UK Spouse Visa explained
The UK Spouse Visa allows the spouse or partner of a British citizen or settled person to live together in the UK, with the right to work and study, leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years.
Who can apply?
You must be married, in a civil partnership, or have lived together for 2+ years if unmarried.
Your partner must be a British citizen or settled in the UK.
You need to meet financial, language, and housing rules.
You must prove your relationship is real.
You must prove basic English skills (A1 for first visa, A2 for extension, B1 for permanent residence).
Financial requirements
You need a combined income of £29,000 a year. This can come from:
Paid work (at least 6 months with current employer)
Self-employment earnings
Savings of £88,500 held for 6 months
A mix of income and savings
Other income like rent, pensions, or investments
Required documents
Make sure you have these documents ready:
Valid passport(s) and previous passports
Marriage or civil partnership certificate
Evidence of genuine relationship (photos, messages, travel records)
Financial documents (payslips, bank statements, P60s)
English language test certificate
Accommodation evidence (tenancy agreement or mortgage statement)
TB test certificate (if applicable)
Divorce decree or previous marriage dissolution documents (if relevant)
How to apply for UK Spouse Visa in 5 steps
Step-by-step UK Spouse visa application process:
Fill out the online application form.
Pay the visa fee and health surcharge.
Book and attend your appointment to give biometrics.
Submit all required documents.
Wait up to 12 weeks for a decision.
After you arrive: Path to settlement
The journey to permanent residence:
Initial visa: 2.5 years (30 months)
Extension: Another 2.5 years
ILR eligibility: After 5 years continuous residence
British citizenship: After 1 year with ILR
