UK Spouse Visa – Requirements, Documents, Process & FAQs

Are you planning to join your partner in the UK in 2025? The UK Spouse Visa allows non-UK partners to live, work, and settle in the UK with their British or settled spouse or partner. This guide will help you understand everything – from the basics to application steps, visa validity, documents, and more.

What is the UK Spouse Visa?

The UK Spouse Visa, also known as a UK Partner Visa, allows married partners or civil partners of British citizens or individuals with settled status to live together in the UK. This visa also permits the holder to work and study in the UK.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for a UK Spouse Visa if:

• You are married to or in a civil partnership with a UK citizen or someone who has settled status (ILR, EU Settled Status, or Refugee Status).

• You and your partner are both over 18 years old.

• You plan to live together permanently in the UK.
  

 Types of Partner/Spouse Visas

1. Spouse Visa (Married Couples)

2. Unmarried Partner Visa (for couples in a relationship of 2+ years)

3. Fiancé(e) Visa (to marry in the UK within 6 months)

Documents Required

Here’s a list of key documents needed for the UK Spouse Visa:

• Valid passport and travel history

• Marriage certificate or proof of relationship

• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS A1 or equivalent)

• Financial documents (salary slips, bank statements, employment letter)

• Accommodation details in the UK

• Photographs of the couple and communication proof

• TB test report (for Indian applicants)

• Signed sponsorship declaration form from the UK partner

Financial Requirement (2025)

Your UK partner must meet the income threshold of:

• £29,000 per year (raised from £18,600 in 2024)

• Or have adequate savings of £88,500 (if no job income)
  
  

This amount may vary if children are also applying.

 How to Apply for a UK Spouse Visa?

1. Apply online via the UK Government’s visa portal.

2. Upload your documents and attend a biometric appointment at a VFS center in India.

3. Await a decision from UKVI.

Visa Processing Time

• Standard Processing: 8 to 12 weeks

• Priority Service (additional cost): Within 30 working days

• Super Priority (limited availability): Within 24 hours

Visa Validity & Extension

• Initial Validity: 2.5 years (30 months)

• Extension: Additional 2.5 years\

• Permanent Residency (ILR): Eligible after completing 5 years on a Spouse Visa

• British Citizenship: You can apply after obtaining ILR and meeting residency and language requirements

 Life After Moving to the UK

Once you arrive:

• Work and study freely – no restrictions

• Access NHS healthcare

• Settle with your partner and apply for ILR after 5 years

• Open a UK bank account, apply for a National Insurance Number, and register with a GP

UK Spouse Visa 2025 – Application Cost

Total cost can range between £3,000–£4,000 depending on services chosen.

Latest News on UK Spouse Visa (2025)

• The minimum income threshold increased to £29,000 in 2025 as part of the UK’s immigration reforms.

• Further increases in salary threshold expected in 2025–2026 (up to £38,700), so applying sooner is advised.

• More scrutiny on relationships to avoid “sham marriages” – documentation must clearly prove the genuine nature of the relationship.

Conclusion

The UK Spouse Visa offers a great pathway for Indian citizens to join their loved ones and start a new chapter in the UK. With the right preparation, clear documentation, and guidance from a visa expert, your chances of success are much higher.

Need help with your UK Spouse Visa?
Our team of visa consultants is here to support you through every step – from application to post-arrival settlement.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions – UK Spouse Visa

1. Can I work in the UK on a Spouse Visa?
   Yes, you can work full-time and study without restrictions.

2. Is IELTS required for a UK Spouse Visa?
   Yes. You need to pass a basic English test (A1 level or higher).

3. How long does it take to get a UK Spouse Visa?
     Around 8–12 weeks for standard applications.

4. Can we apply without meeting the financial requirement?
   No. Meeting the income or savings threshold is mandatory.

5. Can my children join me on a Spouse Visa?
   Yes, they can apply as dependents along with you.

6. What if I get divorced while on a Spouse Visa?
   Your visa may be affected; seek legal advice immediately.

7. Can I travel abroad on a Spouse Visa?
   Yes, you can leave and re-enter the UK during its validity.

8. How long must we have been married?
   There is no specific duration, but you must prove the marriage is genuine.

9. Can I apply from within the UK?
   Only if you're not on a visitor visa or in breach of immigration laws.

10. Is the visa fee refundable if rejected?
      No, application fees are non-refundable.

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