Requirements for a UK spouse visa: What you should know 

The UK spouse visa is also commonly known as a UK marriage visa or partner visa. It enables non-residents of the UK to emigrate and live with their spouse or partner, who must be a citizen of the UK or have been granted settled status. 

Applicants must meet certain qualifying standards to be eligible for spouse visa UK.  

The first validity of the visa is up to 2 years and 9 months, if it is approved. You can eventually gain indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which grants you permanent residency in the UK. If you’re married and have ILR, you can seek British citizenship. 

UK spouse visa requirements: 

To submit an application for a spouse visa, you’ll need: 

• Proof of relationship: Evidence like marriage certificates, pictures, and messages to show your relationship is real.  

• Financial requirement: You must earn at least £29,000 a year (more if you have kids). Further rises are expected.  

• Accommodation requirement: Proof of a place to live in the UK that’s not overcrowded.  

• English language: Your spouse must pass a CEFR English test at A1 level or holds a degree that was taught or researched in English 

Application process for spouse visa UK: 

• Fill out your application online and pay the fee.  

• Provide biometric info (fingerprints and photos).  

• Pay the NHS (National Health Service) surcharge for healthcare access. 

Application process for spouse visa UK: 

Applying for a UK spouse visa or partner visa is done online through the home office website.  

Here’s a step-by-step guide: 

• Check eligibility: Make sure you qualify for the spouse visa. 

• Gather documents: Get your marriage certificate, proof of income, etc.  

• Complete the online form: Fill out the form at the home office website. 

• Pay online: Pay the application fee online.  

• Upload documents: Submit your supporting documents. like valid passports, and marriage certificates. 

• Book biometric appointment: Schedule to have your fingerprints and photo taken.  

• Attend interview (if needed): Go to the interview, if requested.  

UK spouse visa required document checklist: 

• Passports: Your passport and your partner’s UK passport or proof of settled status. 

• Marriage certificate: Proof of your marriage or civil partnership.  

• Proof of relationship: Photos together, messages, call logs, and other evidence that your relationship is genuine.  

•  Financial documents: Pay-slips, bank statements, and a letter from your employer to show you meet the income requirement. 

•  Accommodation details: Proof of where you’ll live in the UK, like a rental agreement or mortgage statement.  

•  English language certificate: Proof that you’ve passed an approved english language test or have a relevant qualification.  

•  TB test results: If you’re from a country where you have to take a tuberculosis test, you’ll need the certificate showing you’re clear.  

•  Application form: Completed online application form. 

•  NHS (National Health Service) surcharge payment confirmation: Proof that you’ve paid the immigration health surcharge.  

•  Biometric information: Receipt or appointment details for your fingerprints and pictures. 

How long does it take to get a UK spouse visa decision? 

• Applying from outside the UK: If you’re applying for a spouse visa from outside the country, you can generally expect to receive a decision within 24 weeks.  

• Applying from inside the UK:  If you meet the financial and English language requirements, you should receive a decision within 8 weeks.  

 
If you don’t meet these requirements, the process takes longer, and you can expect a decision in about 12 months. 

UK spouse visa extension conditions:  

Once you’ve been on your spouse visa for 2 years and 9 months, you can extend it further for 2 years and 6 months. You and your partner, who resides in the UK, must still be in the same legal relationship. Make sure to apply for the extension before your current visa runs out. This way your partner can stay in the UK 

Why choose us? 

Our team of experienced immigration solicitors can assist with your spouse visa application by providing expert advice and guidance tailored to your situation. Our immigration lawyers have more than a decade of experience assisting families, partners, and spouses so that they are united in the UK. We understand the urgency of separated families, and partners, as we work diligently to expedite your spouse visa application.  

We will help you gather all required documents, ensuring your application is correctly completed. Supporting you through each stage of the process, from assisting you to fulfil financial requirements, accommodation requirements, document preparation to attending biometric appointment, we offer personalised advice and addressing any specific challenges in your case, they aim will be to maximize your chances of a successful outcome.  

Frequently asked questions (FAQs):  

Can I work on a spouse visa? 

Yes, once the visa has been granted, you are eligible to work or study in the UK. 

What is the minimum age for a spouse visa? 

To apply for a spouse visa, both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old when you submit your application. 

Does the marriage need to be legally recognised in the UK for a spouse visa? 

To be eligible for a spouse visa, you and your partner must be legally married in a marriage that is accepted under UK law. 

Can I work in the UK on a spouse visa? 

Spouse visa holders have the complete freedom to work in the UK.