What Is a UK Spouse Visa?

A UK Spouse Visa allows a non-British national to live in the UK with their British or settled partner. It’s part of the Family Route under the UK immigration system and is valid for 2.5 years (30 months), with the possibility of extension and settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).

This visa applies if:

• You’re married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status

• You plan to live together permanently in the UK

Who Can Apply in 2025?

To be eligible, you must meet the following conditions:

• You and your partner must both be over 18

• You must be legally married or in a civil partnership (or have lived together for at least 2 years)

• Your partner must be either:
  – A British citizen
  – A person with indefinite leave to remain (ILR)
  – An EU/EEA national with settled/pre-settled status

• You must plan to live together permanently in the UK

• You must meet the financial, English, and accommodation requirements

Financial Requirements (2025 Thresholds)

The sponsor must earn a minimum of £29,000 per year (as updated in April 2024). This requirement will rise again to £34,500 in late 2025, so early applications are encouraged.

Other financial options include:

• Self-employment income

• Savings over £88,500 (as an alternative to income)

• Combining salary and savings (specific formula applies)

• Some benefits (like PIP or Carer’s Allowance) may exempt the applicant from income rules — known as “adequate maintenance” route

English Language Requirement

The applicant must prove they can speak and understand English to at least CEFR Level A1 (for first-time spouse visas). This can be met by:

• Passing an approved English test

• Holding a degree taught in English

• Being from a majority English-speaking country (e.g., USA, Australia)

You’ll need to provide a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider.

Accommodation Requirements

You must show that you and your partner will have suitable accommodation in the UK without needing public funds. This includes:

• Renting or owning a property

• A written statement from a landlord/family member (if staying with others)

• Proof of space — no overcrowding per Housing Act standards

Application Process (Inside & Outside the UK)

You can apply from:

• Outside the UK (entry clearance application)

• Inside the UK (if switching from a different visa)

Steps:

1. Prepare documents (IDs, marriage certificate, payslips, proof of relationship)

2. Complete the online application form

3. Pay the fee (£1,846 outside the UK or £1,048 inside) + IHS surcharge

4. Book a biometric appointment

5. Submit documents and wait for decision (usually 8–12 weeks standard, or faster with Priority)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Incomplete financial documents (e.g., missing payslips or bank statements)

❌ Using unofficial translations for non-English documents

❌ Incorrect English test provider

❌ Outdated or inconsistent relationship evidence (photos, messages, call logs)

❌ Overstaying a previous visa without proper switching

A refused application not only costs time and money — it can impact future immigration options.

Can I Extend a Spouse Visa or Apply for ILR?

Yes. After the first 2.5 years, you can apply for an extension for another 2.5 years. After 5 years of continuous residence, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and eventually British citizenship.

You must still meet the relationship, financial, and English language requirements at each stage.

How Our Team Can Help

We understand how stressful and time-consuming this process can be. At [Insert your business name], we assist with:

✅ Document checking
✅ Application form preparation
✅ Cover letter drafting
✅ Help booking biometric appointments
✅ Communication with the Home Office where necessary

Whether you’re applying for the first time or extending your visa, our experienced immigration team is here to guide you every step of the way.

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📞 Contact us today or book a consultation to check your eligibility.