Marrying an immigrant in the UK involves various costs, both financial and procedural. These costs can be divided into several categories: visa application fees, legal fees, medical examinations, translation services, and additional costs. This article will explore each of these areas to provide a detailed understanding of the financial implications involved in marrying an immigrant in the UK.
Visa Application Fees
The primary cost associated with marrying an immigrant in the UK is the visa application fee. The type of visa required depends on the immigrant’s current status and location.
Fiancé(e) or Proposed Civil Partner Visa
If your partner is outside the UK and you plan to marry or enter into a civil partnership within six months of their arrival, they will need a Fiancé(e) or Proposed Civil Partner Visa. The application fee for this visa is £1,538 as of 2024.
Spouse or Civil Partner Visa
If you are already married or in a civil partnership, or plan to marry within six months, your partner will need a Spouse or Civil Partner Visa. The application fee for this visa is £1,538 if applied from outside the UK, and £1,048 if applied from within the UK.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After living in the UK for a certain period, usually five years, your spouse may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). The application fee for ILR is £2,404.
Citizenship Application
After obtaining ILR, your spouse may apply for British citizenship. The fee for naturalisation as a British citizen is £1,330.
Legal Fees
Navigating the immigration process can be complex, and many couples choose to hire an immigration lawyer to assist with the application process. Legal fees can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s expertise.
Initial Consultation
An initial consultation with an immigration lawyer typically costs between £100 and £300. During this consultation, the lawyer will assess your case and provide advice on the best course of action.
Application Assistance
For assistance with completing and submitting a visa application, legal fees can range from £800 to £3,000, depending on the complexity of the case.
Appeals and Additional Services
If your application is denied and you need to appeal the decision, legal fees can increase significantly. The cost of an appeal can range from £1,500 to £4,000 or more, depending on the case’s complexity and the level of representation required.
see also: what is the process of marrying an immigrant?
Medical Examinations
As part of the visa application process, your spouse may need to undergo a medical examination to ensure they do not have any conditions that could pose a public health risk. The cost of a medical examination can vary depending on the country in which it is conducted but typically ranges from £200 to £400.
Translation Services
If any of your spouse’s documents are not in English, you will need to have them translated by a certified translator. The cost of translation services can vary, but you can expect to pay around £50 to £100 per page of translated text.
Additional Costs
There are several additional costs that you may need to consider when marrying an immigrant in the UK.
English Language Test
Your spouse will need to demonstrate their knowledge of the English language as part of the visa application process. This usually involves taking an approved English language test, such as the IELTS Life Skills test, which costs around £150.
Document Certification
You may need to have certain documents, such as your marriage certificate, certified by a solicitor. The cost of document certification is typically around £10 to £50 per document.
Travel Costs
If your spouse needs to travel to the UK to attend an interview or provide biometric information, you will need to consider the cost of flights and accommodation. Travel costs can vary significantly depending on the distance and duration of the stay.
NHS Surcharge
Your spouse will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. The IHS gives them access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. The cost of the IHS is £624 per year for the duration of the visa.
Summary of Costs
To provide a clearer picture of the total costs involved in marrying an immigrant in the UK, here is a summary of the main expenses:
Visa Application Fees
Fiancé(e) or Proposed Civil Partner Visa: £1,538
Spouse or Civil Partner Visa (outside UK): £1,538
Spouse or Civil Partner Visa (inside UK): £1,048
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): £2,404
Citizenship Application: £1,330
Legal Fees
Initial Consultation: £100 – £300
Application Assistance: £800 – £3,000
Appeals and Additional Services: £1,500 – £4,000
Medical Examinations
Medical Examination: £200 – £400
Translation Services
Translation Services: £50 – £100 per page
Additional Costs
English Language Test: £150
Document Certification: £10 – £50 per document
Travel Costs: Varies
NHS Surcharge: £624 per year
Total Estimated Costs
Based on the information provided, the total cost of marrying an immigrant in the UK can range from approximately £4,000 to £12,000 or more, depending on various factors such as legal fees, the number of documents to be translated, and additional services required.
Conclusion
Marrying an immigrant in the UK involves several financial considerations, from visa application fees to legal services and additional costs. It is essential to be aware of these expenses and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and successful process. Consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can provide valuable guidance and support, helping you navigate the complexities of the immigration system and achieve your goal of being together in the UK.
