Spouse Visa to Join Your Partner in the UK
We assist with UK Spouse Visas, Fiancée Visas, and Unmarried Partner Visas, guiding clients through every step of the Home Office application process. Whether you are married, engaged, or in a long-term relationship, we offer tailored legal support to reunite families in the UK.
Once you obtain a Spouse visa, you can typically apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain within 28 days before completing 5 years on the Spouse visa. Our immigration lawyer is ready to provide you with step-by-step support and check all the supporting documents to make sure you are meeting all the requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions – UK Spouse Visa
1. Can I apply for a Fiancée / Fiancé Visa instead of a Spouse Visa?
Yes, if you are not yet married and you plan to get married in the UK within six months after being granted the Fiancée/Fiancé Visa.
2. Is Spouse Visa and Dependent Visa the same?
No, the Spouse Visa is for partners of British citizens or those settled in the UK. A Dependent Visa applies to individuals joining someone on a temporary visa. Speak to our immigration lawyer to assess your situation.
3. What are Fiancé(e) and Marriage visit visas?
A Fiancé(e) Visa allows entry for marriage or civil partnership with the intention to switch to a Spouse Visa. The Marriage Visit Visa is for short stays to marry without settling. Switching is not allowed.
4. What are the main requirements of Spouse Visa?
Requirements include a genuine relationship, financial criteria, suitable accommodation, English proficiency, and health checks. See our lawyer for detailed assessment.
5. What evidence can be provided to show a genuine and subsisting relationship?
Marriage certificate, shared bills, joint accounts, photographs, travel documents, and messages can help prove the relationship.
6. What is the English Language requirement for Spouse Visa?
Initial application requires A1 level, extension requires A2, and settlement requires B1. Use only approved test centres.
7. What are the financial requirements for Spouse Visa?
The income threshold is £29,000. No additional income is needed for children. Ask our lawyer about exceptions and documents based on your job type.
8. What are the exceptions for the financial requirement?
If receiving certain benefits like Disability Living Allowance or Carer's Allowance, exceptions apply. Sufficient funds must still be shown.
9. What are the accommodation requirements?
You need suitable housing, ownership or rental proof, and show it isn't overcrowded if shared. Legal housing standards must be met.
10. What are the fees of the Home Office and Immigration Health Surchage (IHS)?
Home Office fees vary depending on the application location: It is £2,064 for applications made outside the UK and £1,407 for applications made inside the UK. IHS for adults outside UK is £3,105 and inside UK is £2,587.50. IHS for children outside UK is £2,328 and inside UK: £1,940.
11. How are Spouse Visa applications submitted?
Applications are online. Biometric data is given at a visa centre. A spouse interview may be required. Check differences if applying inside the UK.
12. How long does the process take?
Standard applications usually take up to 3 months. Priority services may reduce the processing time. However, complex cases or missing information can cause delays.
13. What happens after visa approval?
You will receive a digital eVisa linked to your passport. Physical BRP cards are no longer issued or collected.
14. How long can you stay in the UK?
Initial stay: 2 years and 9 months. With an extension, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years.
15. Can I switch to a Spouse Visa from another visa?
Switching is possible in some circumstances. Our immigration lawyer can assess your eligibility based on current visa status.
16. Can I work if I have a Spouse Visa?
Yes, Spouse Visa holders may work or be self-employed in the UK without needing additional permits.
17. When can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain?
Usually after 5 years, including an extension. You must meet requirements at each stage. Failing to meet criteria may delay settlement up to 10 years.
18. Can I combine income with cash savings?
Yes, income can be combined with cash savings. Please consult our team to help you calculate the minimum savings required to support your spouse visa application if your income is below £29,000.
19. Do requirements differ for self-employed applicants?
Yes, requirements differ and require specific evidence. Contact us to discuss your situation.
20. When should I apply for Spouse Visa extension?
Apply within 28 days before your current visa expires to avoid legal issues or gaps in residence.
21. What is an eVisa?
eVisa is a digital record replacing BRP cards from 31 Dec 2024. You must register to travel in and out of the UK. We can help with your registration.
22. Can I apply for a Fiancé(e) Visa or Spouse Visa if I overstayed in the UK?
If you overstayed in the UK for more than 30 days and later left the UK voluntarily at your own expense, your future immigration applications may be affected. Under the changes to the UK Immigration Rules effective from 11 November 2026, you will be subject to a mandatory 12-month re-entry ban before you can return to the UK.
Our Service for Spouse Visa
Discover our comprehensive Spouse visa services, designed to simplify the application process. When you choose to work with us, you can expect the following:
- Organize a follow-up meeting to delve into more details and assess your unique circumstances after the initial free consultation.
- Receive a client care letter containing all the necessary information and support documents for preparation and uploading to our secure SharePoint.
- Conduct a thorough review of the information you provide and shared, ensuring nothing is overlooked, and notify you of any missing items or additional support documents required.
- Handle the complete application process on your behalf and keep you updated throughout.
- Craft a detailed letter of representation to support your application, which will be submitted along with your application and support documents.
- Arrange an appointment for your biometric data collection, including photos and fingerprints.
- Follow up with the Home Office, providing you with any updates on the progress of your application.
- Ensure complete confidentiality of your information and documents; your privacy is our priority, and we do not share them with any third party.
- Return your original documents once the case is successfully closed.
Spouse visa requires too many specified documents and a follow up for all the updated rules and regulations. We do not recommend submitting your application by yourself.