Who Can Apply for a Spouse or Partner Visa?
You may be able to apply if your partner is British, Irish, settled in the UK, has certain EU Settlement Scheme status, has protection status, or otherwise qualifies under the family visa rules. You must both be 18 or over and intend to live together permanently in the UK.
- A spouse or civil partner in a relationship recognised in the UK
- An unmarried partner who meets the partner rules
- A fiance, fiancee or proposed civil partner planning to marry or form a civil partnership within 6 months
Main Requirements
The Home Office usually looks at whether the relationship is genuine, whether the financial requirement is met, whether there is suitable accommodation, and whether the applicant meets the English language requirement.
- Relationship evidence should show a genuine and continuing relationship.
- Financial evidence must match the category relied on, such as employment, savings or self-employment.
- Accommodation evidence should show where the couple will live in the UK.
- English language evidence may be needed unless the applicant is exempt.
Spouse Visa Costs
Current GOV.UK fees are £2,064 for an application made outside the UK and £1,407 for an application made inside the UK. Most applicants also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is currently £3,105 for a 2 year and 9 month adult visa or £2,587.50 for a 2 year and 6 month adult visa.
There may also be costs for English tests, tuberculosis testing, document translations, priority services or professional advice.
Documents to Prepare
- Passports and immigration status documents
- Marriage, civil partnership or relationship evidence
- Payslips, bank statements, employer letters, accounts or savings documents
- Tenancy, mortgage or accommodation evidence
- English language certificate or exemption evidence
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a UK Spouse Visa Cost?
The current application fee is £2,064 outside the UK or £1,407 inside the UK. Most applicants also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Can I Apply as an Unmarried Partner?
Yes, if you meet the partner rules. This may include evidence of living together or evidence explaining why living together was not possible.
How Long Does a Spouse Visa Take?
GOV.UK says applications outside the UK usually take up to 12 weeks. Applications inside the UK usually take up to 8 weeks if the core requirements are met.
Need Spouse Visa Advice in Derby?
Tell us where the applicant is applying from, your relationship status, income position and any deadline.