How to Apply for Spouse Visa UK: Your Step-by-Step Guide by Legal Assist

If you’re planning to live in the UK with your partner, applying for a Spouse Visa UK is a crucial step. This visa allows non-UK nationals to join their British or settled partners and build a life together. At Legal Assist, we understand that immigration processes can be daunting, especially when the stakes are so personal. This guide breaks down the application process clearly and helps you avoid common pitfalls.

What is a UK Spouse Visa?

A Spouse Visa UK allows the husband, wife, civil partner, or long-term unmarried partner of a British citizen or someone with settled status to live and work in the UK. It falls under the family visa category and is typically granted for 33 months, extendable later.

You can apply from both inside and outside the UK, depending on your current immigration status.

Who Can Apply for a Spouse Visa?

You must meet specific eligibility criteria. The main requirements include:

• Your partner must be a British citizen or have settled status (Indefinite Leave to Remain, EU Settled Status, etc.)

• Both of you must be over 18 years old

• You must intend to live together permanently

• You must have met in person and be legally married or in a genuine relationship

• You must meet the financial requirement

• You must speak and understand English to a certain level

• You must have suitable accommodation in the UK

At Legal Assist, we assess your situation to ensure all eligibility conditions are properly met before your application is submitted.

Financial Requirements

One of the most significant hurdles for many applicants is meeting the financial threshold. As of 2025, the minimum income requirement is:

• £29,000 per year for applications submitted after April 2024 (subject to future increases)

• Alternatively, substantial cash savings (over £88,500) can be used if employment income is insufficient

Financial evidence may include:

• Payslips and bank statements

• Tax returns

• Employment contracts

Navigating this part of the application can be tricky. Legal Assist specialises in evaluating financial documents to ensure they align with Home Office standards, minimising the risk of rejection.

English Language Requirement

To apply for a Spouse Visa UK, you must prove your ability to communicate in English. You can do this by:

• Passing an approved English language test at level A1 or higher (initial application)

• Holding a degree taught in English

• Being a national of a majority English-speaking country

If you're unsure whether your documents are sufficient, our team at Legal Assist can assess your qualifications and help you book a valid language test if required.

Documents You Need

When applying, you’ll need to submit a number of supporting documents, including:

• Valid passport and travel documents

• Evidence of your relationship (photos, joint bills, communication records)

• Proof of finances (bank statements, payslips)

• English language certificate

• TB test results (if applicable)

Inadequate or poorly presented documents are a common reason for refusal. At Legal Assist, we conduct a full document check before submission to give your application the best chance of success.

Application Process: Step-by-Step

Here is a simplified version of how to apply for a Spouse Visa UK:

1. Gather Your Documents

Start by collecting all necessary supporting documents. This includes personal, financial, and relationship evidence.

2. Complete the Online Form

Fill in the online application form (VAF4A if applying from outside the UK). Be accurate and truthful throughout.

3. Pay the Application Fee

The Spouse Visa application fee is:

• £1,846 from outside the UK

• £1,048 from within the UK

You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £1,035 per year.

4. Book Your Biometrics Appointment

You’ll need to attend an appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph.

5. Submit Your Application and Documents

Upload your documents online or take them to your biometric appointment.

6. Wait for a Decision

Standard processing times range from 8 to 12 weeks. You may opt for a priority service for a quicker decision.

Legal Assist can help you through every stage of this process, from form filling to document uploads and appointment bookings.

Common Reasons for Spouse Visa Refusals

Unfortunately, many applicants are denied because of preventable mistakes. Common reasons include:

• Insufficient evidence of relationship

• Failure to meet the financial requirement

• Incomplete or incorrect application form

• Invalid English language certification

With Legal Assist, our experts thoroughly review your application to reduce these risks. We’ve helped hundreds of clients overcome complex situations and successfully reunite with their loved ones in the UK.

What Happens After You Get the Visa?

Once your Spouse Visa is granted, you’ll be able to:

• Live and work in the UK

• Access the NHS (after paying the IHS)

• Apply for visa extensions after 2.5 years

• Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years

It's essential to keep track of your visa expiry date and maintain all requirements during your stay. Legal Assist offers ongoing support to ensure you remain compliant and plan for future applications, including ILR and British citizenship.

Why Choose Legal Assist?

At Legal Assist, we offer tailored immigration services for individuals and families. Here’s why so many trust us:

✅ Expert Knowledge: Our specialists understand Home Office rules inside-out
✅ Personal Guidance: We handle every application as if it were our own
✅ High Success Rate: We know what it takes to get it right the first time
✅ Affordable Fees: Clear pricing and no hidden costs

Whether your case is straightforward or complex, we’ll support you from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Spouse Visa UK can be emotionally and administratively challenging. But with careful preparation, expert guidance, and the right documentation, your chances of success can significantly improve. At Legal Assist, we’re committed to helping families unite and build a future together in the UK.

If you're ready to begin your Spouse Visa journey, contact Legal Assist today for a free consultation.

Need help with your spouse visa application? Contact Legal Assist – your trusted immigration partner.