The UK Spouse Visa allows married or long-term partners of British citizens or settled persons to live and work in the UK. It is valid for 30–33 months, extendable for another 30 months, and after 5 years applicants may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British Citizenship. This visa is one of the most common family visas in the UK.
What is a UK Spouse/Partner Visa?
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After 5 years on the Spouse Visa (2.5 years + extension), you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and later British Citizenship, provided all requirements continue to be met.
Who Can Apply for a UK Spouse Visa?
Applicants must be 18 or over and in a genuine relationship with an eligible partner. The sponsoring partner must be a British/Irish citizen, have ILR, permanent residence, or refugee/humanitarian protection. Unmarried partners can apply if they’ve lived together for at least 2 years or are engaged with a Fiancé(e) Visa.
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UK Spouse Visa Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet financial, relationship, and language criteria. The minimum income requirement is £29,000 per year (or £18,600 under transitional rules). Couples must prove their marriage is legally recognised or show 2+ years of cohabitation. Other requirements include English proficiency, proof of accommodation, and a TB test if needed.
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UK Spouse Visa Fees (2025)
The application costs vary depending on where you apply. Outside the UK the fee is £1,938; inside the UK it is £1,321. Each child dependent has the same cost. Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per adult per year and £776 per child. Priority (£500) and Super Priority (£1,000) services are optional for faster decisions.
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Processing Times
The Home Office typically decides Spouse Visa applications within 12 weeks if submitted from outside the UK, or 8 weeks if applied from inside. Processing can be faster if applicants pay for priority or super priority services, though delays can occur if documents are missing or additional checks are required.
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Required Documents
Applicants must submit proof of marriage or cohabitation, evidence of a genuine relationship, proof of income or savings, English language certificates, and accommodation documents. Valid passports and TB test results may also be required. All documents not in English must be translated by a certified professional.
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What Happens if My Spouse Visa is Accepted?
If approved, you’ll be granted leave to remain and receive an e-visa. Applicants must enter the UK within 30 days of the decision. If they miss this entry window, they can apply for a new entry permit but will need to pay an additional fee.
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What Happens if My Spouse Visa is Rejected?
A refusal letter will explain the reasons and whether you have a right to appeal. Common rejection reasons include not meeting the financial or English requirements, lack of relationship evidence, or incomplete documents. Applicants can reapply or appeal depending on their case.
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Spouse Visa Appeal Process
If you have appeal rights, you must act quickly. Appeals must be lodged within 28 days (if overseas) or 14 days (if inside the UK). Applicants need to gather strong supporting evidence, and some cases require attending a tribunal hearing.
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How Long Does the Appeal Take?
The appeal process is lengthy and can take up to 12 months or more. Timeframes depend on the complexity of the case and tribunal availability. During this period, applicants must not overstay their visa in the UK.
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How Do I Settle in the UK as a Spouse?
The standard settlement route is 5 years: an initial Spouse Visa (30/33 months), an extension (30 months), and then ILR. If married to a British citizen, applicants may apply for citizenship immediately after ILR; if not, they must wait 12 months. Those who don’t meet the requirements may qualify for the 10-year settlement route under human rights grounds.
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