Both partners must be over 18 at the time of applying, must have met each other in person and must not be in a prohibited relationship for marriage

The sponsor must be either “present and settled” in the UK or have leave to remain because of refugee status or humanitarian protection. “Present and settled” means the sponsor must have British citizenship or Indefinite Leave to Remain, and either be in the UK when the application is made, or intend to return to the UK permanently once their partner’s visa is granted

The Entry Clearance Officer (the Home Office official who will assess your application) must be satisfied that the applicant and the sponsor are in a “genuine and subsisting” relationship

If you’re married or in a civil partnership, it must be considered valid by the Home Office. A marriage will be valid if it was legal in the country where it took place, and you’ll need to supply your marriage certificate. If …