Applying for a UK Spouse Visa is a significant step for couples wishing to live together in the United Kingdom. The application process is governed by strict immigration rules that must be followed to ensure a positive outcome. Failing to meet these standards can cause delays, refusals, or potential legal complications.
In this guide, we cover the essential immigration rules you should understand before applying for a UK Spouse Visa.
Key Takeaways
- A UK Spouse Visa allows individuals to join their partner who has residency in the United Kingdom.
- The initial visa is valid for two and a half years. After five years, it may be extended for a further two and a half years.
- Applicants must meet strict requirements relating to English ability, age, relationship status, finances, and accommodation.
- Applications are commonly refused for insufficient evidence, errors in financial records, failure to show a genuine relationship, or immigration history issues.
- Seeking professional immigration advice can help you overcome obstacles and make your application stronger. If you’re considering legal help, check out our article Questions to Ask Before Hiring a UK Immigration Lawyer.
Understanding the UK Spouse Visa
The UK Spouse Visa is designed to allow people to join their husband, wife, or partner who already has settled status in the UK. This visa applies to legally recognised marriages and civil partnerships, as well as some long-term relationships. You may apply either from within the UK or from abroad.
Visa holders can work and study freely in the UK, providing they continue to meet immigration conditions such as maintaining their relationship and financial stability.
Eligibility Requirements for the UK Spouse Visa
Both the applicant and the UK-based sponsor must meet several requirements set out by UK immigration law. The main conditions are explained below.
Age Requirement
Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old when you submit your application. This is required to ensure you are legally entitled to marry under UK law.
Relationship Status
You must demonstrate that your relationship meets UK immigration standards. This means you are either married, in a civil partnership, or have lived together in a committed relationship for at least two years.
The Home Office will closely assess your supporting evidence to confirm your relationship is genuine and ongoing. Fraudulent or arranged relationships made solely for visa purposes will result in refusal.
Common examples of evidence include:
- Marriage or civil partnership certificates
- Photographs of life milestones such as your wedding
- Communication records, including messages or emails
- Documents showing joint finances or utility bills
- Travel records showing visits to each other
If you are unsure whether your relationship meets the required standard, consult an immigration specialist for guidance to improve your application.
Financial Requirements
The financial criteria for a spouse visa are among the strictest parts of the process. The sponsor must show that they have sufficient income to support you without recourse to public funds.
From 11 April 2024, the required minimum annual income for family visas is £29,000. If this cannot be met through income alone, savings may be used. The required savings amount to meet the financial requirement by themselves is £88,500.
Sometimes, a combination of income and savings may be accepted to reach the required threshold. The UK government regularly updates these rules, so check for the most current requirements before you apply.
Accommodation Requirements
You must demonstrate you will have suitable accommodation available for both you and your sponsor in the UK. The property:
- Must not be overcrowded
- Must be safe and in good condition
You may need to provide tenancy agreements, property inspection reports, or mortgage documents as proof.
English Language Requirement
Applicants must prove they can speak and understand English. You can meet this rule by:
- Passing an approved English test (such as IELTS Life Skills at least A1 for your first application or A2 for extensions)
- Showing you hold a degree taught in English
- Holding citizenship from a country where English is the main language
Tuberculosis (TB) Test
If you are applying from a country where TB is common, you must get a certificate from an approved clinic. This proves you do not pose a health risk upon arrival in the UK.
Application Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Applying for a UK Spouse Visa involves required costs that you need to plan for in your budget. These include the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Visa Application Fees
The cost of a UK Spouse Visa varies depending on whether you apply from inside the UK or from another country:
- Applying from outside the UK: £1,938
- Applying from within the UK: £1,321
These fees cover the processing of your application. Additional fees may apply for translations, advice, or speedy processing.
Immigration Health Surcharge
Each spouse visa applicant pays the NHS surcharge to use healthcare services in the UK. The current amount is £1,035 per year. With this payment, you can access NHS care, but some services, like prescriptions or dental work, may require extra payments.
Can Your Spouse Visa Be Refused?
Yes, applications are sometimes refused by the Home Office. Common reasons include:
- Sponsor failing to meet the £29,000 threshold (post-April 2024) or providing insufficient financial proof
- Failure to demonstrate a genuine, ongoing relationship
- Missing or incorrect documentation, such as absent marriage certificates or a lack of communication evidence
- Not providing an approved English test result or evidence of eligibility
- Accommodation not meeting UK Visa and Immigration standards
- Past immigration problems such as visa overstaying, previous refusals, or misstatements in your application
What to Do If Your Application Is Refused
If you receive a refusal letter, you will be informed of the specific reasons. Possible next steps include:
- Administrative Review: If the refusal was a result of a Home Office error, you may request a review.
- Appeal: If you believe the decision was wrong and you are entitled to appeal, you may challenge the refusal.
- Reapply: If the issue was missing evidence or simple mistakes, you may submit a new application with stronger documentation.
Expert Support with Your Spouse Visa Application
Preparing a successful UK Spouse Visa application requires careful attention to detail. Errors or missing documents often cause avoidable delays or refusals. Our team at JPS Immigration provides tailored advice to make your application as strong as possible, whether you need guidance on finances, proving your relationship, or managing an appeal.
Contact us today to speak to our experienced immigration team and boost your chances of a positive decision.
Also, stay updated on new policies by following the article UK Immigration White Paper 2025: Proposals to Reform the Migration System.
FAQs
What are the main requirements for a UK Spouse Visa?
You must prove your marriage or partnership, meet the financial and English language criteria, and show you intend to live together in the UK.
How do I demonstrate I meet the financial requirement?
You can use income from employment, self-employment, savings, or pensions to show you meet the minimum threshold.
Is it possible to apply from inside the UK?
Yes, if you are in the UK on another visa, such as a student or work visa, you may apply for a spouse visa before your current visa expires.
What documents are needed to support a spouse visa application?
You will need a marriage or partnership certificate, evidence of living together, proof of finances, and proof of English ability.
What if my application is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter giving reasons. Depending on the case, you may be able to appeal, seek a review, or reapply once you have resolved any issues. Speaking to an immigration specialist is strongly recommended.
