A spouse visa allows non-UK residents who are married or in a civil partnership with someone who is settled in the UK to emigrate to the country to be with their partner. Once a UK spouse visa has been granted that person is eligible to work or study in the UK.
Visa Requirements:
- The applicant and their partner must both be 18 years old or over
- They must have met each other and be legally married
- Both parties must plan on living together permanently
- They must have enough money to support themselves (and any dependants) without claiming public funds
- The sponsoring partner must earn over £18,600 per year or have enough savings to be able to sponsor their partner
- They must have suitable accommodation for themselves, their spouse and any dependents
- English language requirements must be met
How to apply
You can apply for a spouse visa from overseas or from within the UK.
If you are already in the UK on a fiancé visa, work visa, or student visa valid for more than six months, you may be able to switch into a spouse visa.
How long does it last?
If applying from overseas, a spouse visa is initially issued for 33 months. If you are applying from within the UK a spouse visa is issued for a period of 30 months.