The United Kingdom remains a popular destination for couples looking to build a future together. If you’re married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone who holds settled status, applying for a UK spouse visa is the first major step toward joining them and starting your life in the UK.
But what exactly does the process involve? What are the requirements, and how can you prepare?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the UK spouse visa—from eligibility and financial thresholds to documentation and timelines.
What Is a UK Spouse Visa?
Also known as a family visa, the UK spouse visa allows the husband, wife, or civil partner of a British citizen or settled person (someone with indefinite leave to remain or permanent residence) to live and work in the UK.
The initial visa is valid for 30 months (2.5 years), after which you can apply to extend it. Once you’ve lived in the UK on this visa for five years, you may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR)—the first step toward British citizenship.
Who Is Eligible for a UK Spouse Visa?
Before gathering documents, it’s important to ensure you meet the core eligibility requirements:
1. Relationship Requirement
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You must be legally married to, or in a civil partnership with, a British citizen or settled person.
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Your relationship must be genuine and ongoing—evidence such as joint bills, communication, or cohabitation may be required.
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Unmarried partners must have lived together for at least two years.
2. Age Requirement
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Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
3. Financial Requirement
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You must jointly earn a minimum of £18,600 per year.
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Add £3,800 for your first child and £2,400 for each additional child.
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Income can come from employment, self-employment, pensions, or savings.
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If you don’t meet the income threshold, you can use savings (held for at least six months) to make up the difference.
4. English Language Requirement
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You must demonstrate English proficiency by:
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Passing an approved test at CEFR level A1 or higher.
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Holding a degree taught in English.
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Being from an exempt country (e.g., the US or Canada).
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5. Accommodation Requirement
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You must show that you have adequate accommodation for you, your partner, and any dependents. This could be owned or rented, but it must meet UK housing standards.
Required Documents for the Application
To apply for a spouse visa, you’ll need to provide documents proving your eligibility. These typically include:
Relationship Evidence
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Marriage or civil partnership certificate
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Joint financial documents
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Photos, communication records, or proof of cohabitation
Financial Evidence
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Payslips (last 6 months)
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Bank statements showing income
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Employer’s letter confirming job and salary
Accommodation Evidence
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Tenancy agreement or mortgage documents
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Housing inspection report (if applicable)
English Language Proof
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English test certificate or university degree certificate
Other Documents
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Passports for both partners
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Immigration history (if applicable)
How to Apply for a UK Spouse Visa
1. Online Application
Begin by completing the application on the UK Home Office website. You’ll upload documents and pay the visa fee online.
2. Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
This mandatory fee gives you access to the NHS during your stay. The current rate is £624 per year.
3. Biometric Appointment
You’ll attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph for your residence permit.
4. Visa Decision
Applications can take up to 12 weeks to process. Priority services may be available for faster results.
In-Depth: UK Spouse Visa Financial Requirements
Many applicants find the financial requirement to be one of the more complex aspects of the process. Here’s a breakdown:
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Minimum income: £18,600 for the applicant + £3,800 for the first child + £2,400 for each additional child.
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Using savings: If your income falls short, you can use cash savings over £16,000, held for at least six months.
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For every £2.50 short of the income requirement, you’ll need £1 in savings. For example, to make up a £5,000 shortfall, you’d need £25,000 in savings.
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Income can be combined from multiple sources, such as employment, rental income, or pensions.
How Long Is the Visa Valid?
The initial spouse visa lasts 30 months (2.5 years). You can apply to extend it for another 30 months, and after five years, you may be eligible for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which can lead to British citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a UK spouse visa?
Standard processing takes up to 12 weeks, but expedited services are available.
What is the application fee?
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£1,538 if applying from outside the UK
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£1,048 if applying from within the UK
Are there exceptions to the financial requirement?
Yes. If your partner receives certain disability-related benefits, the income requirement may not apply. You’ll still need to prove adequate support.
Can I work in the UK on this visa?
Yes. A spouse visa allows you to work and study in the UK with no restrictions.
Can I apply if I’m engaged but not yet married?
No. The spouse visa is only for those already married or in a civil partnership. If you’re engaged, consider applying for a fiancé(e) visa, which lets you enter the UK to marry within six months.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a UK spouse visa can seem overwhelming, but with proper preparation and a clear understanding of the requirements, it’s a manageable process. From meeting the financial thresholds to proving the legitimacy of your relationship, every detail matters.
If you’re planning to begin the application process or need tailored guidance, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice to avoid delays or complications.