The UK Spouse Visa, also known as the Marriage Visa, is a type of UK family visa that allows a spouse or partner of a British citizen or settled person to live in the UK for more than six months. This visa falls under the family visa category and is essential for those who wish to join their partners in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a UK Spouse Visa, both the UK resident and the applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Both partners must be over 18, as British law does not recognize marriages involving individuals below this age.
- Relationship Status:
- The person you wish to join must be a British citizen, a settled person, or someone with refugee or humanitarian protection.
- Your marriage or civil partnership must be legally recognized in the UK.
- The relationship must be genuine and at least two years old to avoid suspicions of arranged marriages.
- Fiancé or Proposed Civil Partners must show proof that they plan to marry or enter a civil partnership within six months of arrival in the UK.
- Financial Requirement: The UK resident must meet a minimum income threshold.
- English Language Requirement: The applicant must demonstrate knowledge of the English language.
Relationship Legitimacy for a UK Spouse Visa
To be eligible for the UK Spouse Visa, you must prove that your relationship is genuine and recognized by UK authorities. This involves submitting accurate documentation as evidence of your relationship. It is critical to provide substantial proof, as any suspicion of a fraudulent relationship will result in the rejection of your visa application.
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Clarification of Terms:
| Term | Clarification |
|---|---|
| Registered Marriages | Submit a marriage certificate issued by a recognized government body. |
| Civil Partnership | Same-sex couples with the same rights as married couples. |
| Traditional Marriages | Must be registered to be legally recognized. |
| Fiancé/Fiancée | Proof of any previous marriages ending and a plan to marry within six months. |
UK Spouse Visa Document Checklist
When applying for a UK Spouse Visa, ensure that you have all the necessary documents. Below is a checklist of essential documents:
- Completed UK Visa Application Form (VAF4A)
- Valid Passport with at least one blank page
- Previous Passports
- Two Passport-Sized Color Photos that meet UK requirements
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Financial Proof showing sufficient income
- Proof of Relationship such as photographs, correspondence, and shared travel records
- Personal Details: Full name, date of birth, and any previous immigration applications
- Criminal Record Certificate
- National Insurance Number (if applicable)
- Parental Details (if applying from outside the UK)
- Proof of Accommodation: A document showing where you will live in the UK
- Biometric Information: Fingerprints and a digital photograph taken at an application center
- Proof of Paid Visa Fees: Receipt confirming payment
Financial Requirements
A critical part of your application is proving that you meet the financial requirements:
- Minimum Income: The UK resident must have a combined income of at least £18,600 per year.
- Additional Income: For bringing children, you need an additional £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each subsequent child.
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Sources of Income That Count:
- Salary earned in the UK
- Cash savings above £16,000
- Pension funds
- Non-work income such as property rental income or dividends
Proof of Financial Means:
- Bank Statements showing income and savings
- Six Months of Payslips
- Employer’s Letter detailing job title, duration of employment, and current salary
English Language Requirements
Applicants need to prove their knowledge of English by:
- Submitting a document or academic qualification taught or researched in English, recognized by UK NARIC as equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Taking an approved English language test and scoring at least CEFR level A1 in speaking and listening.
Exemptions from English Requirements:
- Nationals from specific English-speaking countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, etc.
- Children and applicants over 65 years old.
- Applicants with a physical or medical condition preventing them from meeting this requirement.
How to Apply for a UK Spouse Visa?
Application Steps:
- Online Application: Complete the form VAF4A on the official UK government website.
- Submit Documents: Upload or submit the required documents to support your application.
- Biometrics Appointment: Schedule an appointment for fingerprints and a digital photo.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Depending on the application route, fees vary.
- Attend an Interview (if required): Be prepared to answer questions about your relationship and circumstances.
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Spouse Visa Fee Structure:
- Outside the UK Application: £1,464
- Online or Postal Application within the UK: £993
- Premium Service Application within the UK: £1,583
Processing Time:
- Standard Processing: Up to 12 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
- Within the UK: Up to 8 weeks when applying online or by post, with premium services offering decisions within one day.
Duration and Extension of the UK Spouse Visa
If granted, a spouse visa is valid for 2 years and 6 months. For those applying as a fiancé or proposed civil partner, the visa is valid for 6 months, during which marriage must take place. You can apply for an extension 28 days before the current visa expires, provided you and your partner have been continuously living together.
Applying for a UK Spouse Visa involves meeting specific criteria and providing thorough documentation. Ensuring that you understand the financial, language, and relationship requirements will improve your chances of a successful application. Always check the latest UK immigration guidelines and consult an immigration expert if needed to streamline the process.
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FAQs
1. Can I work on a UK Spouse Visa?
Yes, the UK Spouse Visa allows you to work and study without restrictions.
2. What happens if my application is rejected?
If your application is refused, you may appeal the decision or reapply with additional supporting evidence.
3. How long does it take to extend a UK Spouse Visa?
Extensions can take up to 8 weeks for processing.
4. Do I need to pass a new English test for an extension?
Not usually, but you may need to provide updated evidence if your previous test was below CEFR level A1.
5. Can I include my children in my Spouse Visa application?
Yes, but you will need to meet additional financial requirements for each child.