Applying for a UK Spouse Visa can feel overwhelming, with complex requirements, financial criteria, and endless paperwork. But don’t worry—this guide is here to simplify the process for you. Whether you’re just starting or already knee-deep in gathering documents, we’ll break everything down into clear, actionable steps.

What Is a UK Spouse Visa?

A UK Spouse Visa lets you live with your husband, wife, or civil partner in the UK if they’re either:

1. a British citizen or an Irish citizen
2. a person with settled status (i.e., they have permanent residency)
3. they have refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK
4. they have a Turkish Businessperson visa or Turkish Worker visa. 

If you are granted a visa this will be for up to 30 months. It can then be extended for another 30 months providing you meet the requirements again. 

This UK Spouse Visa is the first step toward living together in the UK long-term and, after a few years, could lead to permanent residency (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and possibly British citizenship.

Think of it as your ticket to building a life together with your partner in the UK, whether it’s for work, family, or a fresh start.

Who Can Apply for a UK Spouse Visa?

Before you dive into the UK Spouse Visa application process, it’s essential to check if you meet the eligibility criteria. Both you (the applicant) and your UK partner must meet some basic requirements.

You can apply for a UK Spouse Visa if you are: 

• Aged 18 years or over
• Married or in a civil partnership that is recognised by the UK
• Married to a British citizen or a settled UK resident
• If you are not married, then you must prove that you have been living together in a relationship for the past 2 years
• You and your spouse must not be within a prohibited degree of relationship as defined in the Marriage Act 1949 and the Marriage (Prohibited Degrees of Relationship) Act 19886

We’ll now take a look at some of the requirements in more detail:

1. Your Relationship

• Marriage or Civil Partnership: You must be legally married or in a civil partnership. This can be done abroad, as long as it’s legally recognized in the UK and in the country that you were married in.
• Living Together: If you’re not married, but have lived together as a couple for at least two years, you can still apply for a UK Spouse Visa.
• Proof of a Genuine Relationship: You need to prove that your relationship is genuine. This includes things like a marriage certificate, joint bills, photos, letters, travel records, or messages from each other. The more evidence you can provide, the better. 

2. Financial Requirements

• Income: Your UK partner must earn at least £29,000 per year. If you have dependent children, this amount goes up for each child that you have. The financial requirements differ if your partner is in receipt of certain disability or carer’s benefits or if you first applied as a partner before 11 April 2024 and you are extending that visa.
• Savings: If your partner doesn’t meet the income requirement, you can use savings to make up for it. For example, you’ll need £88,500 in savings to meet the financial requirement if your partner’s income is too low. It was previously £62,500 before 11 April 2024. The savings requirements will also differ for every child you have that is applying with your spouse. 
• Employment: Your partner’s income can come from various sources—employment, self-employment, pensions, or even rental income. Just make sure all documents show consistent, reliable income.

3. Accommodation

For your UK Spouse Visa, you must prove that you have a place to live in the UK that’s suitable for both of you. The accommodation should not be overcrowded and should meet UK housing standards.

This can include things like a rental agreement, property deed, or mortgage statement showing that your home is ready for you and your partner.

4. English Language Requirement

For your UK Spouse Visa, you must demonstrate that you can speak English at a basic level. You can do this by passing an approved English language test (at least level A1) or by having a degree taught in English. If you are relying on your degree you must provide a certificate from Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) to show that the degree is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree or higher and that it was taught in English.

If you’re from a country where English is the official language, you might not need to take a test. Be sure to check if this applies to you.

There are exemptions to the English language requirement for a UK Spouse Visa which include if:

• You are over 65 years of age
• You have a physical or mental conditions that affects your ability to meet the requirement
• You are from the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, New Zealand, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, USA.

