UK SPOUSE VISA

As of 11 April 2024, the minimum income requirement for the UK Spouse Visa has increased to £29,000. Spouse Visa UK comes under the category of UK family visa. This visa is for those married to a UK resident. 

The change is applied to sponsors who are British citizens or hold settled status in the UK. Apply from abroad or, under specific conditions, switch to a spouse visa within the UK.

At Axis Solicitors, our immigration lawyers offer expert legal support. Contact us today for Free initial assessment.

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What is UK Spouse Visa?

The UK Spouse Visa is a visa route under the family category that allows an eligible foreign national to enter and remain in the UK with their partner. The UK-based partner must be either:

  • A British citizen
  • An Irish citizen
  • A person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), permanent residence, or EU Settled Status
  • A refugee or individual with humanitarian protection
  • A Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker visa holder

Applicants must demonstrate that they are in a genuine and subsisting relationship and that they intend to live together in the UK on a permanent basis.

Duration and Path to Settlement

If granted, a UK Spouse Visa is initially valid for 2 years and 9 months. It can be extended for another 2 years and 6 months. After 5 years of lawful residence on a spouse visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and later British citizenship, provided you meet all ongoing requirements.

Who Can Apply for a Spouse Visa UK?

To apply, the applicant must meet all of the following:

  • Be 18 years or older
  • Be in a genuine relationship with a qualifying UK partner
  • Intend to live together in the UK permanently
  • Meet the financial, accommodation, and English language requirements
  • Provide all required supporting documents in the correct format

UK Spouse Visa Requirements 2025

Successfully applying for a Spouse Visa UK involves meeting a number of specific eligibility criteria and providing enough compelling evidence. 

1. Genuine Relationship Requirements

You must show that your relationship for a UK Spouse Visa application is genuine and ongoing. You will qualify if you:

  • Are married or in a civil partnership legally recognised in the UK
  • Have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years
  • Plan to marry or enter into a civil partnership within 6 months of arriving in the UK

Evidence of your relationship may include:

  • Marriage or civil partnership certificate
  • Photographs together over time
  • Joint financial documents
  • Correspondence over time (emails, messages)
  • Travel documents showing visits to each other

The Home Office will scrutinise your case to ensure that it is not a sham or convenience marriage.

2. Financial Requirements

As of 11 April 2024, the minimum income threshold to sponsor a spouse or partner for a UK Spouse Visa is £29,000 gross annual income. This requirement applies whether you are applying from inside or outside the UK.

You can meet this requirement through:

  • Income from employment or self-employment
  • Pension income of either partner
  • Certain benefits
  • Cash savings of at least £88,500, held for 6 consecutive months

If the application was submitted before 11 April 2024, the lower income threshold of £18,600 still applies.

There is no longer an additional income requirement for children, but applicants must still demonstrate that they can accommodate and support dependents without public funds.

Financial Requirement Exemptions

If the sponsor in your UK Spouse Visa application receives one of the following benefits, the financial requirement is waived:

  • Disability Living Allowance
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
  • Carer’s Allowance
  • Severe Disablement Allowance
  • Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
  • Attendance Allowance
  • Armed Forces Independence Payment
  • War Disablement Pension
  • Police Injury Pension

Even in these cases, the applicant must show adequate maintenance and suitable accommodation.

3. English Language Requirements

You must demonstrate that you can speak and understand English. You can meet these requirements by:

  • Passing a recognised English language test at CEFR Level A1 or above
  • Holding a degree taught in English from a recognised institution
    Being a national of a majority English-speaking country

You are exempt from this requirement if:

  • You are over 65
  • You have a physical or mental condition preventing you from meeting the requirement

4. Accommodation Requirement

You must show that you have suitable accommodation in the UK. This includes:

  • Evidence of ownership or a tenancy agreement
  • Confirmation that the property is not overcrowded
  • That the accommodation is safe and meets public health standards

Living with family or friends may be acceptable, provided there is sufficient space and formal permission is granted.

