Spouse Visa UK: Everything You Need to Know
The UK Spouse Visa is a crucial route for partners of British citizens or settled individuals who wish to live together in the UK. This visa is designed for non-UK residents who are married to or in a civil partnership with someone residing in the UK. It allows them to join their partner and eventually apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or even British citizenship. Here’s everything you need to know about applying for a UK Spouse Visa.
What is a UK Spouse Visa?
The Spouse Visa UK, also known as the spouse visa uk, permits the non-UK partner of a British citizen or a person with settled status (such as indefinite leave to remain) to live and work in the UK. This visa typically lasts for 30 months, after which it can be extended. After residing in the UK for a certain period (usually 5 years), applicants can apply for ILR and eventually naturalize as a British citizen.
Key Eligibility Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa
To successfully apply for a spouse visa, you must meet the following criteria:

Genuine Relationship: You must prove that your relationship with your partner is genuine and ongoing. This is done by providing marriage or civil partnership certificates, communication records, photographs, and evidence of living together (if applicable).

Financial Requirement: The sponsoring partner must earn at least £18,600 per year (or more if dependent children are involved) to sponsor their spouse. If they do not meet this threshold, savings can be used to supplement income.

Accommodation: You must show that you have adequate accommodation in the UK for both you and your spouse without relying on public funds.

English Language Proficiency: The applicant must pass an English language test at A1 level (speaking and listening) unless they come from an English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English.

Good Character and Health: The applicant must prove they have no criminal convictions that could result in a refusal and provide a tuberculosis (TB) test if applicable.

Required Documents for the UK Spouse Visa
When applying for a UK Spouse Visa, ensure you have the following documents ready:

Passport and travel history of both partners
Marriage or civil partnership certificate
Proof of income of the sponsoring partner (e.g., payslips, bank statements)
Proof of accommodation in the UK
English language test certificate