UK Spouse Visa Step-by-Step Application Process

Now, let’s get into the details of the UK Spouse Visa application process. It’s easier than it seems once you know what to expect.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

The first thing you’ll need to do for your UK Spouse Visa is gather all your documents. Missing or incomplete paperwork can cause delays, so take your time and make sure everything’s in order. Here’s a basic checklist of documents you’ll need:

• Valid Passports: Both you and your UK spouse need valid passports.
• Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate: This proves that you’re legally married or in a civil partnership. If you’ve been together for two years but aren’t married, you’ll need to prove your cohabitation.
• Proof of Your Relationship: Provide evidence like joint bank accounts, photos, letters, emails, joint bills, or anything that shows you’ve been in a real, ongoing relationship.
• Financial Documents: This could include your partner’s payslips, bank statements, proof of savings, or tax documents. These must show that you meet the financial requirement. The documents needed will depend on where and what type of income it is that you receive (i.e. self-employment, rental income, director of a limited company or employment). The specific type of evidence can be found on the GOV.UK website.
• Accommodation Evidence: Documents that prove you have a place to live, like a rental agreement or mortgage statement. In some instances, a property inspection report will be required to confirm that the accommodation will not be overcrowded and is sufficient.
• English Language Proof: Either your test results or your degree certificate, if applicable.
• Tuberculosis test results if you are from a country where you have to take the test. You can find out by visiting the GOV.UK website.

Make sure all documents are clear, original, and easy to read. If any documents are not in English, you’ll need to get them officially translated.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

The next step is filling out the UK Spouse Visa application form. This is done online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. Make sure to fill out the form carefully. Take your time and double-check everything. Mistakes or missing information can cause delays or a rejection.

If you are applying outside the UK, this must be done through this link. However, if you are applying inside the UK, this must be done through this link.

For more information, read this guide on how to thoroughly compete the online application.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

There are two main fees you’ll need to pay when applying for your UK Spouse Visa:

• Application Fee:

	Applying outside the UK	Applying inside the UK
Fee for UK Spouse Visa	£1,846	£1,258
Fee for each dependant added	£1,846	£1,258

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):

This is an extra fee of £1,035 per year for adults and £776 per year for those under 18. This payment gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), so you don’t have to pay for healthcare.

These fees must be paid when you submit your UK Spouse Visa application. Good thing is, you can also process this payment online.

Step 4: Book Your Biometric Appointment

As part of the UK Spouse Visa application, you’ll need to submit your biometric details (fingerprints and a photograph). You can book an appointment at a visa application centre near you to get this done.

Step 5: Submit Your Documents

Depending on where you’re applying from, you’ll either upload your documents online or submit them at a visa application centre. Make sure you submit all the required documents—missing anything could slow down the process.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

Once you’ve submitted everything, you’ll need to wait for the decision which can take up to 3 months. If you’re applying from outside the UK, you can pay an extra £500 for a decision within 30 working days from the date of your biometrics. 

During this time, the UK Home Office may request more information or documents. Keep an eye on your email for any updates.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

To avoid delays or mistakes in your UK Spouse Visa application, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Check Your Documents Carefully: Missing documents can lead to refusals or delays. Make sure everything is complete and in the right format.
• Don’t Forget the Financial Requirement: Double-check that your partner’s income or savings meet the financial requirement.
• Be Honest About Your Relationship: The Home Office will look for evidence that your relationship is genuine, so be transparent and provide plenty of proof.
• Meet the English Language Requirement: Make sure you have the correct documents to prove your English skills.

It’s important to be prepared in case your UK Spouse Visa application is rejected. Here are your options:

1. Appeal the Decision

If you think the decision was wrong, you might be able to appeal. This is especially useful if the refusal of your UK Spouse Visa application was based on a mistake or misunderstanding.

2. Request an Administrative Review

If you believe your application was handled incorrectly, you can ask for an administrative review. This doesn’t mean you’ll be granted the visa, but it can help correct errors.

3. Reapply with Corrected Information

If your UK Spouse Visa application was refused, you can always reapply, provided you fix any mistakes or missing documents from your original application.

If you’re unsure or need help, consider getting professional advice from an immigration lawyer. They can help you avoid pitfalls and increase your chances of success.

Final Thoughts

The UK Spouse Visa application process can be a little overwhelming at first, but once you understand the steps and what’s expected of you, it becomes much easier to manage. Take your time to gather the necessary documents, follow the steps carefully, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it.

Remember, this visa is the first step toward building your life with your partner in the UK. Stay organized, stay patient, and soon enough, you’ll be on your way to a new chapter in your life.

For the most up-to-date information and official guidance, always refer to the UK Government website. If you have any doubts or need assistance, don’t hesitate to consult an immigration adviser to make sure your UK Spouse Visa application goes smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)