Moving to the United Kingdom to live with a partner is a significant step for many international couples. For those married to a British citizen or someone who holds settled status in the UK, the spouse visa remains the primary immigration route for reuniting and building a life together. However, the process requires understanding strict requirements, collecting evidence and submitting a compliant application.

This comprehensive guide explains the full 2025 process, eligibility requirements, documents, timelines, fees and next steps after approval. Whether applying from outside the UK or switching from another visa category inside the UK, this resource is designed to help applicants clearly understand expectations and avoid common mistakes.

Couples who require support during the process may review options available through Immigration SP for guidance and document review.

1. Overview of the UK Spouse Visa Route

A spouse visa UK permits a married partner of a qualifying sponsor to live, work and begin the pathway to permanent settlement in the United Kingdom. It falls under the UK Family Immigration category and is designed for long-term relationships, not short stays or temporary purposes.

Once granted, the visa allows the applicant to:

• Live in the UK for an initial 30-month period
• Work without employment restrictions
• Study at college or university
• Use healthcare services through the NHS after paying the immigration health surcharge

After five years on this visa route, applicants may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain, followed by eligibility for British citizenship.

Unmarried partners or engaged couples may first need a fiance visa UK route before transitioning into the spouse visa category after marriage.

2. Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a spousal visa United Kingdom, both the applicant and their sponsoring partner must meet specific requirements.

Sponsor must:

• Be a British citizen
• Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain or settled status
• Hold Pre-Settled or Settled Status under the EU scheme (if applicable)
• Be a refugee or humanitarian protection holder

Applicant must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be legally married to the sponsor
• Intend to live together permanently in the UK
• Meet English language and financial rules

Couples not yet married but in a genuine long-term partnership may apply under the partner visa UK route if living together for at least two years.

3. Proving a Genuine and Subsisting Relationship

The UK Home Office must be satisfied that the marriage is genuine and not entered into for immigration purposes. Because of this, applicants must provide detailed proof of their relationship.

Examples commonly accepted include:

• Photographs from different locations and time periods
• Emails, call logs and chat history
• Travel records showing in-person meetings
• Joint bank statements
• Shared property agreements
• Invitations to events and family statements

Clarity and consistency matter more than quantity. Conflicting information is a frequent cause of delays or refusal.

4. Financial Requirements Explained

One of the most important criteria for a marital visa UK application is demonstrating financial stability. The sponsoring partner must prove they can support the applicant without public funds.

Income can be demonstrated through:

• Employment
• Self-employment
• Pension income
• Certain disability-related benefits
• Cash savings over a specified threshold

If relying on savings alone, they must be held for at least six months prior to the application date. Required minimum thresholds may change yearly, so it is recommended to verify current rules or request guidance through the contact page.

5. Accommodation Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate they will have a suitable place to live once in the UK. Accommodation must:

• Be free from overcrowding
• Meet minimum living standards
• Be owned or rented legally

Proof may include:

• Tenancy contracts
• Mortgage statements
• Letter from the landlord
• Property inspection reports

The Home Office assesses both safety and capacity, especially when children are involved.

6. English Language Requirement

Unless exempt, the applicant must pass an approved English language test at A1 CEFR level for the initial application.

Accepted tests must be issued by an accredited provider and taken at authorised test centres. Exemptions may apply if:

• The applicant holds a recognised English-taught degree
• They are from a majority English-speaking country
• They cannot take the test due to disability documented by medical evidence

Without meeting this requirement, the application cannot proceed.

7. Required Document Checklist

A well-organised set of documents is key to a smooth and successful visa submission. Required documentation may include:

• Valid passports for both partners
• Marriage certificate
• Relationship evidence
• Financial records
• Accommodation documents
• English test certificate
• Proof of sponsor’s immigration status

Documents not in English must include certified translations.

Submitting incomplete documentation is one of the most common refusal triggers.

8. Step-by-Step Application Process

The application process for a spouse visa UK includes several stages.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Applicants must ensure all requirements are met before applying for a spouse visa. This includes proving a genuine relationship, meeting the financial threshold, demonstrating adequate accommodation and meeting English language requirements. Reviewing the latest eligibility rules reduces the risk of delays or refusals.

Step 2: Gather Evidence

Collect and organise all necessary documents such as marriage certificates, bank statements, communication records and proof of accommodation. Ensuring documents are accurate, complete and formatted correctly can improve the application process and prevent requests for additional evidence.

Step 3: Submit Online Application

Complete the official visa form online and pay the required government fees. Applicants must ensure all details match submitted documents, as inconsistencies may lead to administrative processing or delays.

Step 4: Biometric Appointment

Attend a visa application centre for fingerprints and photographs as part of identity verification. Applicants should book their appointment promptly, as availability can differ based on country and season.

Step 5: Submit Supporting Documents

Upload all required evidence through the portal or submit physically, depending on the assigned process. It is important to follow submission instructions precisely, as incorrect formatting or missing files may affect processing.

Step 6: Wait for Decision

Processing times vary depending on the country of application, time of year, and whether priority services are selected. Applicants may use the book-online service if they require document review, guidance or support during the waiting period.

9. Processing Time

Processing timelines depend on whether the applicant is applying from inside or outside the UK.

Factors affecting processing include:

• Case complexity
• Accuracy of submitted documents
• Whether additional information is required
• Service level selected (standard or priority, if available)

Applications requiring verification may take longer.

10. After Approval

Once approved, the applicant will receive a visa vignette (entry sticker) valid for a short period. After arrival in the UK, the applicant must collect their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

Rights granted include:

• Permission to work
• Study
• Live with partner
• Use the NHS (after surcharge payment)

However, the visa holder cannot claim public benefits.

11. Extending the Visa and ILR Pathway

The initial visa lasts 30 months. Before it expires, the applicant must apply for an extension. Evidence must be updated to reflect ongoing relationship and continued eligibility.

After five years in the spouse visa category, the applicant may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. With ILR granted, there is no time restriction on living in the UK and, after meeting residency requirements, the applicant may qualify for British citizenship.

12. Common Reasons for Refusal

Refusals frequently occur when:

• Evidence is missing
• Financial rules are not met
• Documents contain inconsistencies
• English language requirements are not met
• Insufficient relationship proof is provided

Applicants seeking clarity on weak areas may review guidance through the feedback page to understand improvement points before reapplying.

Frequently Asked Questions