If you’re reading this, chances are you or someone close to you is thinking about applying for a UK Spouse Visa. First of all, congratulations — whether you're newly married or planning a reunion with your partner, this is a big and exciting step. That said, I completely get how intimidating the process can feel. Immigration paperwork isn’t exactly known for being simple, right?
I’ve had so many people come to me asking the same question: “Where do I even start?” So, let’s break it down together — no legal jargon, no overwhelming forms. Just a clear, human conversation about what you need to know when applying for a UK Spouse Visa.
What Exactly Is a UK Spouse Visa?
In a nutshell, a UK Spouse Visa lets you live in the UK with your husband, wife, or civil partner if they’re a British citizen or someone who has settled status here. The initial visa is valid for 2 years and 9 months, and yes — you can extend it. Once you’ve been here for five years on this route, you may be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, and later even British citizenship. So, it's not just a visit — this is about building a life together.
Can You Apply?
Let’s talk about who qualifies. To apply for a Spouse Visa, you and your partner must:
Be 18 or older
Be legally married or in a civil partnership that’s recognised in the UK
Plan to live together permanently
Have your partner based in the UK as a British citizen, or someone with settled, pre-settled, or refugee status
Meet the financial requirements
Be able to show a basic level of English language skills
The Financial Side (Yes, It’s a Big One)
This part can be tricky. The UK-based partner needs to be earning at least £18,600 a year before tax. If you’ve got kids who aren’t British citizens, this amount goes up:
£22,400 for one child
Add £2,400 for every additional child
Not quite hitting that income? Don’t panic — savings can help. If you’ve got over £62,500 in cash savings (held for 6+ months), that can be used instead.
What About English?
Unless you’re from an English-speaking country, you’ll need to prove you can speak and understand basic English. Most people take a Level A1 English test from an approved provider. If you’ve got a degree taught in English or you're exempt for age or medical reasons, you might not need the test — but it's always best to double-check.
Documents Checklist (Let’s Keep It Simple)
Here's what most people need to gather:
Valid passport(s)
Your marriage certificate
Proof your relationship is real — photos, travel history, messages, etc.
Proof of meeting the financial requirement (like payslips, bank statements, employment letters)
English language certificate
Evidence of accommodation in the UK (like a tenancy agreement)
Also, make sure everything is in English — if not, you'll need a certified translation.
The Application Process — Step by Step
Here’s what applying typically looks like:
Apply online through the UK Government website.
Pay the visa fee (currently around £1,538) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (around £1,872).
Book a biometrics appointment to give your fingerprints and photo.
Upload your documents or take them to your appointment.
Wait for a decision. Standard processing time is about 2–3 months, though faster services are available if you’re in a rush.
After You’re Approved
You’ll get a 30-day entry visa sticker (called a vignette) in your passport. Once you're in the UK, you’ll need to collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a local post office. That card proves your right to stay, work, and live in the UK.
Can You Work or Study?
Absolutely — and this is one of the best parts. The UK Spouse Visa gives you the freedom to work, study, or start your own business. It’s a great way to start settling in, both personally and professionally.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one thing I want you to take away from this, it’s that you don’t have to go through this alone. The UK Spouse Visa process can be time-consuming and, yes, sometimes frustrating — but it’s not impossible. With the right guidance and a bit of patience, you’ll be stepping off that plane and into your new life together in no time.
At Farani Taylor Solicitors, we’ve helped thousands of couples successfully navigate this very journey. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve hit a roadblock, our immigration specialists are here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
You can visit us at any of our three branches:
Let’s make your next chapter a reality. We're just a phone call or a visit away.
