SPOUSE VISA UK

Are you planning to live in the UK with your partner? The UK Spouse Visa allows eligible partners to live, work, and eventually settle in the UK.

The UK Spouse Visa permits non-UK nationals to join their British or settled partner in the UK. Whether you’re married, in a civil partnership, engaged, or in a long-term relationship, this visa offers a path to live together legally in the UK.

Initially granted for 33 months if applying from outside the UK (or 30 months inside), the visa can be extended. After living together for 5 or 10 years, depending on your situation, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Am I Eligible to Apply?

To qualify, both the applicant and the sponsor must be at least 18 years old. In addition, the sponsor must meet one of the following:

  • Be a British or Irish citizen
  • Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status

  • Have pre-settled status (residing in the UK before 1 January 2021)

  • Be in the UK on a Turkish Businessperson or Worker visa

  • Hold refugee or humanitarian protection status

  • Be granted leave as a stateless person

You must be married, in a civil partnership, or engaged to marry within six months of arrival.

What Criteria Must Be Met for a Successful Application?

Your application must demonstrate:

  • A genuine and ongoing relationship
  • Meeting the minimum income threshold (currently £29,000 per year)
  • Proof of suitable accommodation
  • Passing an approved English language test

Meeting health and character requirements, including a tuberculosis test in some cases

How Do I Show My Relationship Is Genuine?

Proving your relationship is real and ongoing involves submitting multiple pieces of evidence. This may include:

  • Joint bills, bank accounts, or tenancy agreements
  • Photos of you together
  • Chat or call logs
  • Proof of shared parenting responsibilities
  • Travel history as a couple

What Are the Financial Requirements?

The sponsor typically must earn at least £29,000 annually before tax. Income can come from employment, self-employment, pensions, or certain benefits. If income is lower, cash savings may help bridge the gap.

For partners already in the UK applying to extend their visa, the applicant’s income can also be counted.

In cases where the sponsor receives eligible public funds, they must prove they can financially support their partner without relying on additional benefits.

Do I Need to Pass an English Language Test?

Yes—unless you are exempt. You must show that you can speak and understand English at a minimum A1 level when applying for your first spouse visa.

You may be exempt if:

  • You’re from a majority English-speaking country
  • You’re over 65
  • You have a UK degree or a qualification taught in English

What About Housing? What Counts as “Adequate Accommodation”?

Applicants must show that they’ll live in a home that meets UK living standards. This means:

  • No overcrowding
  • Access to necessary facilities (kitchen, bathroom, etc.)
  • Enough rooms for everyone, based on family size and age

For example, a couple can share a room, and children under 10 may share with each other or their parents depending on their ages and gender.

What Documents Do I Need?

Each case is unique, but commonly required documents include:

  • A valid marriage or civil partnership certificate
  • Current and valid passports
  • Proof of financial eligibility
  • Evidence of a genuine relationship
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • Documents showing adequate accommodation

All documents must be in the correct format as outlined by UK immigration rules.

What Are the Costs Involved?

  • From outside the UK: £1,928
  • From within the UK: £1,321
  • Plus: Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £1,035 per year
  • Other potential costs: translations, English tests, TB tests (if required), and optional priority service

Other optional costs may include:

  • English language test
  • Tuberculosis test
  • Document translation
  • Priority or premium services

What Happens After I Apply?

Once the application is submitted online:

  • Applicants outside the UK will attend a biometric appointment and submit supporting documents at a visa centre
  • Applicants inside the UK follow a similar process through UKVCAS
  • A decision is usually made within 12 weeks, though faster options may be available

If approved, you’ll be informed via an email

Can I Extend My Visa?

Yes! You can apply to extend your spouse visa for another 30 months, as long as your current visa hasn’t expired. You’ll need to continue meeting the same requirements.

When Can I Apply for Settlement?

You may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years (standard route) or 10 years (longer route or under certain exceptions). ILR allows you to remain in the UK permanently and apply for citizenship later.

What If My Application Is Refused?

You’ll be notified of the reasons for refusal and may have the right to appeal. It’s important to act within the given timeframe. A well-prepared appeal with professional help can significantly improve your chances of success.

How can an Immigration Solicitor Help?

A specialist immigration solicitor can:

  • Assess your eligibility and advise on the best visa route
  • Prepare a customised document checklist based on your situation
  • Complete and submit your application correctly
  • Provide country-specific guidance if needed
  • Represent you during appeals or communication with the Home Office

Even if you have previously overstayed or don’t meet all the requirements, a good lawyer can explore alternative legal grounds for a strong application.

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