The UK Spouse Visa is designed for individuals who are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone settled in the UK. In the UK, foreign spouses are allowed to live, work, and study without restriction. As part of the application process for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British citizenship, this visa is a crucial step for couples wishing to reside together long-term.
Eligibility Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa
To apply successfully, applicants must meet strict UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) criteria:
- Relationship requirement: You must be legally married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term relationship recognized by UK law. Proof of cohabitation or marriage certificates are mandatory.
- Financial requirement: The sponsoring partner must have a minimum annual income of £18,600 (higher if dependent children are included). Alternatively, savings of £62,500 may be used.
- Accommodation requirement: Suitable accommodation must be available in the UK without recourse to public funds.
- English language requirement: Non-native English speakers must pass an approved English test at CEFR level A1 or above, unless exempt.
- Good character requirement: Applicants must not have serious criminal convictions or immigration breaches.
Financial Requirement in Detail
Meeting the financial requirement is one of the most challenging aspects of the application. Applicants can prove financial eligibility through:
- Employment income: Payslips, employment contracts, and bank statements.
- Self-employment: Tax returns, business accounts, and HMRC documents.
- Savings: A minimum of £62,500 held for six months or more.
- Combined sources: Salary and savings may be combined under certain rules.
Documents Required for a UK Spouse Visa
Applicants should prepare a comprehensive evidence package:
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- Valid passport and photographs.
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
- Proof of cohabitation and ongoing relationship (bills, tenancy agreements, joint bank accounts, photos, travel history).
- Financial documents (payslips, tax returns, savings evidence).
- Accommodation documents (tenancy agreement, mortgage statements).
- English language test certificate (where required).
- Tuberculosis test certificate (for applicants from certain countries).
Application Process
- Online application submission through the official UKVI website.
- Biometrics appointment at a visa application centre.
- Supporting documents upload or submission via scanning service.
- Application fee payment and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Decision waiting period – typically 12 weeks for overseas applications.
Processing Time for a UK Spouse Visa
- Standard service: Around 12 weeks from the date of biometrics.
- Priority service (if available): Within 6 weeks, at an additional cost.
- Super priority service: Next working day, available in select locations.
Fees and Costs
- Application fee (outside the UK): £1,846
- Application fee (inside the UK): £1,048
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year, payable upfront.
- Priority service fees (if chosen): Additional £500–£800.
Duration and Extension of the Visa
- Granted for 30 months (2.5 years) initially.
- Renewable for another 30 months before expiry.
- After 5 years of continuous residence, applicants may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Common Reasons for Refusal
Many applications are refused due to errors or insufficient evidence. Common reasons include:
- Failing to meet financial requirements.
- Inadequate proof of relationship.
- Incorrect or missing documentation.
- Failure to meet the English language test requirement.
- Previous immigration violations.
Appeal and Reapplication
Applicants who receive a refusal can:
- Lodge an appeal if they believe the decision was unjust.
- Submit a fresh application with corrected documents.
- Seek judicial review in cases of legal errors.
How a UK Spouse Visa Lawyer Can Help
Immigration lawyers provide professional assistance to increase the chances of success by:
- Preparing and checking all required documents.
- Advising on financial requirements and income evidence.
- Drafting detailed legal representations to UKVI.
- Guiding through appeals or refusals if needed.
Conclusion
Applying for a UK Spouse Visa requires detailed preparation, strong evidence, and strict adherence to immigration rules. By meeting the requirements, securing the right documentation, and seeking legal support when needed, couples can ensure a smoother application process. A family reunification visa allows for permanent settlement and citizenship in the UK as well as family reunification.
