A UK Spouse Visa (also called a Partner Visa) allows non-UK partners to join their British or settled spouse in the United Kingdom. You must meet relationship, financial, English language, and accommodation requirements, and pay several fees to the UK Home Office and other providers.
Overview of Total UK Spouse Visa Costs in 2025
Your total cost may vary depending on where you apply, whether you hire help, and how many extra services you choose. Typical elements include:
- UK visa application fee
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Biometric appointment fee
- Optional priority processing
- English test (if needed)
- TB test (where applicable)
- Translation fees
- Legal fees (if using lawyer)
- Misc show up costs (travel, certificates)
UK Spouse Visa Fees – Main Application Costs
Here are the core visa fees as charged by the UK Home Office in 2025:
Standard Visa Fee (Inside the UK)
If you apply from inside the UK to extend or switch onto a spouse visa, the fee is typically higher than overseas applications.
➡️ Internal visa fee: ~£1,048 per applicant (estimate based on 2024 increases).
Results
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#1. How many years of experience do you have in your field?
#2. Which Country do you want to chat with?
#3. What is your current employment status?
#4. How much do you want to earn hourly?
#5. What is your highest level of education?
Standard Visa Fee (Outside the UK)
If you apply from abroad at a visa application centre, the fee is usually lower:
➡️ Outside UK visa fee: ~£1,538 per applicant (UK-set fee)*.
⚠️ Fees change yearly. Always check the official UK government website for live fees.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) 2025
The Immigration Health Surcharge is mandatory for most visa categories including spouses. It gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS).
IHS Breakdown & How It’s Calculated
The IHS is charged per year of your visa length.
- Usually about £624 per year
- A 2.5-year visa = 2.5 × £624 = £1,560
- A 5-year visa = 5 × £624 = £3,120
You pay this upfront with your application.
Who Must Pay the IHS?
You usually pay IHS unless you’re exempt (e.g., some diplomats, specific visa types).
Biometric Appointment Fees
You must book and attend a biometrics appointment to give fingerprints and a photo.
Typical biometric fees:
➡️ £19–£75 depending on location.
Priority and Super Priority Processing Fees
Want a faster decision?
- Priority service: quicker turnaround (usually 5–10 working days)
- Super priority: decision next working day
Extra costs can be £500–£1,500+ depending on service and visa centre.
English Language Test Costs
If your sponsor doesn’t have UK degree equivalency or exemption, you need an SELT test.
- English test tier: ~£150 – £250
TB Test Costs (Where Applicable)
Certain countries require a tuberculosis test.
TB test cost range: £40 – £150 depending on centre and country.
Document Translation Fees
Any foreign-language certificate must be translated.
- Translation services: £20 – £50 per page typically
Professional Legal Fees (Immigration Lawyers)
Many applicants choose legal help for accuracy.
Typical lawyer/immigration adviser fees:
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial consultation | £60–£200 |
| Full application service | £800–£3,500+ |
| Complex cases | £3,500–£8,000+ |
Note: Lawyers are not mandatory but can reduce risk of refusal.
Miscellaneous & Hidden Costs
There are several smaller costs that add up:
Police Certificates
Some countries must provide police clearance.
- Fees: £0–£100+ depending on country
Travel for Interviews or Appointments
If you must travel to a Home Office interview or biometric centre:
- Travel and accommodation: Variable
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Using an Immigration Lawyer
| DIY Application | With Lawyer |
|---|---|
| Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
| Must navigate rules alone | Expert guidance reduces errors |
| Risk of refusal if mistakes | Better chance of success |
💡 Many applicants start DIY and switch to lawyer help if needed.
Tips to Reduce Your UK Spouse Visa Costs
✔ Submit a complete application to avoid re-applications
✔ Check if you qualify for fee exemptions
✔ Compare multiple legal advisers
✔ Get translations done early
✔ Ask sponsors for document copies
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the total expected cost for a UK spouse visa in 2025?
Total often ranges from £3,000 to £7,000+ depending on IHS length and legal support.
2. Can I apply without paying the Immigration Health Surcharge?
In most cases you must pay, unless you’re specifically exempt.
3. Is a lawyer necessary for a spouse visa?
No—but legal help can reduce mistakes and refusal risk.
4. Are there extra costs for children joining too?
Yes, each dependent pays visa fees, IHS, and biometrics.
5. Does the Home Office refund priority fees if application fails?
Usually no, even if visa is refused.
6. Can costs be paid in instalments?
No—visa fee and IHS must be paid upfront with application.
Conclusion
Understanding UK Spouse Visa Costs 2025 helps you budget wisely and avoid surprises. The big expenses are the visa fee, IHS, and legal services, but don’t forget biometrics, tests, translations, and travel. Planning ahead can save thousands and boost your chance of a successful application.
