UK Spouse Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The UK Spouse Visa remains one of the most popular visas for individuals looking to move to the UK. Despite the consistent demand for this visa, the Home Office has not made significant changes to the rules in recent years, and it is unlikely that they will do so in the future. This article addresses some common questions that applicants have about the UK Spouse Visa application, and it is just as relevant today as when it was first published.
If you require Immigration Advice Services or help with an immigration problem, please contact +441614644140 or email us at info@deluxelawchambers.co.uk for fast, professional, and affordable immigration advice from our highly experienced UK immigration lawyers. You can book an appointment online for a detailed immigration consultation.
What is a spouse visa?
Also known as a UK marriage visa, a spouse visa allows married partners of UK citizens to immigrate to the UK because they are married to someone who is ‘settled in the UK’ – i.e. a person who is ordinarily resident in the UK and has no immigration restrictions on how long they can stay in the UK.
What is the new rule for UK spouse visa?
Starting on April 11th, 2024, the Spouse Visa Financial requirement has been raised to £29,000 from £18,600. This means that in order to sponsor your foreign partner for any UK family visa route, you must now meet this new financial.
How much money do you need for a UK spouse visa?
Financial requirements if you’re applying as a partner or spouse. If you apply for a family visa as a partner, you and your partner usually need to prove that your combined income is at least £29,000 a year.
Can my partner work on a spouse visa UK?
Yes, an applicant on a spouse visa can work in the UK. As a Spouse Visa holder, you can choose whether you wish to be employed on a part-time or full-time basis, or be self-employed.
Is a UK spouse visa difficult?
The process of applying for a Spouse Visa can be complex and lengthy. Regrettably, the Home Office often rejects many Spouse Visa applications, causing distress as nobody wants to be separated from their loved ones.
What evidence do you need for a spouse visa?
You can use things like: a marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate. a tenancy agreement, utility bills or council tax bills confirming that you live at the same address or pay bills together. a bank statement from a joint bank account, or confirming that you live at the same address.
Can I add my child/children to my spouse visa application?
Yes, you can add your children to your partner and spouse visa application. There will be no longer additional income requirement if you add your children to the spouse visa application.
UK spouse visa fee / cost in 2024
The UK spouse visa application fee in 2024 is £1,048 if your application is made inside the UK and £1,846 if your application is made outside the UK. Other costs include Immigration Healthcare Surcharge £1,035 for each year. The super priority service charge is £1,000 if you want to get a decision by the end of the next working day.
How long can I stay outside of the UK on a spouse visa?
Under the current immigration rules, there is no limit on the length of any absence if you hold a partner and spouse visa. This is because family visa holders are exempt from the 180 day absence period rule to gain ILR. That said, it is important to understand that when applying for a partner and spouse visa, you state your intention to live with your partner in the UK. Any prolonged absence may jeopardise your visa extension or ILR application.
Can I claim benefits if I hold a spouse visa?
No, a spouse visa holder is not able to claim state benefits, including universal credit, tax credits, or housing allowance.
How do I make a UK Spouse visa application?
Applications in the spouse visa category are made using an online application form. There is a different application form, depending on whether you are intending to apply from inside the UK or abroad. You will need to complete Partner Route application form from outside the UK and FLR M application form inside the UK.
Before you apply for a UK spouse visa you should check the correct application forms for your individual circumstances with an immigration lawyer.
What are the required documents for a UK Spouse visa application?
To successfully apply for a UK spouse visa, you must meet the following criteria as set by UK Visas and Immigration:
- Your partner is British or holds leave in one of the specified categories
- Both you and your partner are over 18 years old
- You have met in person, are legally married or in a civil partnership, and have a genuine intention to live together permanently
- Any previous relationships have ended permanently
- You will be financially supported in the UK without relying on public funds
- There is adequate accommodation for you and any dependents
- You have the necessary level of English language skills
To demonstrate your ability to be financially supported in the UK without public funds, you must meet a financial requirement of at least £29,000 per year, with additional funds required if you have non-British or settled children. This requirement can be met through various sources.
How long will it take the Home Office to decide my UK Spouse visa application?
According to the Home Office, settlement applications, including Spouse visas and other categories under Appendix FM, made outside of the UK are decided within 12 weeks (3 months) for 95% of cases and within 24 weeks (6 months) for all cases. Some application centres offer priority services for Spouse visa applicants to expedite the processing time.
For those applying in the UK, there is a 24 hour service available. Priority services will incur an additional cost of £1000.
Can you renew or extend a Partner Visa?
You can renew and/or extend your visa for another 2 years and 6 months – if your current status has not expired. After you have lived in the UK for a total of 5 years, you can apply for settled status (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
What are the requirements for extension of UK Partner Visa?
Applicants who wish to extend their stay in the UK as spouses of British citizens or individuals settled in the UK must prove that their relationship is still genuine and subsisting. They must also demonstrate that they still meet the financial and English language.
Can I get a British passport if I marry a British citizen?
Yes, you can eventually apply for a British passport, however you are required to demonstrate that you meet the eligibility criteria.
What is indefinite leave to remain?
An Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is an immigration status granted to a person who does not hold the right of abode in the UK, but who has been admitted to the UK without any time limit on his and who is free to take up employment or study, without restriction.
Can spouse bring their children in UK of a without IELTS study visa?
You are not required to show the English language required for children below 18 years of age.
Free UK Spouse Visa Advice
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