UK Spouse & Partner Visa: The Complete Guide

You can generally apply if you are the partner of someone who is a British citizen, settled in the UK (with ILR or settled status), or a refugee/with humanitarian protection. Both partners must be aged 18 or over.

• Married couples and civil partners
• Unmarried partners who have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years
• Fiancé(e)s and proposed civil partners (entry clearance to marry, then switch)

You must show your relationship is genuine, subsisting and that you intend to live together permanently in the UK. Evidence typically includes cohabitation documents, communication history, photographs over time, joint finances and statements from both partners.

For unmarried partners, evidence of two years' cohabitation is essential — we help you assemble a clear, chronological evidence bundle.

Most applicants must meet a minimum income requirement — currently £29,000 per year (the government has signalled further increases, so we confirm the figure that applies to you). This can be met through:

• Employment income (salaried or non-salaried)
• Self-employment or director's income
• Cash savings (held for 6 months, using the savings formula)
• Pension, or a permitted combination of sources

Where a sponsor receives certain disability benefits or is a carer, the lower 'adequate maintenance' test may apply instead. Getting the evidence format exactly right is critical.

You must usually prove English at A1 (CEFR) for the initial application, A2 to extend, and B1 for settlement — through an approved test, a degree taught in English, or by being a national of a majority English-speaking country. Some applicants are exempt on age or medical grounds.

You must show you have adequate accommodation in the UK that you own or occupy exclusively, without overcrowding or breaching public health rules. A property inspection report can help evidence this.

A typical application includes: passports, relationship and cohabitation evidence, financial documents in the required format, English test or exemption evidence, accommodation evidence, and a tailored covering letter of representations. We provide a personalised checklist so nothing is missed.

You apply online, pay the Home Office fee and Immigration Health Surcharge, and enrol your biometrics. Processing is typically around 8–12 weeks (entry clearance) or up to 8 weeks (in-country), with priority services often available. We prepare and submit everything and liaise with the Home Office on your behalf.

The route is normally 2.5 years' leave, extended for a further 2.5 years, then Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years (subject to meeting the requirements and the Life in the UK Test). After holding ILR, you may be eligible for British citizenship — often after a further 12 months, or sooner as the spouse of a British citizen.