UK Spouse and Partner Visa

Spouse Visa UK Application - Apply for a Partner Visa

A UK Spouse Visa, also referred to as a Partner Visa, enables a non-UK citizen to join their British spouse or partner in the United Kingdom. This visa falls under the Family visa category and is initially granted for 30 months, with the possibility of an extension. If you are not married or in a civil partnership, the Unmarried Partner visa might be a better option.

It is a key step towards obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.

Applying for a Spouse Visa or Partner Visa - Eligibility Criteria

When you apply for a UK spouse visa, you must provide documents demonstrating that your relationship is genuine and ongoing. Additional requirements include meeting financial criteria and demonstrating English language proficiency.

The UK spouse visa requirements are stringent, and the Home Office Entry Clearance Officer (ECO) has minimal flexibility for discretion. This highlights the importance of preparing your partner’s visa applications meticulously and correctly.

As detailed below, the specifics of UK marriage visa requirements can vary, depending on whether the application is submitted domestically within the UK or abroad.

Outside UK

You and your partner must be 18 years old or over.
You must be legally recognised partners and have met each other.
You must plan to live together permanently.
Your partner is either present and settled in the United Kingdom (British Citizen or holds ILR) or will arrive with you to be admitted for settlement.
Adequate accommodation was arranged for you and any dependents, and you can maintain yourselves and any dependents without the need for UK public funds.
Your partner must receive an income of at least £29,000 per year or has at least £88,500 on savings to be able to support you without claiming public funds.
You must satisfy the English language requirement, Level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

Inside UK

You and your partner must be 18 years old or over.
You must be legally recognised partners and have met each other.
You must plan to live together permanently.
Your partner is present and settled in the United Kingdom (British Citizen or holds ILR).
Adequate accommodation was arranged for you and any dependents, and you can maintain yourselves and any dependents without the need for UK public funds.
Either you or your partner or the two of you combined eceive an income of at least £29,000 per year or a minimum of £88,500 in savings to be able to support you without claiming public funds. Different rules apply if you were granted a visa on this route before 11 April 2024.
You must satisfy the English language requirement, Level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) if switching from another visa type or Level A2 if applying to extend an initial 33-month visa granted in the same category.