Unmarried Partner Visa (10 Years Route)

Understanding the 10-Year Route for Unmarried Partners

The family visa (10-Year Route) is designed for individuals who:

• Are in a genuine and subsisting relationship of at least two years with a British citizen or settled person, but
• Do not meet all the standard requirements under the 5-year route — such as the financial threshold, immigration status, or English language requirement
• Would face unjustifiably harsh consequences or a breach of their family life rights under Article 8 ECHR if required to leave the UK

This route provides Limited Leave to Remain for 30 months, renewable, with the possibility of applying for settlement after 10 years of continuous lawful residence.

Eligibility for the Unmarried Partner Visa 

This visa is applicable for couples who are in a committed relationship. However, UKVI has defined the eligibility criteria: 

• The age of both partners must be 18 or above 
• The relationship must be subsisting and genuine 
• Both partners intend to live together in the UK 
• The partners lived together for at least 2 years in a relationship akin to a marriage 
• The applicant has the required level of English language proficiency  
• Any previous relationship of the applicant or their partner must have broken down permanently 
• Meet the financial requirement of £29000 per annum if applied after 11 April 2024 
• Meet the financial requirement £ 18600 if applied before 11 April 2024 
• The applicant must show that their partner can support them financially in the UK without accessing public funds. 

Common Challenges Faced by Applicants

We regularly support clients who face these pain points:

•  Inability to meet the £18,600 minimum income requirement
•  Lack of official immigration status or overstaying a previous visa
•  No access to adequate documentation to meet strict Home Office standards
•  Anxiety about separation from their partner and life disruption
•  Confusion about whether their relationship qualifies without a marriage or civil partnership

At Sunrise Solicitors, we understand these challenges and treat every case with care, confidentiality, and strategic legal planning.

How Sunrise Solicitors Can Help?

With years of immigration law experience, our team provides expert legal advice and end-to-end support for individuals applying under the Unmarried Partner Visa (10-Year Route). Here’s how we help:

• Detailed eligibility assessment to confirm your options under Appendix FM and Article 8
• Strategic advice where financial or status requirements are not met
• Comprehensive document preparation, including evidence of your cohabitation, relationship history, and compassionate circumstances
• Strong legal representations drafted by qualified solicitors to present your case clearly and persuasively
• Expert handling of complex cases, such as previous visa refusals, immigration breaches, or human rights claims
• Home Office communication and follow-up for stress-free progress tracking

We don’t just process applications — we build compelling legal arguments that reflect your genuine partnership and your right to remain together in the UK.