The UK Spouse Visa allows married partners of British citizens or settled residents to live together in the UK. This UK visa guide explains who can apply, what documents are needed, and how the process works in simple terms.
What is UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa (also known as a Partner Visa) lets a non-UK national join their husband, wife, or civil partner in the United Kingdom. It is part of the Family Visa route.
If approved, you can live, work, and study in the UK for up to 2 years and 9 months. You can later extend your visa and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Who can apply for UK Spouse Visa?
You can apply if:
You are 18 or older.
Your partner is a British citizen, has settled status, or has refugee or humanitarian protection in the UK.
You are married or in a civil partnership that’s legally recognised in the UK.
You both plan to live together permanently in the UK.
You meet the financial and English language requirements.
If you are not yet married, you can apply as a fiancé(e), but you must marry within 6 months of arriving in the UK.
UK Spouse Visa requirements
Category | Requirement | Key details & Proof |
Financial Requirement | Minimum income of £29,000 per year (as of April 2024) | - Income can come from salary, self-employment, or certain benefits- You can use cash savings (£88,500+) if relying only on savings- Proof needed: payslips, bank statements, or tax returns- You can combine income types, but rules are strict |
Accommodation Requirement | Must have suitable housing in the UK | - Property must meet health and safety standards- Must not be overcrowded- Can be rented or owned- Provide proof of address or tenancy/ownership documents |
English Language Requirement | Must meet English level A1 CEFR or higher. From January 2026, UK visa applicants must meet a B2 English level (A-level standard) under the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). | - Pass an approved English test, OR- Hold a degree taught in English, OR- Be from a majority English-speaking country- Provide test results or degree certificate |
Documents Needed | Must provide evidence for eligibility | - Passports (both partners)- Marriage or civil partnership certificate- Proof of relationship (photos, messages, joint bills, travel records)- Proof of income (payslips, bank statements)- Proof of accommodation- English test certificate- Certified translations if documents are not in English or Welsh |
How to apply for UK Spouse Visa in 5 steps
Pay the fees & Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Book a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and a photo.
Submit your documents electronically or at your appointment.
Wait for a decision, usually within 12 weeks (outside the UK) or 8 weeks (inside the UK).
After you get your visa
You can:
Work and study in the UK.
Travel in and out of the UK.
Apply for an extension before your visa expires.
Apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous residence.
Common reasons for refusal
Applications are often refused because of:
Not meeting the income requirement
Insufficient relationship evidence
Missing or incorrect documents
Failing the English test
Submitting false or unclear information
The UK Spouse Visa is the main route for couples to reunite in the UK. Applying carefully and providing clear evidence can make the process smoother and increase your chances of approval.
