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United Kingdom

UK Spouse & Partner Visa 2026

Join your British citizen or settled partner in the United Kingdom. The UK Spouse Visa allows you to live, work, and study in the UK with a clear pathway to permanent settlement (ILR) and British citizenship.

£29,000
Minimum Income (2025)
24 weeks
Processing Time
2.5 yrs
Initial Visa Length
5 yrs
Path to ILR

Important Update: Income Threshold Changes

From April 2025, the minimum income requirement increased to £29,000. Originally planned to rise to £38,700 in 2025, this has been delayed. Stay updated with the latest requirements before applying.

UK Family Visa Types

Different visa options for spouses, partners, and fiancé(e)s of British citizens and settled persons

Spouse Visa

For married couples
  • EligibilityLegally married
  • Initial Duration33 months
  • Extension30 months
  • Path to ILRAfter 5 years
  • Work RightsFull work rights
  • Study RightsCan study freely

Unmarried Partner Visa

For cohabiting couples
  • Eligibility2+ years cohabitation
  • Initial Duration33 months
  • Extension30 months
  • Path to ILRAfter 5 years
  • Proof RequiredJoint tenancy, bills, etc.
  • Work RightsFull work rights

Fiancé(e) Visa

For engaged couples
  • Duration6 months
  • Marriage DeadlineWithin 6 months
  • Work RightsCannot work
  • After MarriageSwitch to Spouse Visa
  • Application Fee£1,846
  • IHSNot required

Key Requirements

Essential criteria you must meet to qualify for a UK Spouse or Partner Visa

Financial Requirement

  • Sponsor must earn minimum £29,000/year
  • Income from employment or self-employment
  • Cash savings of £88,500+ can substitute (updated 2025)
  • Income from pension or rental allowed
  • Must show consistent income for 6 months
  • Additional funds for dependents

Accommodation

  • Adequate accommodation in UK
  • Not overcrowded or shared unlawfully
  • Property can be owned or rented
  • Must be ready before visa granted
  • Evidence: tenancy agreement or mortgage

English Language

  • A1 CEFR level for initial visa
  • A2 CEFR for extension
  • B1 CEFR for ILR
  • IELTS Life Skills accepted
  • Exemptions for certain nationalities
  • Degree taught in English exempt

Genuine Relationship

  • Demonstrate genuine relationship
  • Photos together over time
  • Communication evidence (messages, calls)
  • Visits to each other
  • Meet legal requirements for marriage
  • Intention to live together permanently

Income Requirements

The minimum income requirement (MIR) has been updated for 2025/2026

The table below shows the evolution of UK Spouse Visa income requirements over time, including historical and current rates.

Timeline Minimum Income Status
Before April 2024 £18,600 Historical
April 2024 - March 2025 £23,800 Expired
April 2025 onwards £29,000 Current
Future (TBC) £38,700 Delayed

Application Process

Step-by-step guide to applying for a UK Spouse Visa

1

Check Eligibility

Verify income, relationship status, and accommodation requirements

2

Gather Documents

Collect financial evidence, relationship proof, and ID documents

3

English Test

Pass IELTS Life Skills A1 or equivalent approved test

4

Online Application

Complete form online and pay visa fee + Immigration Health Surcharge

5

Biometrics

Attend appointment at visa application centre

6

Decision

Wait 24 weeks (standard) or 6 weeks (priority)

Path to Settlement

Your route from Spouse Visa to British Citizenship

Spouse Visa

33 months

Extension

30 months

ILR

After 5 years

Citizenship

After 1 year

UK Spouse Visa Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about this visa category.

What is the UK Spouse Visa?

The UK Spouse Visa (Partner Visa) allows spouses and partners of British citizens or those settled in the UK to join their partner and eventually settle in the UK.

What is the minimum income requirement?

The sponsor must show an annual income of £29,000 (increasing to £38,700 by 2025). Alternative options include savings, self-employment income, or combination.

What evidence proves a genuine relationship?

Evidence includes marriage certificate, photos together, communication records, joint finances, evidence of living together, and statements from family/friends.

How long is the Spouse Visa valid?

Initial spouse visa is granted for 33 months (or 30 months if applying from inside UK). After renewal, you can apply for settlement after 5 years total.

Can I work on a Spouse Visa?

Yes, Spouse Visa holders have full work rights. You can work for any employer, be self-employed, or start a business without restrictions.

What is the English requirement?

You must prove English at CEFR A1 for initial application and A2 for extension. Exemptions apply for certain nationalities and academic qualifications.

Can my children come with me?

Yes, dependent children under 18 can be included in your application. They can study and access public education.

When can I apply for settlement?

After 5 years on spouse/partner route, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). You must pass Life in the UK test and meet English requirements.

What if we separate before ILR?

If relationship breaks down due to domestic violence, you may still be able to apply for ILR. Other separations may require leaving the UK.

How long does Spouse Visa processing take?

Processing typically takes 3-6 months from outside UK, or 8 weeks (using priority services) to 6 months from inside UK.

Start Your UK Spouse Visa Application

Our immigration experts can help you navigate the complex UK spouse visa requirements and maximize your chances of approval.

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