What is the UK Spouse Visa?
The UK Spouse Visa (also called the UK Partner Visa) allows an eligible foreign national to join their British or settled partner in the UK. Marriage alone does not automatically grant the right to live in the UK; a spouse visa application is required.
This visa is initially granted for 2 years and 9 months, with the possibility of an extension leading to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship by marriage.
Who Can Apply?
- Partner must be a British or Irish citizen, or hold ILR, permanent residence, EU Settled Status, or refugee status.
- You must be legally married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term relationship (at least 2 years together), or plan to marry within 6 months of arriving.
UK Spouse Visa Requirements 2025
1. Genuine Relationship
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Proof of cohabitation (bills, tenancy, bank statements)
- Photos, correspondence, messages
2. Financial Requirement
Minimum £29,000 per year (before tax) income, or £88,500 in savings if relying on savings alone.
3. English Language
Pass a CEFR Level A1 test, hold a degree taught in English, or qualify for exemption.
4. Accommodation
Must be suitable, safe, and not overcrowded.
Document Checklist
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport(s)
- Proof of relationship
- Financial evidence (bank statements, payslips, tax returns)
- Proof of accommodation
- English language test certificate (if required)
- Biometric information
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
Important: Any documents not in English require a certified translation. Certling provides UKVI-accepted certified translations.
📥 Download the Checklist (PDF)Fees & Processing Times
- Application: £1,321 (inside UK) / £1,938 (outside UK)
- Health Surcharge: £2,587.50–£5,175
- Super priority service: £1,000
Processing time: 8–12 weeks (standard), faster with priority service.
Extensions & ILR
After 2 years 9 months, you can extend for another 2.5 years. After 5 years, apply for ILR if you:
- Lived continuously with your partner
- Meet financial & language requirements
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
Why Choose Certling?
Many spouse visa applicants need certified translations for marriage certificates, birth certificates, financial records, and legal documents.
- ✅ UKVI-accepted certified translations
- ✅ Fast turnaround times
- ✅ Transparent per-word pricing
- ✅ Secure handling of sensitive documents
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Financial issues: Incorrect payslips or missing bank statements
- Lack of relationship evidence: Not enough photos/messages
- Incorrect translations: Avoid this with Certling
Conclusion
Applying for a UK spouse visa requires meeting financial, language, and accommodation requirements, submitting complete documents, and providing certified translations.