Complete Guide to UK Spouse Visa Documents for Self-Employed

If you’re applying for a UK spouse visa and your sponsor (the UK-based partner) is self-employed, there are specific documents required to meet the financial requirement. Self-employed sponsors must provide detailed evidence of their business income to prove they can financially support their spouse. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the documents required for self-employed sponsors in a UK spouse visa application, including financial requirements and tips for a successful application.

Table of Contents

1. UK Spouse Visa Financial Requirement for Self-Employed Sponsors

To qualify for a UK spouse visa, your self-employed sponsor must meet a minimum income threshold to demonstrate they can support you without relying on public funds.

Minimum Income Requirement: £18,600 annually for the sponsor, with additional amounts required for any dependent children.
Evidence Period: Self-employed income must be demonstrated over the most recent full financial year (usually April to April for UK self-employment).

The sponsor’s income will typically need to be verified through tax returns, business accounts, and other financial documents showing that the business is stable and generates the required income.

2. Key Documents for Self-Employed Sponsors in UK Spouse Visa Applications

Here’s a list of essential documents for self-employed sponsors, covering financial, tax, and business requirements.

A. Proof of Income and Financial Stability

Personal Bank Statements: Personal bank statements covering at least 12 months showing income received from the business.
Business Bank Statements: If the sponsor has a separate business bank account, statements should cover the most recent financial year.

B. Tax Documents

HMRC Tax Return (SA302): A copy of the latest SA302 form from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), showing income reported from self-employment.
Tax Year Overview: A tax year overview document from HMRC confirming the tax amount due for the most recent financial year.

C. Business Accounts and Financial Statements

Audited Accounts: If the business has turnover exceeding the threshold for limited companies (typically over £10 million), an audited set of business accounts prepared by a certified accountant is required.
Unaudited Accounts: If audited accounts aren’t required, unaudited business accounts prepared by an accountant (e.g., Profit and Loss Statement, Balance Sheet) should be provided.
Invoices and Receipts: Copies of invoices, receipts, or contracts to demonstrate consistent business income throughout the year.

D. Proof of Business Registration and Operation

Business Registration Certificate: For sole traders or company owners, provide evidence of registration with HMRC or Companies House.
VAT Registration: If the business is registered for VAT, provide the VAT registration certificate and recent VAT returns.
Business Insurance Documents: Proof of insurance (if required for the business type) can support the credibility of the business.
Business Lease or Ownership Documents: For businesses with physical premises, lease agreements or property ownership documents can be useful.

E. Accountant’s Letter

A letter from a certified or chartered accountant confirming:

The business type (e.g., sole trader, partnership, limited company)
Length of time the sponsor has been self-employed
Gross and net profits for the last financial year
Confirmation of the sponsor’s income meeting the financial requirement

3. Additional Documents for Limited Company Owners

If your sponsor operates as a director or shareholder of a limited company, additional documents may be required.

Dividend Vouchers: If the sponsor receives income from dividends, copies of dividend vouchers issued in the most recent financial year.
Company Accounts and Financial Statements: Annual company accounts for the last financial year.
Company Tax Returns (CT600): A copy of the corporation tax return for the company filed with HMRC.
Companies House Documents: Confirmation of directorship or shareholder status from Companies House records.

4. Additional Documents for Overseas Self-Employment

If the sponsor’s self-employment is based outside the UK, additional documentation may be required to establish the legitimacy of the income.

Proof of Overseas Business Registration: Documentation showing the business is registered according to local laws.
Tax Returns in the Country of Operation: Tax return forms from the relevant country’s tax authority.
Translation of Foreign Documents: Any documents not in English must be translated and certified.

Work with a Certified Accountant: Having an accountant prepare and verify financial documents can add credibility and ensure accuracy.
Submit Clear Evidence of Business Income: Consistent, regular income shown across bank statements, invoices, and tax records will strengthen your application.
Ensure All Documents Are Up-to-Date: Use the most recent financial year data, and make sure tax documents are accurate and complete.
Include a Cover Letter: Attach a cover letter summarizing the income sources, business stability, and compliance with financial requirements.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do self-employed sponsors need to have been in business to qualify for a UK spouse visa?
Self-employed sponsors should be in business for at least one complete financial year (April to April) before applying.

2. Do self-employed sponsors need to earn £18,600 net or gross?
The £18,600 threshold refers to gross income before tax, calculated based on the most recent financial year.

3. Can business expenses be deducted from the income requirement?
No, the gross income (before expenses and tax) must meet the threshold to satisfy the financial requirement.

4. Are there exceptions to the financial requirement for self-employed sponsors?
Exceptions may apply if the sponsor or applicant has a disability, is receiving specific benefits, or qualifies under unique circumstances.

5. Can the applicant work once they’re granted a UK spouse visa?
Yes, once approved, the spouse visa allows the applicant to work and live in the UK without restrictions.

6. Do self-employed sponsors need to provide documents for multiple years?
Typically, only documents from the most recent full financial year are required, though multiple years of consistent income may strengthen the application.