we are in the process of arranging to relocate to the UK with my partner being on a settlement visa.

If we wish to get married once we are there and settled do we have to specifically apply for a fiance visa or can we get a "normal" setttlement visa and simply get married as and when we wish once we are in the UK?

Thanks

If you are relocating to the UK with your partner as an "unmarried partner", i.e. you can provide evidence of cohabitation for at least 2 years in a relationship akin to marriage, then she will be given a settlement visa for 27 months and can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (subject to the other conditions) after 2 years in the UK. If you choose to get married within that period you are at liberty to do so.

If the criteria for "unmarried partner" are not fulfilled, then the only visa enabling travel to the UK with a view to settlement is the fiance visa which is valid for 6 months, during which time the marriage must take place to enable a further application for Leave to Remain as a spouse.

thanks

just the info we needed

If the criteria for "unmarried partner" are not fulfilled, then the only visa enabling travel to the UK with a view to settlement is the fiance visa which is valid for 6 months, during which time the marriage must take place to enable a further application for Leave to Remain as a spouse.

Or they could marry in Thailand and apply for settlement as a spouse; valid for 27 months and cutting out the need for an FLR application and it's fee.