Immigration Rules You Must Know Before Applying for a UK Spouse Visa

Applying for a UK Spouse Visa is a major step for couples who wish to live together in the United Kingdom. But to succeed, you must follow specific immigration rules set by the UK Home Office. Many applications are delayed or rejected simply due to missing documents, financial errors, or lack of clarity in proving a genuine relationship.

In this guide, GMS Immigration – a trusted and IAA-certified immigration agency in the UK – explains the key rules and eligibility criteria that every applicant must understand before applying for a spouse visa.

Key Rules and Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa

Who Can Apply?

If your partner is a British citizen or holds settled status (ILR or pre-settled under the EU Settlement Scheme), you may apply for a UK Spouse Visa.

Eligibility Criteria

• Minimum Age: Both applicant and sponsor must be 18 years or older.
• Genuine Relationship: You must prove you're in a genuine marriage, civil partnership, or cohabiting for at least two years.
• Financial Requirement:
  As of April 2024, the UK-based sponsor must earn a minimum of £29,000 annually or show sufficient savings (usually £88,500 if no income).
• English Language: Pass an approved English test (A1 or A2) unless you’re exempt.
• Accommodation: You must show evidence of adequate housing in the UK.
• TB Test: Required if applying from a high-risk country.

Documents Required

• Valid passport
• Marriage/civil partnership certificate
• Financial documents (pay slips, bank statements, job contract)
• Proof of relationship (photos, call logs, travel history)
• English language certificate
• Proof of accommodation
• TB test certificate (if applicable)

Application Fee & NHS Surcharge

• Outside UK: £1,846
• Inside UK: £1,048
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year

You can check UK Government Official guidelines as well on UK Gov – Spouse Visa Guidance

Reasons for Visa Refusal

• Not meeting financial threshold
• Insufficient evidence of relationship
• Incomplete or incorrect documents
• Failing the English test
• Unclear immigration history

Visa Validity and Extension

The initial visa is valid for 2.5 years. You can extend it for another 2.5 years. After 5 years of living in the UK on a spouse visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British Citizenship.

Additional Key Points You Must Know

Can I Live in the UK if I Marry a British Citizen?

Yes, but marriage alone is not enough. You must meet all the visa criteria and apply formally under the UK spouse visa route.

When Can I Apply for UK Spouse Visa?

You can apply anytime after marriage as long as your partner is settled in the UK and all visa conditions are met.

Referees and Background Checks

You must provide referees who can vouch for your identity, especially when applying for ILR or citizenship later. They must be professionals or people with standing in the community.

What If My Application Is Refused?

You have the right to appeal or request an administrative review if the refusal seems unjust. In case of missing documents or weak evidence, it’s often better to reapply with a stronger case.

Tips for a Successful Application:

• Always double-check all documents
• Prepare relationship proof (photos, messages, travel logs)
• Ensure financial records are consistent and up-to-date
• Take the correct English test from an approved centre
• Seek help from trusted immigration advisors like GMS Immigration

Need Help With Your Spouse Visa?

At GMS Immigration, we offer expert assistance on UK Spouse Visa applications from start to finish. Whether you're applying from abroad or switching inside the UK, our certified team will help you avoid mistakes and boost your approval chances.

📞 Call: 020 8059 0483
📱 WhatsApp: +44 7455 861135
🌐 Visit GMS Immigration