UK Spouse Visa Required Document Checklist

Applicants must submit clear, verifiable documentation to satisfy all requirements. Depending on your case, these may include:

  • Valid passport and travel documents
  • Marriage certificate or proof of relationship (for unmarried partners: joint tenancy agreements, utility bills, photos, correspondence, etc.)
  • Proof of English proficiency: Secure English Language Test (SELT) pass certificate or degree taught in English
  • Proof of income:
    • 6 months of payslips and bank statements if employed
    • Tax returns and accountant letters if self-employed
    • P60s and employment letters
    • Proof of savings
  • Accommodation documents:
    • Mortgage statement or tenancy agreement
    • Letter from landlord 
    • Housing inspection report 
  • Biometric appointment confirmation
  • TB test results
  • Proof of legal immigration status of the UK sponsor
  • National Insurance number 
  • Evidence of previous visa refusals, immigration history, or criminal records
  • Two passport-size photos, compliant with UK photo guidelines

Each document must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation. Incorrect or missing documents are the most common cause of refusal.

UK Spouse Visa Fees / Cost in 2025

  • Application outside the UK: £1,846
  • Application inside the UK: £1,258
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year
  • Biometric enrolment: £19.20
  • Super Priority service (optional): £1,000

These fees are subject to change. We provide full cost breakdowns before you apply. For updated rates visit GOV.UK

How to Apply for UK Spouse Visa

The application process is completed online through the Home Office website. The general steps are:

  1. Determine eligibility and gather evidence
  2. Complete the online visa application
  3. Pay the relevant visa and healthcare fees
  4. Upload supporting documents
  5. Book and attend a biometric appointment
  6. Attend an interview if requested by UKVI

Our solicitors handle the full process on your behalf, including drafting representations, managing deadlines, and responding to UKVI queries.

Spouse Visa Extension

Applicants can apply to extend their UK Spouse Visa for an additional 2 years and 6 months, bringing them closer to the required 5-year residency period needed for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). You must apply before your current visa expires and meet the following ongoing requirements:

1. Continued Relationship

You must still be in a genuine and subsisting relationship with your UK partner. The Home Office may request updated evidence, such as:

  • Recent photos
  • Joint bills or bank statements
  • Ongoing communication
  • Evidence of shared responsibilities

Living apart due to work, travel, or temporary circumstances is acceptable, but you must explain the reason and provide proof of ongoing commitment.

2. Financial Requirement

You must continue to meet the £29,000 income threshold or demonstrate sufficient cash savings. If your partner receives a qualifying benefit, you must satisfy the adequate maintenance requirement instead.

The financial documents must reflect your most recent income circumstances and be consistent with your previous visa application.

3. Accommodation Requirement

You must prove that you continue to have access to suitable accommodation that:

  • Is safe and secure
  • Is not overcrowded
  • Will be available to you and your family without relying on public funds

Evidence should be recent and may include updated tenancy agreements or utility bills.

4. English Language Requirement

For a visa extension, the English requirement increases from CEFR A1 to A2 in both speaking and listening. You must take a test at a UKVI-approved centre or qualify through other accepted means.

Failure to pass this test before your visa expiry date may result in your application being refused or delayed.

5. Compliance with Visa Conditions

You must not have:

  • Worked illegally or breached visa conditions
  • Accrued excessive absences that call into question your UK residency
  • Committed any criminal offences that could impact your application

If your circumstances have changed, you must provide clear evidence and supporting explanations.

Spouse Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

After 5 years of lawful residence in the UK on a UK Spouse Visa, you may apply for ILR. To qualify for ILR under the Spouse Visa route, you must meet all of the following criteria:

  1. Genuine and Subsisting Relationship
  2. Financial Requirement
  3. Accommodation Requirement
  4. Life in the UK Test
  5. English Language Requirement – CEFR Level B1
  6. Continuous Residence and Absences
  7. Good Character Requirement

Spouse Visa Refusal

1. Failure to Prove a Genuine and Subsisting Relationship

The Home Office must be satisfied that the relationship is real, long-term, and ongoing—not a marriage of convenience.

Common issues include:

  • Minimal or generic evidence of contact (e.g., limited messages or photos)
  • Lack of in-person interaction (no visits, no shared travel history)
  • Inconsistencies in relationship timeline or personal details
  • Over-reliance on template letters with no personalised content
  • No evidence of financial interdependence or shared life responsibilities

2. Not Meeting the Financial Requirement

As of April 2024, the income threshold is £29,000 per year or £88,500 in savings. If this is not met or proven properly, the application will be refused.

