British Grandmother’s Quest to Bring Moroccan Husband to UK

Karen Aghzzaf, a 70-year-old grandmother from Castleford, England, is facing significant challenges in her efforts to bring her Moroccan husband, Brahim Aghzzaf, 46, to the UK. The couple, who connected on Facebook in July 2015 and married in November 2017, have yet to live together due to visa complications stemming from Brahim’s inability to pass the required English language test.

Their relationship began when Karen, a mother of two and grandmother of three, met Brahim online despite the considerable distance separating them—over 2,100 miles from Khemisset, Morocco. Initially, their 24-year age difference raised eyebrows, with some questioning Brahim’s intentions. However, Karen asserts that their bond is genuine, stating, “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.”

Karen’s journey to meet Brahim in person started in July 2016, when she traveled to Marrakesh, where the couple formed a strong connection. They shared a love for Spain, which had initially brought them together online. After spending time together, Brahim proposed in May 2017, and they wed at a registry office in Ouarzazate, Morocco.

Despite their marriage, the couple has not been able to live together, primarily due to Brahim’s two failed attempts at the English language test required for a spouse visa. He first attempted the test in January 2021 and was unsuccessful. A second attempt on July 18, 2021, also ended in failure, leading to their current predicament. The couple attributes these failures to Brahim’s dyslexia, a condition they have formally communicated to the UK Home Office.

Karen, now residing in Blackpool, has been advocating for an exception to be made for Brahim’s visa application, citing his dyslexia diagnosis and showing the relevant medical documentation. “We’re trying to get the Home Office to make an exception for Brahim—because of his dyslexia,” she explained. Despite these efforts, their situation remains unresolved, and they have been separated for over five years.

The emotional toll of their separation weighs heavily on both. Karen, who was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in July 2019, expresses a sense of urgency, stating, “I feel like it’s a race against time because I’m really suffering with it. I want my husband here to help me get through it.” Meanwhile, Brahim has shared his feelings of isolation and longing, saying, “I feel so lost—and so much loneliness. I really miss her and I just want to be with her.”

As they continue to navigate this challenging situation, the couple remains hopeful for a resolution that would allow them to finally live together. The Home Office has been approached for clarification on the couple’s case and any potential pathways for Brahim’s visa approval.