Spouse Visa

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Overview

The UK spouse visa route, also known as the UK partner visa, is a pathway that enables love and unity, allowing spouses and civil partners of British citizens or individuals settled in the UK to join their loved ones and build a life together in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Relationship Requirements:
  1.  The applicant must be married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person settled in the UK.
  2. The relationship must be genuine and subsisting.
  3. If not married, the couple must have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least two years.
  • Financial Requirements:
  1. The sponsor (the UK-based partner) must meet a minimum income threshold of £29,000 per year. This increases if there are dependent children: an additional £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each subsequent child.
  2. Income can come from employment, self-employment, pension, or savings.
  • Accommodation Requirements:
  1. The couple must have adequate accommodation for themselves and any dependents.
  • English Language Requirement:
  1. The applicant must prove their knowledge of English by passing an approved English language test at least at CEFR level A1 or having an academic qualification that was taught in English and is recognized by UK NARIC.
  • Genuine Relationship:
  1. The couple must provide evidence that their relationship is genuine, such as photos, correspondence, and other documentation proving they have lived together and shared responsibilities.

Application Process

  • Online Application:
  1. The application is submitted online via the UK government’s official visa and immigration service.
  • Supporting Documents:
  1. Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, photos, communication records).
  2. Financial evidence (pay slips, bank statements, employment letters).
  3. Proof of accommodation (tenancy agreement, mortgage statement).
  4. English language certificate.
  • Biometrics Appointment:
  1. The applicant needs to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
  • Decision:

The processing time can vary, but it typically takes around 12 weeks (about 3 months) if applied from outside the UK or up to 8 weeks (about 2 months) if applied from within the UK.

After Approval

  1. The initial visa is granted for 30 months (2.5 years).
  2. The applicant can then apply for an extension for another 30 months (about 2 and a half years).
  3. After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK, the applicant can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
  4. After obtaining ILR, the applicant may eventually apply for British citizenship, subject to meeting the residency and other requirements.

Key Considerations

  1. Maintenance of Status: The applicant must continue to meet the visa requirements throughout the period of stay.
  2. Legal Advice: It’s often advisable to seek legal advice or assistance from immigration specialists to ensure all requirements are met and the application is correctly completed.

This visa route is an important pathway for those seeking to build a family life in the UK with their British or settled partners.

FAQ (Frequently asked questions):

What is a Spouse Visa?

A Spouse Visa, also known as a UK Marriage Visa, allows the spouse or partner of a British citizen or a person settled in the UK to join them in the UK.

Who is eligible for a Spouse Visa?

To be eligible for a Spouse Visa, you must:

  • Be married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with settled status in the UK.
  • Have met your partner in person.
  • Be able to prove your relationship is genuine and subsisting.
  • Intend to live together permanently in the UK.
What are the financial requirements for a Spouse Visa?
  • The current financial requirement for UK Spouse Visas is £29,000 as of April 11th, 2024. This is set to change to £34,500 later in the year 2024, after which it will rise further to £38,700 by early 2025. This threshold is subject to regular modifications by the UK government.
  • Under the current rules, if a couple has children or other dependants, the threshold increases:
  • For the first child, an additional £3,800
  • For each additional child, an extra £2,400
What documents are required for a Spouse Visa application?

You will need to provide:

  • Proof of your relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, photos, communication records).
  • Proof of income and financial stability (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
  • Evidence of accommodation in the UK.
  • A valid passport.
  • Proof of English language proficiency.
Do I need to prove my English language ability?

Yes, you must prove your English language ability by passing an approved English language test at A1 level or higher unless you are exempt.

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