Spouse Visa
Overview
The UK Spouse Visa allows the husband, wife, or civil partner of a British citizen or a person with settled status to live and work in the UK. This route is part of the 'Family of a Settled Person' visa category. At Westbury Law, we understand that reuniting with your partner is a life-changing event, and our solicitors are dedicated to ensuring your application meets the high threshold set by the Home Office. The Spouse Visa leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence, providing a secure path to a future together in the United Kingdom. At Westbury Law, we specialize in navigating the complexities of Spouse Visa. Our team ensures that your application is thorough, accurate, and presented in the best possible light to the Home Office.
How We Can Help
- Detailed Eligibility Assessment
- Financial Requirement Planning
- Relationship Evidence Audit
- English Language Guidance
- Accommodation Adequacy Check
- Full Application Management
Core Eligibility Requirements
- You and your spouse must be at least 18 years old.
- Your spouse must be a British or Irish citizen, have settled status, or have pre-settled status (under the EUSS).
- You must be in a legally recognized marriage or civil partnership.
- You must prove that your relationship is genuine and subsisting.
- You must meet the financial requirement (currently £29,000 per year, unless transitions apply).
- You must meet the English language requirement (at least level A1 for initial applications).
- You must have adequate accommodation that is not overcrowded.
The Financial Requirement Explained
One of the most common reasons for Spouse Visa refusal is failing to meet the financial requirement. The Home Office requires the UK sponsor (or both partners if applying in the UK) to show a gross annual income of at least £29,000. This can be met through salaried employment, self-employment, cash savings over £16,000, pensions, or non-employment income like rental property. Our solicitors will meticulously review your financial documents to ensure they meet the specific evidential requirements of Appendix FM-SE.
Proving a Genuine Relationship
The 'Genuine and Subsisting' test is a subjective assessment by the Home Office. You must provide evidence of your shared life, such as photos together, records of communication (chat logs, call history), evidence of travel to see each other, joint financial commitments, and letters of support from friends and family. We help you curate a robust evidence bundle that tells the true story of your commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does a Spouse Visa last? The initial visa is granted for 33 months if applying from outside the UK, or 30 months if applying from within the UK.
- Can I work on a Spouse Visa? Yes, you have full right to work and study in the UK.
- What happens after 5 years? After two periods of 2.5 years each, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- What if my application is refused? We specialize in Spouse Visa appeals and Administrative Reviews to challenge incorrect Home Office decisions.
Why Choose Westbury Law?
With years of experience and a high success rate, we are the trusted choice for immigration services in the UK. We offer transparent pricing and dedicated support throughout your journey.