Frequently Asked Questions About the UK Spouse Visa
1. How long does it take to get a spouse visa in the UK?
For a UK Spouse Visa application made from outside the UK, the standard processing time is usually 12 weeks. If you apply from inside the UK and meet the financial and English language requirements, the usual processing time is 8 weeks. Applications that do not meet these requirements and are considered under the private-life route can take significantly longer.
Processing times can vary if UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) needs additional documents, further information or additional checks. Applicants may also be eligible for a faster decision service depending on their circumstances.
2. Can I reapply for a UK Spouse Visa after being refused?
Yes. A person whose UK Spouse Visa application has been refused may be able to make a new application, provided they meet the relevant Immigration Rules and address the reasons for the previous refusal.
Before reapplying, it is important to understand exactly why the application was refused. Common problems can include insufficient financial evidence, failure to meet the English language requirement, inadequate relationship evidence or missing documentation.
A new application should address the refusal reasons rather than simply submitting the same evidence again. In some circumstances, an applicant may also have other legal options depending on the type of refusal and the rights provided with the decision.
3. What is the new rule for a UK Spouse Visa?
One of the most important current requirements is the Minimum Income Requirement (MIR). For most new partner or spouse applications, the applicant and their UK-based partner generally need to demonstrate a combined gross annual income of at least £29,000.
The £29,000 requirement was introduced for new applications from 11 April 2024, replacing the previous £18,600 threshold.
There are exceptions and alternative provisions in certain circumstances. For example, different rules can apply where the UK partner receives certain disability or carer-related benefits, or where an applicant cannot meet the standard financial requirement but may qualify under human-rights provisions.
Applicants should also check the current English language, relationship and accommodation requirements before applying.
4. Is it difficult to get a UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa is not necessarily difficult to obtain if you meet the Immigration Rules and provide strong, consistent evidence. However, applications can become complicated when applicants have unusual financial circumstances, limited relationship evidence, previous immigration refusals or difficulties meeting the English language requirement.
You generally need to demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and meets the relevant requirements, that you satisfy the financial requirements and that you meet the English language requirement unless an exemption applies.
Preparing the correct documents and ensuring that the information across the application is accurate and consistent can significantly reduce the risk of delays or refusal.
5. What is the current waiting time for a UK Spouse Visa?
The standard processing time is currently around 12 weeks for applications made outside the UK. For applications made inside the UK where the applicant meets the financial and English language requirements, the standard processing time is generally 8 weeks.
Applicants should remember that these are standard service times rather than guaranteed decision dates. UKVI may take longer where additional checks or information are required.
Eligible applicants may be able to use a priority service. For eligible family visa applications made from outside the UK, the priority service usually aims to provide a decision within 30 working days.
6. How long can I stay in the UK on a Spouse Visa?
A successful applicant entering the UK as a partner or spouse will normally be granted permission to stay for 2 years and 9 months. After this period, they can apply to extend their family visa, provided they continue to meet the relevant requirements. An extension normally provides a further 2 years and 6 months.
For applicants following the standard 5-year route to settlement, the earliest point to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is generally after 5 years of continuous residence on the family visa as a partner. Time spent in the UK on other visas, or as a fiancé(e), does not normally count towards this 5-year family route.
7. What income do I need for a UK Spouse Visa?
For most new UK Spouse Visa applications, the minimum combined income requirement is £29,000 per year. Depending on the circumstances, income can come from the applicant, their partner or a combination of permitted sources. Certain savings may also be used to meet the financial requirement.
There are special rules for applicants whose UK partner receives certain disability or carer benefits. In these circumstances, the standard Minimum Income Requirement may not apply, although the applicant must still demonstrate that the family can maintain and accommodate themselves without relying on public funds.
8. Do I need to pass an English test for a UK Spouse Visa?
In most cases, applicants need to demonstrate their knowledge of English when applying for a UK Spouse Visa. However, exemptions are available in certain circumstances, including for some applicants who are nationals of specified English-speaking countries, applicants over 65, and people with certain physical or mental conditions.
The English language requirement can also depend on whether you are making your first application, extending your visa or applying for settlement. It is therefore important to check which level and evidence apply to your particular application.
9. What evidence is needed to prove a genuine relationship for a UK Spouse Visa?
Applicants need to provide evidence showing that their relationship meets the requirements and that they genuinely intend to live together permanently in the UK.
Depending on the circumstances, evidence may include a marriage or civil partnership certificate, joint tenancy documents, utility bills, bank statements, evidence of shared finances, correspondence and other documents demonstrating your relationship. If you and your partner do not live together, you may need to provide evidence of regular communication, financial support, time spent together and your ongoing commitment to each other.
The evidence should be genuine, relevant and consistent with the information provided in the application.
10. Can I work in the UK on a Spouse Visa?
Yes. A person granted a UK family visa as a spouse or partner generally has permission to work in the UK. This is different from the fiancé(e) route, where the applicant cannot work or study during the initial six-month period.
11. Can I apply for ILR after being on a UK Spouse Visa?
Yes. If you are following the standard 5-year family route and continue to meet the relevant requirements, you can generally apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 continuous years as a partner on the family visa route.
Meeting the residence, relationship, financial, English language and other settlement requirements is important when applying for ILR.
12. Can my children join me on a UK Spouse Visa?
Eligible children may be included as dependants where they meet the relevant requirements. Generally, children must be under 18 when applying, or have been granted permission as a child before turning 18, and must not be living an independent life.
The exact requirements depend on the child’s circumstances and the immigration status of the parent in the UK.
Important: UK immigration rules and processing times can change. Applicants should check the latest GOV.UK guidance or obtain regulated immigration advice before submitting an application.
Need Help With a Spouse Visa
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