A 70-year-old grandmother, Karen Aghzzaf, from Castleford, Yorkshire, found love with a 46-year-old Moroccan man named Brahim whom she met on Facebook in July 2015. Despite the 24-year age gap and Brahim’s residence in Khemisset, Morocco, the couple quickly developed a strong connection. They tied the knot in November 2017, but their plans to live together in the UK have been hindered as Brahim failed the English language test required for a spouse visa, citing his dyslexia as the primary challenge.
Karen, now residing in Blackpool, Lancashire, expressed her frustration at the visa hurdles, emphasizing Brahim’s desire to work and care for her. She highlighted the difficulties they faced in getting married and the ongoing struggles with visa applications. Despite contemplating a move to Morocco, Karen finds it challenging to leave her home country.
Their relationship blossomed over shared interests, including a love for Spain, leading to multiple visits and eventually a marriage in Morocco. However, the visa setbacks have kept them apart, with Brahim expressing his longing to be reunited with Karen and start a life together in the UK. Karen, diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in 2019, sees Brahim’s presence as crucial for support during her health challenges.
With Brahim’s failed attempts at the English test, Karen has appealed to the Home Office, citing his dyslexia diagnosis in hopes of securing the visa. The couple, after eight years of marriage, remain hopeful for a resolution that would allow them to finally live together. Brahim expressed his deep yearning for Karen’s companionship, emphasizing the emotional toll of their prolonged separation.
The Home Office has not yet provided a comment on the situation.
