UK Spouse Visa (5-Year Route)
The Spouse Visa UK under the 5-year route allows non-UK spouses to join their British or settled partners in the UK. This visa is initially granted for 33 months if applied from outside the UK and 30 months if applied from within the UK.
After this period, you can apply for an extension. Once you complete 5 years on this visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
If you are planning to apply for a UK Spouse visa, our immigration solicitors can provide legal advice assistance with your UK Spouse visa application.
Please contact our immigration solicitor at 0158 235 9990 or fill in the enquiry form to take the first step towards your successful UK Spouse visa application.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Spouse visa UK, you must meet the following requirements:
- You and your partner must be over 18.
- You and your partner must be legally married or in a civil partnership.
- Your relationship must be genuine and subsisting.
- You must have met in person at least once.
- Your partner must meet the minimum income threshold of £29,000 gross per year or have sufficient savings.
- You must have adequate accommodation arranged for you and any dependents.
- You must demonstrate knowledge of English at a CEFR level A1.
Depending on the type of your appication and circumstances, you must meet all the other eligibility requirements. Schedule a consultation with our UK immigration solicitor for your eligibility assessments.
Minimum Income Requirement
If your partner is employed in the UK, they must have a gross annual income of at least £29,000. If you have children who will also be applying for the visa, the income requirement will be higher.
English Language Proficiency
You need to demonstrate your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English to at least level A1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. You can prove this through an approved English language test or by having a degree-level academic qualification that was taught in English.
Documents you'll need to apply
When applying for a Spouse visa to the UK, you'll typically need the following documents:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Evidence of relationship
- Marriage certificate
- Financial evidence
- Proof of accommodation
- English language test results
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)
- Completed application form
The document checklist provided above is not exhaustive, and additional documents may be required depending on the type of your UK visa application and your circumstances. Schedule a consultation with our UK immigration solicitor to get a comprehensive list of required documents and eligibility assessments.
Application Process
Applying for a Spouse visa involves several steps:
- Online Application: Fill out the online application form on the UK government's official website.
- Supporting Documents: Submit the required documents, including evidence of your relationship and proof of English proficiency.
- Pay Fees: Pay the Spouse visa application fee.
- Biometrics: Book and attend your biometric appointment. Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) at a visa application centre.
- Wait for a Decision: You should receive a decision within 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK using standard service.
UK Spouse visa processing time
If you apply outside the UK you'll usually get a decision within 24 weeks.
If you apply inside the UK and you meet the financial requirements and English language requirements, you'll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.
If you apply inside the UK and you do not meet the financial requirements and English language requirements, it currently takes about 12 months to get a decision.
The processing time for a UK visa or immigration application can vary depending on several factors. All the applicants are advised to check the latest information about application processing time on the official UK government website.
How much it costs
Applying for a UK Spouse Visa involves several costs, including the application fee, Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and additional expenses related to gathering documents such as TB test and English language test.
The application fee for a UK Spouse Visa varies depending on whether you apply from outside or inside the UK:
- Applying from Outside the UK: £1,846
- Applying from Inside the UK (Switching or Extending): £1,048
These fees are subject to change, so it's important to check the latest information on the official UK government website.
Why choose us?
Are you facing immigration challenges or seeking assistance with visa applications in the UK? Our team of experienced immigration solicitors is here to provide you with expert legal guidance and support every step of the way.
Here's why you should choose us and how we can help:
Expertise and Experience
Our immigration solicitors have years of experience navigating the complexities of UK immigration law. We stay updated with the latest developments in immigration policies and procedures to ensure that our clients receive accurate and reliable advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
Comprehensive Range of Services
Our immigration solicitors offer a wide range of services to individuals, families, and businesses. From visa applications and appeals to asylum claims and corporate immigration matters, we have the knowledge and expertise to handle various immigration issues effectively.
Strong Track Record of Success
With a proven track record of success, our immigration solicitors have helped countless individuals and families achieve their immigration goals. Whether it's obtaining a visa, securing permanent residency, or reuniting with loved ones, we have the skills and resources to get results.
Cost-Effective Solutions
We understand that immigration matters can be financially challenging, which is why we offer cost-effective solutions tailored to our clients' budgets. Our transparent fee structure ensures that you know exactly what to expect without any hidden costs or surprises along the way.
Regulated by SRA
Solicitors and law firms in the UK must be registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). You can check their credentials by visiting the SRA's official website or by asking the solicitor or law firm for their registration details.
We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) under SRA ID: 8000860, so you know you're in safe hands.
How to contact immigration solicitors in Luton?
Looking for an experienced immigration solicitor in Luton? Look no further than LEXMM SOLICITORS. For legal advice & help, call us today at 0158 235 9990.
To schedule a consultation, you can contact our office by phone (0158 235 9990) or email (info@lexmmsolicitors.co.uk). Alternatively, you can fill out the online contact form, and a member of our team will reach out to you promptly to arrange a suitable time for a consultation.