If you’re in love with someone who lives in the UK and you’re considering marriage, one of the most important things you’ll want to understand is how the UK Spouse Visa process works. I’ve been researching this in-depth because I’m also in a similar situation—I love a man who’s a foreigner living in the UK, and as we’re thinking about marriage, we want to know how the visa process works, what it costs, and how to avoid unnecessary delays.
If you’re in this boat, too, this article will walk you through everything I’ve learned—step by step—so you’ll know what to expect and how to prepare.
Author’s Note:
I wrote this article from a very personal place. I’m someone who has genuinely fallen in love with a foreign partner, and together, we’ve been exploring what it truly means to build a life across borders. This isn’t just about immigration or paperwork—it’s about real love, commitment, and making informed decisions for a future together. I know firsthand how confusing and overwhelming the process can be, so I wanted to share everything I’ve learned in a way that’s clear, honest, and helpful. I hope this guide gives you the clarity and confidence you need as you navigate your own international love story.
Wishing you all the best on your journey ❤️
What is a UK Spouse Visa?
A UK Spouse Visa (also called a marriage visa or partner visa) allows you to join your spouse or partner in the UK if they are a British citizen or have settled status (like indefinite leave to remain). Once you’re granted this visa, you’ll be able to live, work, and even study in the UK.
It’s a major milestone in your journey to building a life together—and possibly even applying for permanent residency later on.
The visa also allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), open a bank account, rent or buy a home, and eventually apply for British citizenship if you stay long enough and meet the requirements.
Who Can Apply for a UK Spouse Visa?
To qualify for a UK spouse visa, you and your partner must meet specific requirements. Here’s a summary:
- You must be legally married or in a civil partnership that’s recognized by UK law.
- Your partner must be a British citizen, an Irish citizen, or have settled status (like Indefinite Leave to Remain or EU settled/pre-settled status).
- Both of you must be at least 18 years old at the time of the application.
- You must prove that your relationship is genuine, loving, and ongoing.
- You should intend to live together permanently in the UK after the visa is granted.
- You and your partner must meet the financial and accommodation requirements.
Minimum Income Requirements – What You and Your Partner Must Earn
The financial requirement is one of the most critical aspects of your application. The UK government wants to ensure that the sponsor (your partner) can support you without needing public funds.
As of now, your partner must earn:
- At least £18,600 annually for sponsoring you alone.
- £22,400 if you have one child.
- An additional £2,400 per extra child.
This requirement applies whether the partner is employed or self-employed. However, if your partner doesn’t earn this much, there are other ways to meet the requirement—for example, through savings.
Meeting the Financial Requirement Through Savings
If your partner doesn’t meet the income requirement through salary alone, savings can help. You’ll need at least £62,500 in cash savings, held for at least 6 months, to apply without using income at all.
If your partner earns less than £18,600, savings can be used to “top up” the difference. There’s a formula for this, so it’s important to calculate accurately.
Documents You Need to Submit – Don’t Skip These!
The Home Office is very strict about documentation. Even a small missing document can lead to delays or rejection. Here’s a more detailed checklist of what you’ll likely need:
- Your passport (plus copies of previous passports if needed).
- Your partner’s passport or residence permit.
- Your marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate.
- Evidence of your relationship over time—chats, photos, emails, call logs, etc.
- Proof that you’ve met in person and spent time together.
- Financial documents:
- Payslips (usually last 6 months),
- Bank statements,
- Employer letter confirming job, salary, contract length.
- Tax returns and accounting documents if self-employed.
- English language certificate.
- TB test results (if required by your country).
- Proof of suitable accommodation in the UK.
How to Prove That Your Relationship is Genuine
This is one part that can’t be faked—and shouldn’t be. The UK Home Office looks for consistent, real-life evidence. Think of it as telling your love story with documents.
The kinds of evidence that work best include:
- A timeline of your relationship: how you met, when you got engaged, etc.
- Photos of you both at different places and times.
- Travel tickets showing you’ve visited each other.
- Chat logs, voice call histories, and email exchanges.
- Joint bank accounts or joint bills.
- Letters from friends or family who know about your relationship.
