Spouse and Partner Visas: Joining Your Loved One in the UK
The Spouse and Partner Visas allow non-UK citizens to join their British citizen or settled partner in the UK. These visas are designed for spouses, civil partners, or long-term unmarried partners of UK citizens or those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Spouse or Partner Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Relationship Requirement: You must be married, in a civil partnership, or in a long-term relationship (for at least 2 years) with a British citizen, someone with ILR, or settled status.
- Financial Requirement: You and your partner must meet a minimum combined income threshold, which increases if you have dependent children.
- English Language Requirement: You must prove your knowledge of English by passing an approved English language test (unless you are from an English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English).
- Genuine Relationship: You need to show proof that your relationship is genuine, which can include evidence of living together, shared finances, and communication.
What Documents Are Required?
To apply for a Spouse or Partner Visa, you’ll need to submit the following documents:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Proof of relationship: Marriage or civil partnership certificate, or evidence of living together for at least 2 years.
- Proof of income: Payslips, bank statements, or a letter from your employer.
- English language certificate, if applicable.
- Accommodation details: Proof that you have a suitable place to live in the UK.
- Tuberculosis test (if applicable, based on the country you're applying from).
How Long Can You Stay on a Spouse or Partner Visa?
The Spouse or Partner Visa is initially granted for 2.5 years (30 months). After this period, you can apply for an extension for another 2.5 years.
After 5 years of living in the UK on a Spouse or Partner Visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which leads to permanent residency. Once you have ILR, you can apply for British citizenship after 12 months.
After 5 years of living in the UK on a Spouse or Partner Visa, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which leads to permanent residency. Once you have ILR, you can apply for British citizenship after 12 months.
Can You Work or Study on a Spouse or Partner Visa?
Yes, the Spouse or Partner Visa allows you to:
- Work full-time in the UK.
- Study at a UK university or educational institution.
- There are no restrictions on employment or study, making this visa flexible for partners seeking career or educational opportunities in the UK.
Applying for the Spouse or Partner Visa
Here is a breakdown of the visa fees:
- Complete the Online Application: Submit your visa application on the gov.uk website.
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required documents and evidence of your relationship and finances.
- Attend a Biometric Appointment: Book and attend a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
- Wait for the Decision: It usually takes 8 to 12 weeks to receive a decision. Priority services are available for faster processing.
Conclusion
The Spouse and Partner Visa is a straightforward way to join your partner in the UK, allowing you to live, work, and build a future together. With the right documentation and proof of a genuine relationship, the process can be smooth and efficient.
If you need guidance through the application process, our team is here to help ensure your application is successful.
If you need guidance through the application process, our team is here to help ensure your application is successful.
