If you’re looking to bring your spouse to the UK, understanding the UK spouse visa requirements is crucial. The UK spouse visa (also known as a UK marriage visa) allows non-UK nationals to join their British or settled partners in the UK. However, the application process is strict, and missing even a single requirement can lead to a refusal.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Financial requirements for a UK spouse visa
✅ English language requirements
✅ Accommodation requirements
✅ Relationship proof needed
✅ Processing times and fees
✅ Common reasons for refusal and how to avoid them
By the end, you’ll have a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply successfully.
1. What Is A UK Spouse Visa?
A UK spouse visa (Appendix FM Partner Visa) falls under the Family Visa category. It allows married partners, civil partners, or unmarried partners (with at least 2 years of cohabitation) of British citizens or settled persons (ILR or EU Pre-Settled/Settled Status holders) to live in the UK for 2.5 years, extendable leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Key Benefits of a UK Spouse Visa:
✔ Live and work in the UK without restrictions
✔ Access to the NHS (healthcare)
✔ Pathway to British citizenship
2. UK Spouse Visa Requirements (2024 Updated Rules)
To qualify for a spouse visa UK, you and your partner must meet the following strict Home Office requirements:
A. Eligibility Requirements
1. Genuine & Subsisting Relationship
You must prove that:
🔹 You’re legally married/in a civil partnership OR
🔹 You’ve lived together for at least 2 years (unmarried partners)
🔹 Your relationship is genuine (not a sham marriage)
Documents Needed:
- Marriage certificate (if married)
- Photos together, travel tickets, chat logs, joint bills
- Tenancy agreements or joint bank statements (if cohabiting)
2. Financial Requirement (Minimum Income Threshold)
The UK spouse visa financial requirement is one of the most critical parts. You must prove your sponsor (UK partner) earns at least:
💷 £29,000 per year (from 11 April 2024) – This increased from £18,600
💷 £38,700 per year (from early 2025) – New planned increase
Ways to Meet the Financial Requirement:
✅ Employment income (Payslips + bank statements)
✅ Self-employment income (Tax returns + accounts)
✅ Cash savings (Minimum £62,500 held for 6 months)
✅ Pension income
✅ Non-employment income (e.g., dividends, rental income)
Note: If you have children, the threshold increases.
3. English Language Requirement
You must prove English proficiency by:
📝 Passing an approved English test (CEFR A1 level)
🎓 Having a degree taught in English
🇬🇧 Being from a majority English-speaking country
Exemptions apply for those over 65 or with disabilities.
4. Suitable Accommodation
You must show:
🏠 Proof of housing (rental agreement/mortgage)
🛏 Enough space (no overcrowding)
5. TB Test (If Applicable)
Applicants from certain countries must take a tuberculosis (TB) test at an approved clinic.
3. UK Spouse Visa Documents Checklist
To avoid delays or refusals, submit:
🔸 Applicant’s Documents
- Valid passport
- TB test certificate (if required)
- English language test result
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, photos, messages)
🔸 Sponsor’s Documents
- British passport/ILR proof
- 6 months of payslips + bank statements
- Employment letter
- Accommodation proof (tenancy agreement/mortgage statement)
🔸 Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- Divorce certificates (if previously married)
- Child birth certificates
4. UK Spouse Visa Fees & Processing Time (2024)
Application Fees:
💷 £1,846 (Outside the UK)
💷 £1,048 (Inside the UK – Extension/FLR M)
💷 £1,048 (Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR)
Healthcare Surcharge (IHS):
💷 £3,120 (for 2.5 years)
Processing Time:
⏳ 3-12 weeks (standard processing)
⚡ Priority service (5 working days) – Extra £500-800
5. Common Reasons for UK Spouse Visa Refusal & How to Avoid Them
❌ Insufficient Income Proof – Provide 12 months of payslips + bank statements.
❌ Missing English Test – Book an approved IELTS or Trinity test.
❌ Inadequate Relationship Proof – Submit photos, travel tickets, joint accounts.
❌ TB Test Not Done – Check if your country requires it.
❌ Incorrect Application Form – Use the latest version of Appendix FM.
6. What Happens After Getting a UK Spouse Visa?
✔ You can work, study, and live in the UK.
✔ After 2.5 years, apply for an extension.
✔ After 5 years, apply for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
✔ After 1 year of ILR, you can apply for British citizenship.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I switch to a spouse visa from a work/student visa?
✅ Yes, if you meet all requirements.
Q: What if my income is below £29,000?
You can combine savings (£62,500+) or use other income sources.
Q: Can I apply without a lawyer?
Yes, but legal advice helps avoid costly mistakes.
Q: How long does the visa last?
Initially 2.5 years, renewable for another 2.5 years.
8. Final Tips for a Successful UK Spouse Visa Application
✔ Double-check all documents before submitting.
✔ Ensure financial evidence is clear and consistent.
✔ Apply early to avoid delays.
✔ Consider priority processing if urgent.
Conclusion
The UK spouse visa process is complex, but with the right preparation, you can successfully bring your partner to the UK. Follow this guide, meet all financial, English, and relationship requirements, and submit a strong application.