Key Points
- You do not need to own a home. Renting or living with family is acceptable.
- The property must be for your household's own use, at least in part.
- It must not become overcrowded when the applicant moves in.
- A room in a shared family home can be enough.
Rented accommodation
A tenancy in the sponsor's name is the most common situation. Check that the agreement allows another adult to live in the property. If it is silent or restrictive, ask the landlord for written consent.
Home ownership
Where the sponsor or the couple own the property, the title register or a mortgage statement normally shows the right to live there.
Living with parents or relatives
Many couples start out in a family home. This is acceptable provided the owner or tenant agrees and you will have at least one room for your exclusive use.
Overcrowding
Overcrowding is judged by the number of rooms available for sleeping and the number, ages and sex of the people living there. Living rooms can count as rooms for sleeping. Children under one are not counted and children aged one to nine count as half.
| Rooms | People permitted |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2 |
| 2 | 3 |
| 3 | 5 |
| 4 | 7.5 |
| 5 or more | 2 per room |
Evidence of accommodation
The documents depend on who owns or rents the property and who else lives there.
Official Sources
This page is general information, not legal advice. The rules and figures are set by the Home Office and can change.