Key Points
- The route is the family visa as a partner or spouse.
- For most new applications the minimum income requirement is £29,000 per year.
- A first visa from overseas usually lasts up to 2 years and 9 months, then you extend.
- Settlement is generally possible after 5 continuous years on the partner route.
Who can apply?
Both partners must generally be aged 18 or over.
The UK-based partner must hold an eligible status. That can include British or Irish citizenship, settled status, or another status recognised under the family immigration rules.
The applicant must also meet the relationship, financial, English language and other requirements that apply to them.
Relationship requirement
Applicants may qualify through a marriage or civil partnership that is recognised in the UK. The wider partner rules also cover qualifying unmarried relationships and fiancé or proposed civil partner applications.
Both partners must intend to continue their relationship and live together in the UK.
Financial requirement
For most new spouse and partner applications, the current standard minimum income requirement is £29,000 per year.
How you show it depends on where the money comes from: employment, self-employment, a company you direct, a pension, savings or a permitted combination.
English language requirement
Applicants who are not exempt generally need to show the required level of English. On the family route the level rises as you move through the journey: A1 for the first visa, A2 to extend and B1 for settlement.
Accommodation requirement
The accommodation you plan to live in must meet the requirements of the family route. It should not be overcrowded and should not breach public health rules.
Documents
Your document pack should show how you meet each requirement. It is not a generic list of papers, and two couples rarely need exactly the same set.
Application process
- 1
Check eligibility
Confirm that you qualify and identify the right route.
- 2
Plan the requirements
Work out how each requirement will be shown.
- 3
Prepare the evidence
Gather the supporting documents around those requirements.
- 4
Complete the application
Fill in the online form accurately and consistently.
- 5
Biometrics and documents
Give your fingerprints and photograph and provide your documents.
- 6
Wait for the decision
The Home Office considers the application and decides.
What happens after the first visa?
A spouse or partner visa is normally only the beginning of the immigration journey. The route can move through an initial visa, an extension, Indefinite Leave to Remain and, where you are eligible, British citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a marriage certificate enough for a spouse visa?
No. The certificate shows that a marriage exists. The application must also show that the relationship is genuine and continuing, and that the financial, English language, accommodation and suitability requirements are met.
How long does a UK spouse visa last?
A first visa granted after an application from overseas normally lasts up to 2 years and 9 months. An extension normally gives a further 2 years and 6 months.
Can my partner sponsor me if they are not British?
Possibly. A partner who is settled in the UK, an Irish citizen, or who holds certain other recognised statuses can also sponsor. The exact status matters, so check it before applying.
Official Sources
This page is general information, not legal advice. The rules and figures are set by the Home Office and can change.