- Wedding plans or documentation (if you’re applying after a wedding).
It helps to be detailed but not overwhelming. Focus on quality evidence over quantity.
English Language Requirement – Who Needs to Take the Test?
To apply for a spouse visa, you must prove basic knowledge of English. If you’re not from a majority English-speaking country, you’ll likely need to take a test.
Usually, this means passing an A1 level English test from a UKVI-approved test center.
Exceptions apply if:
- You have a degree taught in English.
- You’re over 65 years old.
- You have a disability that prevents you from taking the test.
Always double-check that your test center and test type are UKVI-approved.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Online Application: Start your application online via the UK Home Office website.
- Pay Visa Fees and Health Surcharge: These can be paid online during the application.
- Book a Biometrics Appointment: You’ll attend a local visa application center for photos and fingerprints.
- Submit Your Supporting Documents: Upload or submit all necessary documents.
- Attend Your Appointment: This may involve an in-person interview or document verification.
- Wait for a Decision: Processing time can be 2–3 months. Priority options are available at extra cost.
How Much Does It All Cost?
Let’s break down the costs you should expect:
- Visa application fee (outside UK): £1,846
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): ~£1,035 per year. That’s £2,587.50 for a 2.5-year visa.
- English language test: ~£150
- TB test: Varies, usually between £60–£120
- Document translation (if needed): £50–£300 depending on volume.
- Legal advice (optional): £500–£2,000+
Altogether, many couples end up spending around £4,500–£6,000 when everything is included.
How Long is the Visa Valid?
The initial visa is valid for 2 years and 9 months (if you apply from outside the UK).
You can then extend it for another 2.5 years. After living in the UK for 5 years total, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
When Can You Apply for Citizenship?
After holding ILR for 12 months, you can apply for British citizenship (unless you’re married to a British citizen—in which case you can apply immediately after ILR).
This means that if everything goes smoothly, you could become a British citizen within 6–7 years of your initial visa.
Do You Really Need a Lawyer?
This depends on your situation. If your case is straightforward and you follow instructions carefully, you can apply without legal help.
However, a lawyer can help if:
- Your relationship has unusual complexities (e.g., age gap, cultural differences, language barrier).
- You’ve previously been refused a visa.
- You’re not confident with paperwork or legal terms.
- You want peace of mind.
Many couples hire lawyers not because they have to, but to reduce stress and avoid mistakes.
Common Mistakes That Can Delay or Ruin Your Application
Some errors are shockingly common. Avoid them by double-checking:
- Submitting unclear or incomplete documents.
- Not converting documents to English (if applicable).
- Failing to meet financial requirements.
- Uploading photos that don’t clearly show you together.
- Not following the latest guidance.
- Submitting an outdated application form.
What Happens After You Arrive in the UK?
Once you enter the UK on your visa, your next step is to pick up your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from the post office. This serves as your ID and proof of status in the UK.
From there, you can:
- Work or start a business,
- Enroll in school,
- Open a bank account,
- Register with a doctor,
- Travel in and out of the UK (though you mustn’t spend too much time outside).
Life After the Visa – Adjusting to a New Life Together
Relocating is a big deal. Beyond paperwork, there’s the emotional aspect of adjusting to a new country, culture, and lifestyle. Here are some things I’ve learned from couples who’ve gone through this:
- Give yourself time to adjust: Culture shock is real.
- Communicate more than ever: You’re navigating new roles and routines.
- Plan finances together: Budgeting becomes even more important.
- Find a support system: Friends, community groups, or even online forums.
- Celebrate small wins: Every document completed or milestone achieved is a win.
Final Thoughts – It’s Love First, Not Just a Visa
Let’s be honest—moving to another country is a huge commitment. But if your love is real, it’s absolutely worth the effort. A spouse visa is not just about immigration—it’s about choosing a life together.
Yes, the process is stressful, and yes, it’s expensive. But think of it as an investment in your future with someone you truly love.
So if you’re like me—considering marrying a foreigner you genuinely love—don’t let the paperwork scare you. Start preparing early, do your research, keep your relationship strong, and take the journey one step at a time.
Because at the end of the day, the most important thing isn’t the visa—it’s the life you’re building together.
