The UK Spouse Visa is one of the most important immigration routes for couples who want to live together in the United Kingdom. It allows the husband, wife, or civil partner of a British citizen or settled person to move to the UK legally and eventually obtain permanent residency and British citizenship.
However, qualifying for a UK Spouse Visa is not automatic. The UK Home Office applies strict eligibility rules, and many applications are refused due to missing documents, financial shortfalls, or weak relationship evidence. Understanding exactly what you need to qualify for a UK Spouse Visa can significantly improve your chances of success.
This comprehensive guide explains the requirements, documents, financial rules, relationship evidence, application process, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is a UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa falls under the UK Family Visa category. It allows the partner of a British citizen or a person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to live and work in the UK.
Key Features of the UK Spouse Visa
- Initial validity: 2 years and 9 months (inside UK: 2 years and 6 months)
- Renewable after the first period
- Leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years
- Pathway to British citizenship
- Full right to work and study
Who Can Apply for a UK Spouse Visa?
You may qualify for a UK Spouse Visa if you are legally married to or in a recognized partnership with a person who is:
- A British citizen, or
- A person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), or
- A person with settled or refugee status in the UK
The relationship must be genuine, subsisting, and legally recognized.
Relationship Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa
One of the most critical requirements is proving your relationship is genuine.
1. Legal Marriage or Partnership
You must be:
- Legally married, or
- In a civil partnership recognized under UK law
If married abroad, the marriage must be legally valid in the country where it took place.
2. Genuine and Ongoing Relationship
The Home Office must be satisfied that your relationship is real and not solely for immigration purposes.
Accepted Evidence Includes:
- Marriage certificate
- Photos together over time
- Travel records
- Call logs, chat history, emails
- Joint bank accounts
- Joint tenancy agreements
- Statements from family or friends
The stronger and more consistent your evidence, the better your chances.
Age Requirement
Both partners must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. Applications involving underage partners are automatically refused.
Financial Requirement (Minimum Income Threshold)
The financial requirement is one of the most common reasons for UK Spouse Visa refusals.
Minimum Income Requirement
- £18,600 per year for a couple
- Additional income required if children are included
Who Must Meet the Requirement?
The UK-based sponsor usually meets the income threshold, but in some cases, combined income may be considered.
Acceptable Sources of Income
- Employment salary
- Self-employment income
- Pension income
- Rental income
- Cash savings
Using Cash Savings
If you do not meet the income threshold, you may qualify using savings:
- Minimum savings required: £62,500
- Savings must be held for at least 6 months
Accommodation Requirement
You must prove that you have adequate accommodation in the UK without overcrowding.
Acceptable Accommodation Evidence
- Tenancy agreement
- Mortgage documents
- Property inspection report
- Letter from landlord or homeowner
The accommodation must comply with UK housing standards.
English Language Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate basic English proficiency unless exempt.
Accepted English Language Tests
- IELTS Life Skills A1 (for first application)
- IELTS Life Skills A2 (for extension)
Exemptions
You may be exempt if you:
- Are from an English-speaking country
- Have a degree taught in English
- Are over a certain age
- Have a medical condition preventing testing
Immigration Status of the Sponsor
The UK-based partner must have legal status, such as:
- British citizenship
- Indefinite Leave to Remain
- Settled or refugee status
Temporary visa holders generally cannot sponsor a spouse.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Requirement
Applicants from certain countries must submit a TB test certificate from an approved clinic.
Failure to provide this document can result in refusal.
Documents Needed for a UK Spouse Visa
Proper documentation is essential.
Applicant Documents
- Valid passport
- Passport photos
- Marriage certificate
- English test certificate
- TB test certificate (if required)
Sponsor Documents
- Proof of British citizenship or ILR
- Financial documents
- Accommodation proof
Relationship Evidence
- Photos
- Communication records
- Joint documents
All documents must be genuine and properly translated if not in English.
How to Apply for a UK Spouse Visa
Step 1: Complete Online Application
Apply through the official UK visa application portal.
Step 2: Pay Fees
- Visa application fee
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
Upload documents online or at a visa center.
Step 4: Biometric Appointment
Provide fingerprints and photographs.
Step 5: Decision Waiting Period
Processing times typically range from 8 to 12 weeks.
Common Reasons UK Spouse Visa Applications Are Refused
- Insufficient income evidence
- Weak relationship proof
- Incomplete documents
- Incorrect information
- Failing the English requirement
Understanding and addressing these issues greatly increases approval chances.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Approval
- Submit clear and well-organized documents
- Ensure financial evidence meets Home Office rules
- Provide detailed relationship timelines
- Avoid inconsistencies
- Seek professional advice if unsure
Preparation is key.
Length of Stay and Extension
The initial visa is granted for 2 years and 9 months. Before it expires, you must apply for an extension.
Extension Requirements
- Continue meeting financial requirements
- Ongoing genuine relationship
- English test at A2 level
Pathway to Permanent Residency (ILR)
After 5 years on the UK Spouse Visa route, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
ILR Requirements
- Continuous residence
- Passing the Life in the UK Test
- No serious immigration breaches
After ILR, you may apply for British citizenship.
Can You Work on a UK Spouse Visa?
Yes. A UK Spouse Visa allows unrestricted work rights, including:
- Full-time employment
- Self-employment
- Business ownership