A UK Spouse Visa (formally known as a Leave to Enter or Remain as a Partner visa) allows the husband, wife, or civil partner of a British citizen or person settled in the UK to live 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 British citizen or person who has settled status in the UK (ILR or settled status)
Your relationship is genuine and subsisting
You and your partner intend to live together in the UK
You meet the English language requirement
Your partner (the UK sponsor) meets the financial requirement
You will not have recourse to public funds
Financial Requirement
This is one of the most important — and complex — requirements:
From April 2024: The financial threshold is £29,000 per year
Planned increases: The threshold is set to rise in stages to approximately £38,700 (the median full-time salary). Always check the current figure at the time of your application.
The income can come from:
Employment income (the sponsor's salary)
Self-employment income
Non-employment income (rent, dividends)
A combination of sources
Cash savings (if the threshold cannot be met through income alone — currently £16,000 above the threshold)
English Language Requirement
The applicant must demonstrate English language ability at A1 CEFR level (for an initial entry visa). This is typically demonstrated by:
Taking an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT)
Being a national of a majority English-speaking country
Having a degree taught in English
At further leave to remain stage, the level rises to A2, and for Indefinite Leave to Remain it rises to B1.
Genuine Relationship Evidence
UKVI will scrutinise your relationship carefully. Evidence of a genuine relationship typically includes:
Marriage certificate
Evidence of contact over time (messages, calls, emails)
Evidence of meeting in person
Joint finances or shared property
Evidence of knowledge of each other's lives
Photographs together at different times and locations
Processing Times
Standard: Up to 24 weeks (6 months)
Priority: Up to 30 working days
Super Priority: Decision by next working day
Common Reasons for Refusal
Failure to meet the financial requirement
Insufficient evidence of genuine relationship
Failure to meet the English language requirement
Previous immigration breaches
Incomplete or inaccurate application
Given the significant financial and emotional investment in a spouse visa application, professional legal advice is strongly recommended. Contact Temple Gate Solicitors for expert guidance.
Our specialist solicitors write to help you understand your legal rights and options. For personalised advice on your specific situation, book a free consultation.