Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa in 2025: Eligibility, Documents & Process

The United Kingdom is one of the most popular destinations for couples who want to build their lives together. If your partner is a British citizen or holds settled status (such as Indefinite Leave to Remain or permanent residency), applying for a UK Spouse Visa is the first step to living with them in the UK.

But what exactly are the requirements for a UK Spouse Visa, and how can you meet them successfully?

This detailed guide explains everything you need to know — from eligibility criteria and financial requirements to documents needed and the application process.

What is a UK Spouse Visa?

A UK Spouse Visa, also known as a family visa, allows the husband, wife, or civil partner of a British citizen or someone with settled status to live, work, and study in the UK without restrictions.

  • The visa is initially granted for 30 months (2.5 years).

  • You can extend it for another 30 months before it expires.

  • After 5 years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.

Eligibility Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa

To apply, you must meet certain legal and immigration requirements. Below are the main criteria:

1. Relationship Requirement

  • You must be legally married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled person.

  • If applying as an unmarried partner, you must prove you have lived together for at least 2 years.

  • You must show that your relationship is genuine and subsisting, through evidence such as photos, communication records, and shared financial commitments.

2. Age Requirement

  • Both you and your partner must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.

3. Financial Requirement

  • Minimum income threshold: £18,600 per year.

  • If children are included, the threshold increases:

    • +£3,800 for the first child.

    • +£2,400 for each additional child.

  • If your income falls short, you may use cash savings of at least £16,000, held for 6 months.

  • Income can come from employment, self-employment, pensions, or rental income.

4. English Language Requirement

You must demonstrate your ability to speak and understand English by either:

  • Passing an approved English test at CEFR level A1 or higher.

  • Holding a degree taught in English.

  • Being a citizen of an English-speaking exempt country (such as the USA, Canada, or Australia).

5. Accommodation Requirement

  • You must show proof of suitable accommodation for you, your partner, and dependents.

  • This can be a rented or owned property and must meet UK living standards.

Required Documents for a UK Spouse Visa

To prove you meet the requirements, you must provide:

Proof of Relationship

  • Marriage or civil partnership certificate.

  • Photos, chat history, or call logs.

  • Evidence of living together (e.g., utility bills, joint tenancy agreements).

Financial Documents

  • Payslips from the last 6 months.

  • Bank statements showing income deposits.

  • Employer’s confirmation letter (for employed applicants).

Accommodation Documents

  • Tenancy agreement or mortgage statement.

  • Property inspection report if needed.

English Language Documents

  • Approved English test certificate.

  • Degree certificate (if taught in English).

Other Documents

  • Valid passports for both partners.

  • Immigration history (if applicable).

  • Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if required based on your country).

UK Spouse Visa Application Process

The application process involves several steps:

1. Apply Online

  • Complete your application on the UKVI website.

  • Upload documents and pay the application fee.

2. Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

  • £624 per year of your visa.

  • Grants access to the NHS (National Health Service).

3. Biometric Appointment

  • Attend a Visa Application Centre to provide fingerprints and a photograph.

  • These are used for your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

4. Wait for a Decision

  • Standard processing: up to 12 weeks.

  • Priority service: faster decisions available at an extra cost.

UK Spouse Visa Financial Requirements in Detail

The financial requirement is often the hardest part for applicants. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Minimum income: £18,600 (increases with children).

  • Savings option: If your income is low, you can use savings. Formula:

    • £16,000 (base) + 2.5 × (income shortfall).

    • Example: If you earn £15,000, shortfall = £3,600. Savings needed = £16,000 + (2.5 × £3,600) = £25,000.

How Long Does the UK Spouse Visa Last?

  • Granted for 30 months (2.5 years).

  • Can be extended for another 30 months.

  • After 5 years, you may apply for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain).

  • Once you hold ILR, you can apply for British citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much does a UK spouse visa cost?

  • Outside the UK: £1,538

  • Inside the UK: £1,048

2. Can I work in the UK on a spouse visa?

  • Yes, you can work and study without restrictions.

3. Do I still need to meet the financial requirement if my partner is on benefits?

  • No. If your partner receives certain benefits (e.g., disability benefits), the financial requirement does not apply.

4. What if we are engaged but not yet married?

  • You must apply for a UK Fiancé(e) Visa, valid for 6 months, to get married in the UK before switching to a spouse visa.

Conclusion

Meeting the requirements for a UK Spouse Visa is the key to joining your partner in the UK and starting your life together. From proving your relationship and meeting financial thresholds to passing the English language test, every step matters.

With the right preparation and documents, the application process can be straightforward. Once granted, the spouse visa not only allows you to live and work in the UK but also opens the path toward permanent residency and citizenship.

If you’re ready to begin your journey, start by reviewing the requirements carefully and preparing your application early. For extra guidance, consult an immigration expert to improve your chances of success.

OTHER POSTS YOU MAY LIKE