If you’re looking to join your partner in the United Kingdom, applying for a UK spouse visa is a vital step toward building a life together. At Visa and Migration Ltd, we specialise in helping individuals and families navigate the complex legal and documentary requirements involved in this process.
This article outlines the key steps, eligibility requirements, and expert insights to guide you through your spouse visa application smoothly and successfully.
Who Can Apply for a Spouse Visa?
You can apply for a spouse visa if your partner is either:
A British citizen,
Holding Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status,
With refugee or humanitarian protection in the UK.
This visa falls under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules and allows eligible applicants to live and work in the UK for an initial period of 30 months, with the option to extend and eventually settle.
Key Eligibility Criteria
Before you Apply for Spouse Visa UK,, you must meet several core requirements:
1. Genuine Relationship Requirement
You must prove that your marriage or civil partnership is genuine and subsisting. Evidence such as joint financial responsibilities, communication history, photographs, and shared residence is often necessary. Our team at Visa and Migration Ltd ensures your case is well-documented to satisfy the Home Office's scrutiny.
2. Financial Requirement
One of the most common reasons for refusal is failure to meet the financial requirement for spouse visa UK. Generally, the sponsor must have a minimum annual income of £18,600, with additional income thresholds for dependent children.
We provide expert advice on how to meet this requirement through employment, self-employment, or permitted savings, and help with complex financial documentation.
3. English Language Requirement
Applicants must prove they have a basic understanding of English, usually by passing an approved English test at level A1 or higher, or holding a degree taught in English.
Required Documents for Spouse Visa Application
To build a successful application, you will need:
Valid passports for both partners
Marriage or civil partnership certificate
Proof of cohabitation or continued contact
Evidence of income and employment
English language test certificate
Accommodation details showing adequate living arrangements
As experienced immigration solicitors in London, we help ensure that every document is compliant and correctly presented to reduce delays or refusals.
Application Process: Inside and Outside the UK
You can apply from outside the UK (entry clearance) or switch from another visa category within the UK through FLR(M). Regardless of the route, the application is submitted online and supported by biometric enrolment and document uploads.
Our immigration advice service in London handles both in-country and out-of-country applications, helping you meet all deadlines and procedural requirements with confidence.
Processing Time and Fees
Spouse visa applications typically take:
Standard: Around 60 working days
Priority (where available): 30 working days or less
As of now, the Home Office fee is £1,048 (in-country) and £1,846 (out-of-country), excluding the Immigration Health Surcharge. These figures are subject to change, and our advisers will guide you through the latest costs and updates.
Common Pitfalls and How We Help
At Visa and Migration Ltd, we often see applications refused for reasons such as:
Incomplete financial documents
Lack of evidence for genuine relationship
Incorrect application forms or visa category selection
Our role is to pre-empt these issues through strategic consultation, document review, and precise submission. We also support clients with appeals and administrative reviews if necessary.
Planning Ahead: Visa Extensions and ILR
After 30 months, you can apply to extend your spouse visa, and after 5 years, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Our firm provides full lifecycle immigration support—from first-time applications to settlement and even British citizenship.
Why Choose Visa and Migration Ltd?
As a trusted name in UK immigration services, we combine legal expertise with a personal approach. Our in-depth understanding of the UK family visa system ensures your application is handled professionally and with the attention it deserves.
Comments
0 comment