UK Spouse Visa Essential Facts: Eligibility, Process, Costs & Legal Support
If you’re married to or in a civil partnership with someone settled in the UK, a UK Spouse Visa may allow you to join them and build your life together. This guide outlines everything you need to know — from eligibility and the application process, to costs, income requirements, and how our expert solicitors can support you.
To speak to one of our expert immigration lawyers, please call us now on 0330 1337777 or complete an Online Enquiry.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, your spouse or partner must be one of the following:
- A British or Irish citizen
- A person with settled status (e.g. Indefinite Leave to Remain or EU Settled Status)
- A person with refugee status or humanitarian protection
As an applicant, you’ll need to show:
- A valid, recognised marriage or civil partnership under UK law
- A genuine and ongoing relationship
- That you intend to live together in the UK
- That you meet the financial and English language requirements
- That you have suitable accommodation
Financial Requirements
You must demonstrate that you can support yourselves without public funds. Income can come from:
- Employment or self-employment
- Rental income, pensions, or dividends
- Savings (held in your or your partner’s name for at least 6 months)
If income is insufficient, you may rely on cash savings above £88,500. If you or your partner receives certain benefits (e.g. disability or carer benefits), a different test applies.
If meeting the financial requirement would breach your right to family life (e.g. due to a child’s best interests), exceptions may apply. Speak to our team for tailored advice.
Documents You May Need
- Valid passport(s) and visa stamps
- Marriage certificate
- Proof of relationship (photos, messages, travel history)
- Financial evidence (payslips, bank statements, tax returns)
- English language test results (where required)
- Proof of accommodation (e.g. tenancy agreement)
- Tuberculosis test (if applicable)
- Criminal record or immigration history (if relevant)
We’ll guide you through exactly what’s needed and help you obtain, translate, or prepare missing documents.
Application Process
- Preparation – We assess your eligibility and gather supporting documents
- Drafting – We prepare your application and submit a letter of representation
- Submission – Once ready, your application is submitted online with the required fee
- Decision – Processing times vary based on where you apply and whether you use a priority service
How Long Does It Take?
- Standard service: Up to 12 weeks (outside the UK), or 8 weeks (inside the UK)
- Priority service: 5 working days inside the UK (additional fee), or 30 working days outside the UK (additional fee)
- Super priority: Next working day (UK only; subject to availability)
Fees & Costs
Spouse visa application fee:
- Outside the UK: Approx. £1,938
- Inside the UK: Approx. £1,258
- Immigration Health Surcharge outside the UK: £3,105. This covers 33 months, and is calculated at £1,035 a year.
- Immigration Health Surcharge inside the UK: £2,587.50 This covers 2.5 years, and is calculated at £1,035 a year.
- Optional priority/super priority services: Extra fees apply
Fees are subject to change and may vary based on currency exchange rates.
Visa Duration & Renewal
- Initial visa: 2 years and 9 months (if applying from outside the UK)
- Extension: 2 years and 6 months (granted if renewed before expiry)
- Indefinite Leave to Remain: After 5 years on a spouse visa, you may be eligible to settle permanently in the UK
Switching to a Spouse Visa
You may be able to switch from another visa type (e.g. fiancé(e), family court, or dependant visa) from within the UK. In some cases (e.g. visitor visas), you will need to apply from outside the UK.
How Our Solicitors Can Help
Our experienced immigration team can:
- Confirm whether a spouse visa is right for you
- Advise on income or savings routes and what evidence to provide
- Help prepare supporting documents and translations
- Draft and submit your application, with a letter of representation
- Liaise with UKVI and respond to any queries
- Guide you through renewals, appeals, or switching visa types
We offer a range of flexible services tailored to your situation and budget.
Speak to Our Spouse Visa Experts Today
Whether you’re just starting or facing complications, we’re here to help you through every step of the process. Contact us for expert advice, a review of your eligibility, or full application support.
To speak to one of our expert immigration lawyers, please call us now on 0330 1337777 or complete an Online Enquiry.
