Clarification for a Spousal Visa

[bspin12]

Hi,

I am getting conflicting information, and I have been told that inorder for a Spouse visa to be successful, aside from the £18600 stipuation, there also has to be documentary evidence of knowing each other for at least 2 years.

Is this 2 years of knowing each other a real requirement?

If so, what type of evidence would suffice to prove that there has been at least a relationship going back 2 years?

Thanks,

[vinny]

Is this 2 years of knowing each other a real requirement?

The 2 years relationship requirement is only necessary for unmarried partners.

It's not required for spouse. Marriage certificate required.

[avjones]

There isn't a distinction any more for spouse / unmarried partner visa. They both come under "partner" visa and the visa itself doesn't say which catagory the person falls into. There is a definition of "partner" within the Immigration Rules Appendix FM, and it means either (1) a lawful marriage or (2) living together in a relationship like marriage for 2 or more years.

So if you are married, you don't need to prove you've been living together for 2 years. If you prove you have been living together for 2 years, you don't need to prove you are married.