.firm.in/pl-apptsystem/appscheduling/appwelcome.aspx
2. Through the call center: Call the following number
1. For PLDT/ Smart Subscriber - 1-909-885-VISA (8472)
2. Bayantel - 1-903-VISAUK or 1-903-847285
3. Walk-in submission – But of course, this process is more tedious compared to the two.

Step 5 – Submit the application. During the submission, biometric information will be collected as well. Relatively, those who do not have prior appointment need to wait longer.
Step 6 – Wait for the decision. Visa decisions may take 2 -120 days. If approved, one can fly to UK.