1. What is a UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa (or Partner Visa) allows non-UK citizens to join their British or UK-settled spouse or partner in the UK for an extended period. It is a pathway to live and work in the UK and can eventually lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British citizenship.
2. Key Eligibility Requirements for the UK Spouse Visa
To qualify for a UK Spouse Visa, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Relationship Requirement: You must be legally married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK. Proof of a genuine, ongoing relationship is essential.
- Minimum Age: Both you and your spouse must be at least 18 years old.
- Financial Requirement: Demonstrate an income of at least £18,600 annually, higher if you have children.
- Accommodation Requirement: Proof of adequate accommodation in the UK where you and your spouse will live.
- English Language Proficiency: Meet the English language requirement through a test or recognized qualification.
3. Financial Requirement for a UK Spouse Visa
The UK government requires proof of sufficient income to support yourself without public funds. The minimum income requirements are:
- £18,600 per year for the applicant and their spouse.
- Additional £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each subsequent child.
Proof of income can come from employment, self-employment, cash savings, pensions, or certain other income sources.
Income Proof Documents:
- Payslips (at least 6 months).
- Bank Statements showing income deposits.
- Employment Contract or letter from your employer.
If you’re using savings, you must have at least £62,500 in cash savings held for 6 months to bypass the income requirement.
4. Accommodation Requirement
Applicants must show they have adequate housing in the UK, either through rental agreements, property ownership, or proof of residing with family.
Documents for Accommodation:
- Rental Agreement or Mortgage Statement
- Letter from Landlord (if applicable)
- House Inspection Report (optional, but recommended for proving adequate living space)
5. English Language Requirement
To meet the English language requirement, you must demonstrate proficiency at A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This can be done through:
- Approved English Language Test: IELTS or other Home Office-approved tests.
- Educational Qualifications: Proof of a degree taught in English from a recognized institution.
- Exemptions: Citizens of majority English-speaking countries, individuals over 65, and applicants with certain disabilities are exempt.
6. Required Documents for a UK Spouse Visa
Collecting the correct documentation is essential for a successful application. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Valid Passport: For both the applicant and sponsor.
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate, photos, communication records, and joint travel history.
- Financial Evidence: Payslips, bank statements, or proof of savings.
- Accommodation Proof: Rental agreement, mortgage, or housing inspection report.
- English Language Test Certificate: For proof of English proficiency.
- Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results: Required if you’re from a country where TB testing is mandatory.
7. How to Apply for a UK Spouse Visa
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Fill out the application on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. You’ll be required to provide personal information, relationship details, and employment information.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
- Visa Fee: Approximately £1,538 if applying from outside the UK, or £1,048 if applying from within.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year, giving access to the UK’s NHS services.
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
Upload all required documents, including proof of relationship, financial information, and accommodation.
Step 4: Attend a Biometric Appointment
Schedule an appointment at a Visa Application Center to submit fingerprints and photographs. Some applicants may also be asked to attend an interview.
Step 5: Await Decision
The processing time is generally 12 weeks if applying from outside the UK, or up to 8 weeks if applying from within the UK.
8. Processing Times and Fees for the UK Spouse Visa
| Service | Fee (GBP) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | £1,538 (outside UK) / £1,048 (inside UK) | 8–12 weeks |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £624 per year | — |
| Priority Processing | Additional £500 | 5–10 days |
9. What to Do After Your Spouse Visa is Approved
Upon approval, your spouse visa will be valid for 2.5 years. Before it expires, you can apply to extend your visa for another 2.5 years. After five years of continuous residence in the UK on a spouse visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually for British citizenship.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work in the UK on a spouse visa?
Yes, the UK Spouse Visa allows you to work, study, and access public services in the UK. - How long does it take to get a spouse visa?
Standard processing is 8–12 weeks, with priority processing options available for faster decisions. - Can I apply for a spouse visa if I don’t meet the financial requirement?
Some applicants may apply under exceptional circumstances or use cash savings as an alternative to income. - Can I bring my children with me on a spouse visa?
Yes, but additional financial requirements apply depending on the number of dependent children. - What happens if my spouse visa application is refused?
You may appeal the decision or reapply with additional documentation. Seeking advice from an immigration specialist is recommended in these cases.
11. Conclusion
The UK Spouse Visa provides an accessible pathway for married partners of British citizens to join and build a life together in the UK. By meeting eligibility criteria, preparing the correct documents, and following the application process, you can navigate the spouse visa application with confidence. With the UK Spouse Visa, you can access work, study, and, eventually, permanent residency or citizenship in the UK.