To apply for a UK spouse, partner, or fiancé(e) visa, one of the most important criteria you must meet is proving that your relationship is genuine and subsisting. This requirement ensures your eligibility under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules is met.
💑 What Does “Genuine and Subsisting” Mean?
UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) must be satisfied that your relationship is:
- Real – not a marriage of convenience or sham relationship and demonstrating a genuine and subsisting relationship
- Ongoing – the relationship is continuing at the time of application
- Committed – you intend to live together permanently in the UK
This applies whether you are married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term unmarried relationship.
📂 What Evidence Should You Provide?
You will need to show a combination of documentary and personal evidence to confirm a genuine and subsisting relationship, including:
- Photos together over time
- Travel records showing visits to each other
- Messages or call logs (WhatsApp, Messenger, etc.)
- Joint bank statements or bills (if living together)
- Tenancy agreements, flight bookings, hotel stays
- Statements from friends or family
For unmarried partners, you must also prove you’ve lived together in a relationship “akin to marriage” for at least 2 years.
📋 Common Reasons for Refusal
UKVI may refuse your application if:
- Evidence is inconsistent or insufficient to demonstrate a genuine and subsisting relationship
- You cannot show recent contact or cohabitation
- The relationship appears one-sided or transactional
- You have not met in person (for fiancé(e) applications)
💡 Expert Tip
Don’t rely on just one form of evidence. A strong application combines several types of proof across a sustained time period. The longer and more consistent your evidence, the better in proving a genuine and subsisting relationship.
📞 Need Help with a UK Partner Visa?
At Thai Visa Express, we have over 19 years of experience helping clients prove relationship requirements under UK immigration law. Our service includes:
- Review of your evidence
- Advice on strengthening your case
- Full application preparation and submission
Contact us today for expert advice on UK partner visas.
