What constitutes proof of relationship/intention to marry for a UK immigration visa?

Question

Being disabled, I don't really have to worry so much about funds or some of the more complicated issues with getting my partner over to the UK (from the USA). But there is one thing that concerns and confuses us: Proof of relationship/intention to marry.

Would it help if we booked the marriage before applying for the visa? We have an arrival date (7th of May), we've considered every other angle we need to, I think (going crazy with that)... But I don't want us to be refused the Visa and this is one question hanging over our heads.

We're going to include letters from ourselves and whatever third parties we can that will serve to explain our relationship, but since we communicate over Skype (we've had calls going 24/7 for over four years, now), we don't have phone records.

Any... Any information (especially from experience) would be helpful. We really want to make this work. Thank you!

Answer 1

You asked if you should get a provisional booking at the Registry Office (from this I assume that your gf is seeking a fiance visa). The answer is yes, it's always a good idea, but its evidential value is close to nil since it costs £35 and anybody can get one.

You asked about how to establish that your relationship is genuine. Since part of the rules for a fiance visa is proof that you met (and that means you met person-to-person in the physical, real-world) I assume that you have met. You will have some hard evidence of this including, passport stamps, hotel and meal receipts, and a few photos together. If you have visited together on multiple occasions, get that hard evidence also. The more the better.

Also, you will have (presumably) evidence of how you met on the net. If not, you will be able to explain it in a way that makes sense to them.

They don't want to see reams and reams of emails, and it can backfire if they read something and take it the wrong way. It can also slow the whole process down if somebody has to read through piles and piles of crap. Having a huge Skype log or similar can lead to the impression that you are addicted to cybersex and the relationship is not physically subsisting or viable. Be careful.

When I was doing casework for clients seeking a fiance visa, I would send the hard evidence I listed above along with a MAX of 3 photos, and 3 emails spaced out over the length of the relationship. I would include a cover letter that explained in detail how the couple met (doing this is critically important). If the couple had progressed to intimacy, I would explain when and where that took place. It's not a requirement, but it's an abrupt end to any questions about genuine relationship. Sham marriages and forced marriages do not have intimacy beforehand.

You asked about getting evidence from third parties, possibly an attestation that the relationship is genuine. It's not appropriate. They will look at it and wonder why you thought it was necessary. It's a poor idea. If the relationship is genuine, there will be a sufficient amount of hard evidence readily available without having to rely upon third parties.

Adding...

If it's a US/UK relationship, they will not worry a lot about if the relationship is genuine or not. The approval rate for family path applicants from the USA is about 98%.