A UK spouse visa, also known as the “Partner Visa,” is a type of visa that allows non-British spouses or partners of British citizens, settled persons, refugees, or individuals with humanitarian protection in the UK to live and work in the UK. This visa is essential for couples wishing to establish their family life in the UK. It is granted for an initial period of 30 months and can be extended. After five years on a spouse visa UK, the holder can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which is the first step towards full British citizenship.
Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa
The UK has set some of the hardest standards to fulfill to obtain a Spouse Visa. To prove your eligibility, you must provide several official documents that show the genuineness of your relationship.A complete detail about UK Spouse Visa Requirements.
1. Relationship Requirements
Legal Marriage or Civil Partnership: The applicant must be legally married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK. This marriage or civil partnership must be recognized under UK law.
Genuine and Subsisting Relationship: The relationship must be genuine and ongoing. Couples need to provide evidence that they have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage or civil partnership for at least two years.
Intent to Live Together: There must be a clear intention to live together permanently in the UK.
2. Financial Requirements
To ensure that the applicant and their spouse can support themselves without needing public funds, the following financial criteria must be met:
Minimum Income Threshold: The sponsor (the British citizen or settled person) must have an annual income of at least £18,600. This threshold increases with the addition of dependent children:
- First child: An additional £3,800.
- Each subsequent child: An additional £2,400 per child.
Savings: If the sponsor’s income is below the threshold, savings can be used to make up the difference. Generally, the formula used is that savings above £16,000 can be counted towards meeting the financial requirement.
3. Accommodation Requirements
The couple must demonstrate that they have adequate accommodation in the UK. This accommodation must:
- Be owned or occupied exclusively by the sponsor.
- Meet UK living standards, ensuring it is not overcrowded and is in good condition.
4. English Language Proficiency
The applicant must prove their proficiency in English by:
- Passing an approved English language test at A1 level or higher.
- Holding an academic qualification taught in English and recognized by UK NARIC.
- Being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
Application Process
1. Online Application
The process begins with an online application form that must be completed accurately. It is crucial to ensure all information is correct to avoid delays or rejections.
2. Submitting Documents
Applicants need to provide various supporting documents to prove that they meet all the requirements. These typically include:
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, photos, communication records).
- Evidence of income (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
- Proof of adequate accommodation (e.g., rental agreement, property ownership documents).
- English language test results or proof of exemption.
3. Biometric Information
Applicants must attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph. This is usually done at a visa application center.
4. Processing Time and Decision
The processing time for a spouse visa can vary, but it typically takes between 8 to 12 weeks. During this period, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will assess the application and supporting documents. If approved, the applicant will receive a visa vignette in their passport, allowing them to travel to the UK. Upon arrival, they will collect a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
Extension and Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
The initial spouse visa is granted for 30 months. To extend the visa, applicants must again demonstrate that they meet the financial, accommodation, and relationship requirements. After completing five years on a spouse visa, holders can apply for ILR, allowing them to live in the UK permanently. ILR holders may then apply for British citizenship after meeting the residence requirements.