If you are a Romanian or EU national in a relationship with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK, the UK Partner or Spouse visa is usually the correct immigration route to live together in the UK.
Since Brexit, EU nationality alone no longer gives an automatic right to live in the UK. Many Romanian and EU citizens must now apply under the UK family immigration rules, which are detailed, strictly applied, and costly if mistakes are made.
This guide explains how the process works, what the requirements are, and what to expect — including how biometrics are submitted in Bucharest and how visas are now issued digitally.
What Is a UK Partner or Spouse Visa?
A UK Partner (Spouse) visa allows you to:
- Live in the UK with your partner
- Work and study without restriction
- Access the NHS after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years
- Later apply for British citizenship, if eligible
This visa is granted under the UK Immigration Rules (Appendix FM) and is usually issued for 2.5 years, with an extension required before settlement.
Who Can Apply?
Genuine and Subsisting Relationship
You must be:
- Married, or
- In a civil partnership, or
- In a durable relationship equivalent to marriage
Evidence can include marriage certificates, travel history, photographs together, communication records, and other proof showing the relationship is genuine.
Financial Requirement (£29,000)
The UK-based sponsor must normally meet a minimum income requirement of £29,000 per year, or rely on qualifying cash savings.
This requirement applies even where the applicant is an EU or Romanian national. Quite often we see the UK Sponsor (normally a Romanian citizen with settled status) that has been in the same job for at least 6 months and are either employed or self employed.
English Language Requirement
Unless exempt, applicants must demonstrate basic English language ability (usually A1 level) using an approved test or recognised qualification.
Adequate Accommodation
You must show that suitable accommodation is available in the UK and that it will not be overcrowded. This is demonstrated by showing rental agreement , mortgage statements or permission for family / friends that you can stay there.
Biometrics in Romania: What to Expect
All UK Partner and Spouse visa applicants applying from Romania must attend a biometrics appointment at the VFS Global Visa Application Centre in Bucharest.
This Is NOT an Interview
Applicants are often concerned about the appointment, but it is important to understand:
- It is not an interview
- You will not be asked questions about your relationship
- No decision is made at the appointment
It is simply a data capture process.
What Happens at the Appointment?
VFS staff will:
- Take your fingerprints
- Take a digital photograph
- Confirm your identity
What Do You Need to Take?
In most cases, applicants only need:
- Their passport (the passport is now given back after the appointment and is not held by VFS). This means you do not have to return back to the VFS centre to collect your passport nor do you have to pay for the document to be sent by courier to you
- A copy of the online visa application form
- The VFS appointment confirmation letter
Supporting Documents and Uploads
At JPS Immigration Lawyers, we handle this stage for you.
We:
- Prepare your entire visa application
- Format all supporting evidence correctly
- Upload all documents to the VFS online portal before your biometrics appointment
This reduces stress, avoids errors, and ensures your application is clearly presented to the Home Office.
Visa Costs and the Immigration Health Surcharge
UK Partner and Spouse visa applications involve significant costs, including:
- Visa application fees
- The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), paid upfront
- Translation and administrative costs
- Travel expenses
The Immigration Health Surcharge alone can amount to several thousand pounds, depending on the visa length.
⚠️ These fees are non-refundable if the application is refused, which is why it is essential to get the application right the first time.
What Happens If Your Visa Is Granted? (Important 2026 Update)
The way UK visas are issued has changed.
If your application is successful, you will not receive a visa sticker or vignette in your passport.
Instead, you will be issued with an eVisa (electronic visa).
What Is an eVisa?
An eVisa is a digital record of your identity and immigration permission in the UK. It shows:
- Your visa type
- The length of your permission
- Any conditions attached to your stay
Your immigration status is held electronically by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
How Do You Access Your eVisa?
Once your visa is issued:
- You can create a UKVI online account
- You will be able to view and prove your status digitally
- You can share your status online with employers, landlords, and airlines
You can only create your UKVI account after the visa has been granted.
Travelling to the UK
When travelling:
- Your passport is checked electronically
- Airlines and border officials verify your status using your eVisa
- There is no Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) to collect
Your permission to enter and live in the UK exists entirely in digital form.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Partner and Spouse visas are often refused due to:
- Financial evidence not meeting Home Office rules
- Incorrect or missing documents
- Weak relationship evidence
- Errors in the application form
Many refusals are avoidable with proper legal preparation.
How JPS Immigration Can Help
At JPS Immigration, we assist Romanian and EU nationals with:
- Eligibility assessments
- Financial requirement calculations
- Full preparation of Partner and Spouse visa applications
- Uploading and managing documents for VFS
- Ensuring applications are made correctly, clearly, and from the right country
Our focus is on avoiding refusals, wasted fees, and unnecessary separation.
eVisa – Frequently Asked Questions
What is an eVisa UK?
An eVisa is a digital record of your UK immigration status. It replaces physical visa stickers and Biometric Residence Permits.
Do I still get a visa in my passport?
No. UK Partner and Spouse visas are now issued digitally only.
How do I prove my immigration status?
You prove your status online through your UKVI account, using a share code.
When can I create a UKVI account?
You can create your UKVI account after your visa has been issued.
Can I travel without a physical visa?
Yes. Airlines and UK border officials check your status electronically using your passport and eVisa.
Ready to Apply for a UK Partner or Spouse Visa?
If you are applying from Romania and want to join your partner in the UK, professional legal advice can make the difference between success and refusal.
Contact JPS Immigration today via www.jpsimmigration.com Getting it right the first time can save you time, money, and stress.
