70-Year-Old Grandmother Fights for Spouse Visa for Moroccan Husband

A British grandmother, Karen Aghzzaf, 70, is advocating for her Moroccan husband, Brahim Aghzzaf, 46, to be allowed to move to the UK after his spouse visa application was denied twice. The couple, who met on Facebook in July 2015, have faced significant hurdles, primarily due to Brahim’s challenges in passing the required English language test.

Karen resides in Blackpool, Lancashire, while Brahim is in Khemisset, Morocco, leaving the couple separated by over 2,100 miles. They married in November 2017 after a two-year relationship, but their dream of living together remains unfulfilled due to visa complications.

Love Story Marred by Bureaucracy

Initially connecting via Facebook, Karen and Brahim hit it off over their shared interests. Despite their 24-year age difference, which raised eyebrows among friends and family, the couple’s bond deepened. Karen recalled their first face-to-face meeting in Marrakesh in July 2016, describing it as an adventure filled with kindness and thoughtfulness.

The couple began the process of securing a spouse visa after their marriage, expecting fewer obstacles. However, Brahim’s dyslexia has played a significant role in their troubles. His struggles with the English language test have resulted in two failures, one on January 17, 2021, and another on July 18, 2021. This has prevented the Home Office from granting him the necessary visa.

Karen expressed her determination to have her husband by her side, emphasizing, “I’m not stupid – Brahim wants to work, he wants to take care of me, and I deserve to have my husband living with me.” She has appealed to the Home Office for an exception based on Brahim’s dyslexia, supported by medical documentation.

A Race Against Time

The emotional toll of their separation is evident. Karen, who has been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, shared her fears about the future. “I feel like it’s a race against time because I’m really suffering with it,” she stated. She wishes for Brahim’s presence to help her navigate her health challenges.

Brahim echoed her sentiments, expressing feelings of loneliness and longing. “I feel so lost – and so much loneliness,” he said. “I really miss her and I just want to be with her.” Their separation has stretched to over five years, creating immense strain on both individuals.

Despite the challenges, Karen remains hopeful. She and Brahim are committed to overcoming the bureaucratic hurdles that have kept them apart. As they continue to navigate the complexities of the immigration system, their story serves as a poignant reminder of the trials faced by couples separated by borders.

The Home Office has been approached for comment regarding the couple’s situation, but as of now, the couple’s future together remains uncertain.