UK family visas
UK spouse visa: apply as a partner or spouse
The UK spouse visa, officially the family visa for a partner or spouse, lets you live in the UK with a British, Irish or settled partner. It starts as a visa of up to 2 years and 9 months and can lead to settlement after 5 years.
- First visa
- Up to 2 years 9 months
- Decision from India
- Usually about 12 weeks
- Settlement
- After 5 years on this visa
Who it suits
Is this visa for you?
- Married to a British or Irish citizen, or a person settled in the UK
- In a civil partnership recognised in the UK
- Both of you aged 18 or over, and planning to live together permanently in the UK
The basics
What the UK looks for
- Your partner is a British or Irish citizen, or has settled status in the UK
- Your marriage or civil partnership is recognised in the UK
- Combined income of at least £29,000 a year, or an allowed alternative such as savings
- A good knowledge of English, at level A1 for the first application, unless exempt
- Evidence that the relationship is real and continuing
- Children under 18 can usually be included
A summary of the published rules. The full rules have more conditions, and they change. GOV.UK: Apply as a partner or spouse
Take care
Where cases go wrong
- Income that is real but not shown in the way the rules accept
- Relationship evidence that is thin, old or does not match your story
- An English test result that is the wrong type or has expired
Your case has details a web page cannot cover.
A consultation tells you where you stand, and what to do first.
Book a consultationFAQs
Spouse or partner visa questions
Is the UK spouse visa the same as a dependant visa?
No. A spouse visa is for the partner of a British or settled person. A dependant visa is for the partner or child of someone on a UK work or study visa. They have different rules.
How much income do we need for a UK spouse visa?
For most new applications the combined income requirement is £29,000 a year. Some people on an older extension may have a lower figure. Savings can sometimes be used instead. The exact rules are strict, so check before you apply.
How long does a UK spouse visa take from India?
GOV.UK says a decision usually takes about 12 weeks when you apply from outside the UK. Times can change.
Can I work in the UK on a spouse visa?
Yes. A partner on this visa is generally free to work. Check the visa conditions on your own permission.
Keep reading
Related UK family guides
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