UK De Facto Visa: An Immigration Option for Unmarried Couples

The UK defacto visa is often used to describe the UK immigration route available to long-term unmarried partners who wish to live together in the United Kingdom. While the UK does not officially label this route as “de facto,” it generally refers to the unmarried partner category under family visas. This option is suitable for couples who are in a committed relationship but are not married or in a civil partnership. At Visa and Migration, we help couples understand whether this route applies to their situation and how to prepare a compliant application.

What Is Meant by UK De Facto Visa?

The UK defacto visa usually refers to permission for unmarried partners to join or remain with their British or settled partner in the UK. This route recognises relationships similar to marriage where the couple has lived together for a significant period and can prove a genuine and ongoing partnership.

Who This Route Is For

This option is suitable for couples who have chosen not to marry but have shared a life together. The UK-based partner must be a British citizen or hold indefinite leave to remain or settled status. At Visa and Migration, we assess relationship history carefully to confirm whether the UK defacto visa route is appropriate.

Relationship Requirements

Relationship evidence plays a central role in applications under this route.

Cohabitation Evidence

Applicants are generally required to show that they have lived together in a relationship similar to marriage for at least two continuous years. Evidence may include joint tenancy agreements, utility bills, bank statements, or official correspondence covering the same address. We assist clients in organising this evidence clearly and consistently.

Genuineness of the Relationship

Beyond cohabitation, the relationship must be genuine and ongoing. Personal statements, photographs, and communication records may support this requirement. At Visa and Migration, we help present a clear and credible relationship narrative.

How We Support Couples

At Visa and Migration, we provide complete support for UK defacto visa applications, including eligibility assessment, evidence preparation, application guidance, and advice on future extensions and settlement routes.

Conclusion

The UK defacto visa route offers unmarried couples a lawful way to live together in the United Kingdom when their relationship meets immigration requirements. Success depends on strong relationship evidence, financial compliance, and accurate documentation. At Visa and Migration, we support couples at every stage, helping them approach their application with confidence and work toward a stable future in the UK.