Common mistakes:

  • Submitting incomplete or inconsistent bank statements
  • Missing wage slips, tax records, or employer letters
  • Not holding savings for the required 6-month period

  • Including income sources not recognised by UKVI
  • Combining income categories incorrectly

3. Insufficient or Unsuitable Accommodation

You must prove that you and your partner will have adequate accommodation that is not overcrowded or reliant on public funds.

Common issues:

  • No evidence of where the couple will live
  • Accommodation is already overcrowded according to UK housing standards
  • Landlord consent not provided
  • No tenancy agreement or mortgage statements

4. English Language Requirement Not Met

Applicants must demonstrate basic English skills (A1 level for first-time applicants) through approved tests or academic qualifications.

Common errors:

  • Taking the wrong type of English test
  • Submitting expired test certificates
  • Failing to include a UK ENIC statement for foreign degrees taught in English
  • Assuming exemption without qualifying

5. Incorrect or Incomplete Documentation

Applications are commonly refused due to missing or invalid documents.

Typical documentation failures:

  • Documents not translated into English
  • Missing signatures on key forms or letters
  • Outdated financial or accommodation documents

  • Uploading the wrong files or mislabelled PDFs
  • Lack of consistency between forms and supporting evidence

6. Failure to Disclose Immigration History or Criminal Records

Applicants must fully disclose any previous visa applications, refusals, overstays, or criminal convictions.

Common mistakes:

  • Not mentioning previous visa refusals or overstays
  • Concealing minor criminal convictions
  • Failing to provide required criminal record certificates

7. Application Filed on the Wrong Basis or Visa Route

Some applicants mistakenly apply for a Spouse Visa when they should be applying for a different category (e.g., fiancé(e) visa, partner visa, unmarried partner visa).

Common errors:

  • Fiancé(e) applicants applying under the Spouse Visa route before marriage
  • Applying as a spouse without legally recognised marriage documentation
  • Applying while on a visit visa

8. Failure to Attend Biometric Appointment or Interview

Applicants are typically required to attend a biometric enrolment appointment and may be invited to an interview.

Common issues:

  • Missing the biometric appointment
  • Not providing required biometrics in time
  • Ignoring interview invitation or not adequately prepared

9. Incorrect Payment of Fees or IHS Surcharge

Applications will not be processed without full payment of the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

Common problems:

  • Failure to pay the IHS surcharge
  • Technical errors during online payment
  • Payment not processed by the bank

10. Excessive Absences or Lack of Cohabitation

Even if you are in a genuine relationship, long periods apart can raise doubts, especially without explanation.

Common red flags:

  • Limited physical time spent together
  • Long-distance relationships with little to no cohabitation history
  • No concrete plans to live together in the UK

Why Choose Axis Solicitors?

UK Spouse Visa applications are document-heavy and time-sensitive. With refusal rates increasing due to minor technical errors and incomplete requirements, professional legal advice is essential.

At Axis Solicitors:

  • We conduct a detailed case assessment before starting any application
  • We prepare and review all documents, applications, and representations
  • We manage communications with the Home Office
  • We maximise your chances of success from the outset

Contact us today for help regarding immigration issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a UK Spouse Visa and who is it for?

A UK Spouse Visa allows a non-UK national to live in the UK with their British or settled partner. This visa is for individuals who are married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term relationship with someone who is a:

  • British or Irish citizen
  • Holder of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
  • EU Settled Status holder
  • Refugee or humanitarian protection status holder
  • Turkish Businessperson or Turkish Worker visa holder

You must be over 18, in a genuine relationship, and intend to live together in the UK.

2. Can unmarried partners apply for a Spouse Visa?

Yes. You can apply as an unmarried partner if you have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years. You must provide solid evidence of cohabitation, such as joint tenancy agreements, utility bills, bank statements, and photos.

3. What is the financial requirement for a UK Spouse Visa in 2025?

You must show a minimum gross annual income of £29,000 (unless exempt). This can come from:

  • Employment or self-employment
  • Pension income
  • Certain benefits (for exemptions)

If you applied before 11 April 2024, the previous threshold of £18,600 applies.

