Long-distance relationships can be challenging—emotionally, financially, and logistically. But when you’re ready to take that next big step and live together in the same country, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming.
If your goal is to bring your spouse to the UK, there’s good news: it’s entirely possible. However, the process involves careful planning, proper documentation, and meeting specific legal and financial requirements.
This guide will walk you through how to bring your spouse to the UK legally under the UK Spouse Visa route, with all the essential updates for 2025.
What is a UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa (also known as a family visa as a partner) allows non-UK citizens to live in the UK with their British or settled partner. This visa is designed for married couples or civil partners—but it also covers unmarried partners who have lived together for at least 2 years.
It falls under the Family Visa category and is typically valid for 2 years and 9 months, after which you can apply for an extension or for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Who Can Apply?
To apply for a UK Spouse Visa, both the sponsor and the applicant must meet certain eligibility requirements.
Sponsor (the person in the UK) must be:
A British citizen, or
Settled in the UK (e.g., ILR, EU Settled Status, refugee status), or
Holding limited leave to remain under specific visa categories (such as a refugee or humanitarian protection).
Applicant (the person abroad) must:
Be legally married or in a civil partnership with the UK sponsor; OR
Have lived together in a genuine relationship for at least 2 years (for unmarried partners).
Intend to live permanently with the sponsor in the UK.
Key Requirements for the Spouse Visa
Here’s what you need to meet:
1. Relationship Requirement
You must prove that:
Your relationship is genuine and subsisting.
You are legally married or in a recognized partnership.
If unmarried, you’ve lived together for 2+ years and can prove it (shared tenancy agreements, bills, bank statements, etc.).
2. Financial Requirement
As of 2025, the UK government has increased the income threshold for spouse visas:
The sponsor must earn at least £29,000 per year (increased from £18,600 previously).
Alternatively, have savings of £88,500 or more if the income requirement is not met.
If using a combination of salary and savings, there’s a formula the Home Office uses.
💡 Note: The income threshold will rise again to £34,500 in late 2025 and £38,700 in 2026. Plan ahead.
3. English Language Requirement
The applicant must prove they can speak and understand English by:
Passing an approved English test at CEFR level A1 or A2.
Or holding a degree taught in English (recognized by UK NARIC/ECCTIS).
Citizens of majority English-speaking countries are exempt.
4. Accommodation Requirement
You must show you have adequate accommodation for both of you (and any children). This could include:
Tenancy agreements
Property ownership
Letter from family if living with relatives
Required Documents
A strong application includes proper documentation. Here are essentials:
Marriage certificate (or proof of partnership)
Sponsor’s passport and visa status
Payslips and bank statements (last 6 months)
Employment contract and letter from employer
Accommodation evidence
English language certificate
Photos, chat logs, travel records (to prove your relationship)
📌 The UK Home Office is strict. Even a small error can lead to rejection. Ensure all translations are certified and all copies are legible.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Gather all required documents.
Apply online via the UK government visa site.
Choose: “Join family in the UK” > “Partner”
Pay the visa fee:
As of 2025: £1,846 if applying from outside the UK.
Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
£1,035 per year (~£2,587.50 for 2.5 years).
Book a biometric appointment at a local visa center.
Attend your appointment, submit fingerprints/photos and documents.
Wait for a decision—usually within 12 weeks, but priority services may shorten the timeline.
What Happens After Approval?
Once your visa is granted:
You’ll receive a 30-day entry vignette in your passport.
Upon arrival in the UK, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a local post office.
You’ll be able to work and study freely in the UK.
After Arrival: What’s Next?
Live together as planned.
Keep records of your cohabitation and financial situation.
In 2 years and 9 months, apply for a visa extension.
After 5 years on the Spouse Visa path, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
What If You’re Not Married Yet?
If you are not yet married, you can apply for a Fiancé(e) Visa. This allows your partner to come to the UK for 6 months to marry you. After the marriage, you can switch to a Spouse Visa from within the UK.
Key points about the Fiancé(e) Visa:
Same financial and English requirements apply.
No work allowed on a Fiancé visa.
Must marry within 6 months of arrival.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Avoid these red flags:
Incomplete or inconsistent documents.
Not meeting the income threshold.
Failing to demonstrate a genuine relationship.
Insufficient accommodation details.
Inadequate English language proof.
If your application is refused, you may appeal, request an administrative review, or reapply—depending on the grounds of refusal.
Legal Support: Do You Need an Immigration Lawyer?
While not mandatory, many applicants choose to use a qualified immigration solicitor, especially if:
Your case is complex.
You have previously been refused.
You’re unsure about meeting financial requirements.
A solicitor can help you:
Prepare and check documents.
Draft a solid cover letter.
Avoid mistakes that could lead to delays or refusals.
Real-Life Tip
“We kept everything—boarding passes, photos, screenshots of chats, letters from friends. When it was time to apply, we had a strong case.” – Amira & James, successfully reunited in London in 2024
Final Thoughts
Love knows no borders—but immigration laws do. Bringing your spouse to the UK is very achievable, but it requires careful planning, honest documentation, and patience. Understanding the UK Spouse Visa requirements and preparing accordingly can make the process smoother and bring your long-distance love story to a happy new chapter—together.
Whether you’re married, engaged, or planning to be, now’s the time to start preparing. Reuniting with your loved one might be just one successful application away.