Spouse Visa Refused

A UK Spouse Visa refusal occurs when UKVI rejects your application to join your partner in the UK. Refusals often result from missing evidence, financial shortfalls, or paperwork errors. A refusal can delay family reunion and affect future applications since Home Office caseworkers examine your immigration history closely.

Refusals can be emotionally and financially draining, forcing couples to remain apart while appealing or reapplying. They may lead to prolonged immigration proceedings, often requiring professional representation to address issues raised in the refusal notice.

Most refusals result from either failing to meet eligibility criteria or providing insufficient evidence. Typical issues include missing relationship proof, unmet financial thresholds, inadequate accommodation details, or errors in forms and documents.

UKVI expects strong proof that your marriage or partnership is real and subsisting. Missing evidence, conflicting timelines, or weak supporting documents often lead to refusal. Interviews may be used to check for inconsistencies.

Sponsors must earn at least £29,000 per year (2025 rules). Refusals happen if income evidence is missing, out of date, or does not meet UKVI’s strict format. Miscalculations or incomplete payslips can trigger automatic refusals.

Errors or omissions on the application form often lead to refusals. Discrepancies between declared income, supporting documents, or personal details undermine credibility and can be seen as dishonesty.

Applicants must meet CEFR levels A1, A2, or B1 depending on the application stage. Expired certificates, unapproved test centres, or missing documentation often cause refusals.

You must prove you have suitable housing that is not overcrowded and does not rely on public funds. Missing tenancy agreements, ownership proof, or independent inspection reports often cause refusals.

Caseworkers assess whether you and your sponsor meet the “good character” requirement. Criminal convictions, overstays, or breaches of visa conditions often lead to refusals unless clearly explained and documented.

Your marriage must be legally valid in the country where it took place. UKVI also compares details provided by both partners—contradictory information about dates, addresses, or relationship history leads to refusals.

All non-English or non-Welsh documents must be translated by certified translators. Missing translations or unofficial documents often result in rejection.

Depending on the refusal letter, you may request administrative review, appeal to the First-tier Tribunal, or seek judicial review. Each option has strict deadlines and requires strong legal grounds with supporting evidence.

Where appeal rights exist, you must file a notice of appeal within the specified deadline. Hearings before the First-tier Tribunal may involve presenting new evidence and explaining grounds under human rights law.

You can reapply with a stronger application addressing all refusal reasons. Updated evidence, corrected mistakes, and complete documentation improve chances of success on reapplication.

Pre-application checks, strong evidence bundles, and legal review reduce refusal risks. Templates, timelines, and professional representation ensure applications meet Home Office standards.