Bringing a partner to live with you in the UK is one of the most important legal steps a family can take — and one where mistakes are costly. This guide covers everything non-UK nationals need to know about the UK spouse visa process.
Who Can Apply?
The UK spouse visa (formally the UK Family Visa) is open to:
- Married couples and civil partners — legally recognized relationships where both intend to live permanently in the UK
- Unmarried partners — couples who have lived together for at least two years, with supporting evidence
- Fiancé or fiancée applicants — must marry within six months of arrival, then switch to a spouse visa
The UK-based sponsor must be a British citizen, hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), or hold settled/pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
The Financial Requirement
Since 11 April 2024, the sponsor must earn at least £29,000 per year. This can be met through employment income, self-employment, savings, or a combination of these. Exemptions apply where the sponsor receives certain disability-related benefits.
English Language Requirement — Where UK ENIC Helps
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at the following levels:
| Stage | CEFR Level Required |
| Initial application | A1 |
| Extension (2.5 years) | A2 |
| Settlement (ILR) | B1 |
Tests must be taken with a Home Office-approved SELT provider — unless an exemption applies. Applicants who hold a degree taught entirely in English can use a UK ENIC Statement of Comparability to satisfy this requirement, avoiding the need to sit a formal language test altogether.
Relationship Evidence
The Home Office must be satisfied that the relationship is genuine. Strong applications include communication records, travel history, photographs from different dates and locations, joint financial documents, evidence of a shared address, and letters from family or friends.
Processing Times
| Application Type | Processing Time |
| Outside the UK | Up to 12 weeks |
| Inside the UK | Up to 8 weeks |
| Priority service | 5–10 working days |
The Route to Settlement
The spouse visa is granted for 30 months initially, with one extension of a further 30 months. After five years of continuous lawful residence, applicants can apply for ILR. British citizenship follows after a further 12 months.
Absences of more than 180 days in any 12 months can affect ILR eligibility.
If Your Application Is Refused
Common reasons for refusal include insufficient evidence of a relationship, failing to meet the financial threshold, and English-language issues. Options after refusal include administrative review, appeal to the First-tier Tribunal, a fresh application, or judicial review.
Getting It Right First Time
The spouse visa process involves financial, evidential, and legal requirements that must all be satisfied simultaneously. Working with specialist UK spouse visa solicitors helps ensure your application is accurate, complete, and compellingly presented — significantly reducing the risk of refusal.