If you’re a Nigerian citizen looking to join your spouse in the UK under the dependent visa category, proving the authenticity of your relationship is one of the most crucial parts of your application. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires strong evidence that your marriage or partnership is genuine, ongoing, and not entered into solely for immigration purposes.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain how to prove your relationship for a UK spouse visa, the types of documents that work best, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
What Is a UK Spouse (Dependent) Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa allows a non-UK partner to live in the UK with their British or settled spouse. This visa falls under the Family Visa route and is also referred to as a Dependent Visa when one partner is already in the UK on a work or study visa.
Why Proof of Relationship Matters
UKVI is highly vigilant when reviewing relationship claims. Fraudulent or arranged marriages can lead to visa refusal or even bans. To avoid this, applicants must submit convincing, well-documented proof that the relationship is:
- Genuine and subsisting
- Legally recognized
- Built on long-term commitment
Accepted Relationship Types
You can apply as a:
- Married couple (legally married)
- Civil partners (legally registered partnerships)
- Unmarried partners (cohabiting for at least 2 years)
Documents to Prove a Genuine Relationship
Here’s a list of the most reliable documents you should include in your application:
1. Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate
- Must be legally valid in the country it was issued
- Provide English translation if not in English
2. Photos Together
- Include photos over a long period
- At events, with family, or on holidays
3. Communication Evidence
- Chat logs (WhatsApp, Messenger, etc.)
- Call records and video call screenshots
- Emails and letters
Spread this over months or years to show consistency
4. Travel and Visa Stamps
- Boarding passes and passport stamps showing visits
- Hotel bookings made together
5. Joint Financial Commitments
- Joint bank accounts
- Utility bills with both names
- Rental agreements or mortgages
6. Affidavits or Support Letters
- From friends and family vouching for your relationship
- Must include full names, contact details, and relationship to you
7. Children’s Birth Certificates (if applicable)
- If you have children together, include birth certificates showing both parents’ names
Tips for a Strong Application
- Be honest and consistent across all forms and documents
- Avoid submitting staged or recent-only evidence
- Organize documents chronologically with clear labels
- Don’t exaggerate or submit fake documents
If UKVI detects fraud, your application will likely be refused and future applications may be affected.
Common Reasons for Relationship Proof Rejection
- No evidence of living together
- Limited or inconsistent communication logs
- Contradictory statements in interviews or forms
- Missing or forged documents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I apply without a marriage certificate?
If you’re unmarried but have lived together for at least 2 years, you may still qualify as an “unmarried partner,” but you’ll need extra proof of cohabitation.
Q2: Are chat screenshots enough?
Not on their own. You should include a variety of documents to show different aspects of the relationship.
Q3: Should I include wedding pictures?
Yes. Wedding and post-wedding photos help establish the timeline of your relationship.
Q4: What if we met online?
You must show how the relationship progressed beyond online communication, such as meeting in person, traveling together, and making future plans.
Q5: How many months of communication logs should I submit?
At least 6–12 months, though longer periods can strengthen your application.
Conclusion: Build a Convincing Case for Your UK Dependent Visa
Proving your relationship is more than just submitting a marriage certificate. The UK Home Office wants to see a living, breathing connection over time. By gathering the right mix of documents, staying truthful, and demonstrating a clear and consistent story, you can significantly increase your chances of getting your UK spouse visa approved.
Start preparing your relationship evidence early. The stronger your case, the smoother your visa journey will be.