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The UK Spouse Visa: Your Guide

What is the UK Spouse Visa?

The spouse visa (also called the partner visa) allows a foreign national to live in the UK with their partner who is a British citizen or has settled status. It’s important to note that marrying a British citizen doesn’t automatically grant you the right to live in the UK. You must apply for this visa. It is available to those who are married, in a civil partnership, or unmarried.

Initially, it’s granted for up to 2 years and 9 months, with an extension of 2 years and 6 months and later acquiring Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows you to stay in the UK permanently. After gaining ILR, you could be eligible to apply for British citizenship.

Who is eligible?

You can apply if your UK-based partner:

• Is a British or Irish citizen
• Has settled status (ILR, permanent residence, or EU Settled Status)
• Has refugee status or humanitarian protection
• Has a Turkish Businessperson or Worker visa

You must intend to live together in the UK and provide evidence of a genuine relationship.

Requirements

To be successful, you’ll need to provide evidence of:

• A genuine and eligible relationship
• Suitable accommodation in the UK
• Meeting the English language requirement (at least level A1 for your first application)

Applying

The process is online:

1. Check your eligibility
2. Prepare your documents
3. Complete the online form
4. Pay the application fee
5. Upload supporting documents
6. Arrange a biometric appointment
7. Attend an interview if invited

Need Help?

ABC Above and Beyond’s immigration specialists can help with your application. Call us on +44 (0)7707 324416 for advice.