4. Do I still need to meet the financial requirement if my partner receives benefits?

If your partner receives a qualifying disability-related benefit, you may be exempt from the standard financial requirement. However, you must still show that you can be adequately maintained without recourse to public funds.

  1. What are acceptable proofs of a genuine relationship?

To prove your relationship is genuine and subsisting, you may submit:

  • Marriage or civil partnership certificate
  • Photos over the course of your relationship
  • Joint tenancy agreements or bills
  • Travel records showing visits to each other
  • Screenshots of messages, emails, and call logs
  • Statements from friends or family

The more diverse and consistent your evidence, the stronger your application.

6. How long does the Spouse Visa application process take?

Processing time varies depending on where you apply from:

  • Outside the UK: 8 to 12 weeks 
  • Inside the UK: 8 weeks

Delays may occur if UKVI requests further documents or schedules an interview.

7. Can I work in the UK on a Spouse Visa?

Yes. A UK Spouse Visa grants full rights to work and study. There are no restrictions on the type of job or number of hours you can work.

8. Can I apply for a Spouse Visa from inside the UK?

Yes, you can switch to a Spouse Visa from another visa category (e.g., student, work, fiancé(e)) as long as you are not on a visit visa or have overstayed without reasonable cause. You must meet all eligibility criteria at the time of switching.

9. Can I include my children in the same application?

No. Dependent children must apply separately under the child dependent route. You’ll need to demonstrate that:

  • The child lives with you 
  • You have sole or joint responsibility
  • You have sufficient income and accommodation

10. How long is the visa valid and when can I apply for settlement (ILR)?

The initial visa is valid for 2 years and 9 months. After this period, you can apply for an extension of 2 years and 6 months.

After 5 continuous years, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if you:

  • Remain in a genuine relationship
  • Pass the Life in the UK Test
  • Meet the B1 English language requirement
  • Satisfy the financial and accommodation rules

Other UK Family Visas

UK Spouse Visa Refusal?

Our immigration solicitors specialise in overturning refusals and reuniting couples.

  • Case Review: We will review your case to identify the exact reasons for refusal and develop a strong appeal strategy.
  • Legal Evaluation: Appeal or reapplication, we help you determine what is your best chance of success.
UK Spouse Visa applications and and appeal consultation with clients at Axis Solicitors.

Axis Solicitors Can Help in Your UK Spouse Visa Applications

Your dream of living in the UK with your spouse does not have to end with a Spouse Visa refusal. 

  • Expertise: We are experts in UK immigration law and appeals, with a proven track record of positive reviews and high success rates.
  • Results-Driven: We have successfully helped over 5000 clients secure their cases.

Contact Axis Solicitors today for free initial assessment and a legal strategy to reunite with your loved one.

FAQ: UK Spouse Visa

Yes! A UK Spouse Visa provides you with the unrestricted right to work in the UK. This means you can work full-time, choose any job, work in any sector and even be self-employed. 

This flexibility allows you to pursue your career goals and professional aspirations while living with your spouse or partner in the UK. Whether you aim to advance in your current field, explore new opportunities or start your own business.

While there’s no strict limit on absences for UK spouse visa holders, spending excessive time outside the UK can impact your eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). As a general guideline, avoid exceeding 6 months (180 days) outside the UK in any 12-month period. 

Extended absences should have valid reasons like work, studies, or family commitments, and it’s wise to document these to demonstrate your intention to live permanently in the UK with your partner. Remember, prioritising your UK residency will strengthen your case for settlement when the time comes.

It can take up to 24 weeks to get the decision from the Home Office for the family applications, which includes applying to settle in the UK as the spouse, partner or family member of someone who has British citizenship or is settled in the UK.

Read this blog for more information about UK Spouse Visa Processing Time.

It depends on the Home Office whether they allow you to appeal. The process for appealing is explained in the decision letter you receive from the Home Office.

Learn about your options after UK Spouse visa refused in this complete guide.

Among all visa categories, Spouse visa applications have some of the highest rejections. Therefore, it is recommended to take legal advice from the Solicitors to prepare and submit your application according to the complex requirements of the Home Office to ensure that your visa application is successful.

There is no limitation on the number of dependents you can bring with you to the UK. However, the financial requirement increases with the increase of each dependent.

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