What is the UK Spouse Visa?
The UK Spouse Visa allows the husband, wife or civil partner of a British citizen or settled person to join them in the United Kingdom. It is one of the most common and emotionally significant visa applications our team at MLC Immigration handles every year.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you are legally married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK, you are both over 18, you intend to live together permanently in the UK, your relationship is genuine and subsisting, and you meet the financial and English language requirements.
The Financial Requirement in 2026
The UK sponsor must meet a minimum income threshold. As of April 2024 this increased to £29,000 per year, with further increases planned as part of the government's immigration reforms.
Income can come from employment, self-employment, pension, or a combination of sources. In some circumstances savings can also be used to top up income that falls slightly short of the threshold.
English Language Requirement
The applicant must demonstrate English language ability at level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference, typically through an approved Secure English Language Test such as IELTS Life Skills, Trinity College London, or LanguageCert.
Proving Your Relationship is Genuine
The Home Office will scrutinise your relationship carefully. Strong supporting evidence includes:
Marriage or civil partnership certificate
Photos together over a sustained period
Communication records — messages, call logs, emails
Evidence of visits to each other
Joint financial commitments
Statements from family and friends
Processing Times
Applications made from outside the UK are typically decided within 24 weeks on the standard service. Priority service is available in some countries reducing this to approximately 30 working days. Super priority service deciding applications within 5 working days is available in selected locations.
What Happens After 2.5 Years?
Your initial Spouse Visa is granted for 2 years and 9 months. You then apply for further leave to remain as a partner. After 5 years of continuous residence you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, and after a further 12 months, British Citizenship.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Failing to meet the financial threshold
Insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship
English language test not from an approved provider
Incomplete or incorrect application forms
Previous immigration breaches
Get Expert Help From MLC Immigration
A refused Spouse Visa application is devastating for families. Our team at MLC Immigration Lawyers in Manchester have an outstanding success rate with spouse and partner visa applications. We review every document before submission and provide a detailed legal cover letter supporting your application.
Call 0161 224 4224 or visit us at City View House, 5 Union Street, Manchester to book your free consultation.
