As a UK immigration specialist with years of hands-on experience handling spouse and partner visa applications, I understand how important it is to reunite with your loved ones and build a life together in the UK.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the UK Spouse Visa—including eligibility, financial requirements, visa conditions, extension rules, and how to apply successfully.
Whether you’re married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term relationship, the information below will help you navigate the UK Spouse Visa application process in 2025 with clarity and confidence.
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What Is a UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa allows the husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner of a British citizen or someone with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to live in the UK. This visa is designed for genuine couples who want to build a future together in the UK.
The same rules apply to civil partners, and similar rules apply to unmarried partners who can demonstrate a committed relationship of at least two years.
Key UK Spouse Visa Requirements in 2025
To qualify for a UK spouse visa, the applicant must meet the following core criteria:
- Both partners must be 18 years or older
- The relationship must be genuine and subsisting
- You must intend to live together permanently in the UK
- You must meet the financial requirement
- You must meet the English language requirement
Spouse Visa Financial Requirements
The financial requirement is one of the most complex aspects of a spouse visa application. As of 11 April 2024, new income thresholds apply:
| Application Type | Minimum Income Requirement |
|---|---|
| Before 11 April 2024 | £18,600 per year |
| After 11 April 2024 | £29,000 per year (no children) |
| With 1 child (post-April) | Additional increase applies |
| Savings alternative | £88,500 in cash savings (post-April) |
Options to Meet the Requirement:
- Employment income from the UK-based sponsor
- Cash savings (held for at least 6 months)
- Self-employment income
- Pension income
- Non-employment income (e.g., property rental)
Note: The applicant’s own income is only considered if they are lawfully living and working in the UK.
You can combine income and savings in certain cases to meet the threshold.
How to Apply for a UK Spouse Visa (Step-by-Step Process)
1. Check Your Eligibility
Ensure that both you and your partner meet the relationship, financial, and language requirements.
2. Prepare Your Documents
Key documents typically include:
- Valid passports for both partners
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Proof of ongoing relationship (e.g., photos, messages, call logs)
- Proof of accommodation in the UK
- Financial evidence (e.g., payslips, bank statements)
- English language test certificate (unless exempt)
3. Submit Your Application
Apply online via the UK government website. Choose whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK.
4. Pay the Fees
- Visa application fee (approx. £1,846 from outside the UK / £1,048 inside the UK)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year
5. Attend a Biometrics Appointment
Submit fingerprints and a digital photo at a visa application centre or UKVCAS service point.
How Long Is the UK Spouse Visa Valid?
- Outside UK Application: 33 months
- Inside UK Application (Switching): 30 months
- Visa Extension: 30 months
You must apply for an extension before your current visa expires.
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Can I Extend or Renew My Spouse Visa?
Yes. To extend your spouse visa for another 30 months, you must show:
- Your relationship is still genuine and ongoing
- You still meet the financial requirement
- You meet the English language requirement
Can I Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
After 5 continuous years on a valid spouse visa, you may be eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if you meet the following:
- You have lived in the UK lawfully for 5 years
- You pass the Life in the UK Test
- You continue to live with your British/settled partner
- You meet the English language requirement
Does a Spouse Visa Lead to British Citizenship?
Yes. Once you have ILR, you can apply to naturalise as a British citizen—typically after 1 year of holding ILR, provided you meet residency and good character requirements.
Can You Work on a UK Spouse Visa?
Absolutely. A UK spouse visa gives you full right to work, study, volunteer, and be self-employed in the UK. There are no restrictions on changing jobs or sectors.
Are There Absence Limits on a Spouse Visa?
Unlike other immigration routes, there is no strict 180-day rule for spouse visa holders. However, you must demonstrate your intent to live in the UK permanently. Prolonged or repeated absences could raise concerns during extension or ILR applications.
Why Work with a UK Immigration Advisor?
Spouse visa applications are carefully scrutinised by the Home Office, particularly in cases involving financial complexities or long-distance relationships. Even minor errors or missing evidence can lead to delays or refusals.
With years of experience, our immigration team provides:
- Tailored eligibility assessments
- Document checklists and templates
- Full application preparation and submission
- Support with visa extensions, ILR, and British citizenship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for a UK spouse visa from inside the UK?
Yes, if you’re lawfully in the UK on another visa type. If you are unsure of your immigration status, seek expert advice.
2. Does my British spouse need to already be living in the UK?
No, but they must intend to return with you and live in the UK permanently when your visa is granted.
3. Can I work while my spouse visa is valid?
Yes, there are no work restrictions for spouse visa holders.
4. Can I use future income to meet the financial requirement?
No. The income must be current and evidenced over the required time period.
5. Will my visa be affected if I spend time outside the UK?
Short absences for holidays or family reasons are acceptable, but the Home Office may assess your intent to settle in the UK.