UK Spouse Visa

UK Spouse Visa
Are you looking to reunite with your spouse in the UK? Pak-Harmain Travels is here to make the process of obtaining a Spouse Visa for the United Kingdom simple and straightforward. With our expert guidance, we ensure that you navigate the complexities of the application process with ease, helping you reunite with your loved one without unnecessary stress.
 

What is a UK Spouse Visa?

A UK Spouse Visa allows the non-British partners of UK citizens or settled residents to join them in the United Kingdom. This visa is for those who are legally married or in a civil partnership, as well as individuals in long-term, committed relationships.

UK Spouse Visa Requirements

If you plan to join your spouse or partner in the UK, it’s essential to meet the UK Spouse Visa requirements for a successful application. Pak-Harmain Travels will guide you through every step, ensuring you meet all the necessary criteria.

General Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a UK Spouse Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Relationship Status:
You must be legally married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone settled in the UK (i.e., with indefinite leave to remain). The relationship must be genuine and legally recognized. Evidence of this, such as a marriage certificate, joint bank statements, and photographs together, must be provided.

Financial Requirement:
The sponsoring partner must meet a minimum income threshold, which is currently £18,600 per year. This amount increases if you have children applying. Various types of income can be used to demonstrate this requirement, such as employment, self-employment, or savings. It’s essential to provide documentation to prove your income.

Accommodation:
You must have suitable accommodation for yourself and your spouse. This could include a rented property, owned home, or staying with family. The Home Office will assess the living conditions to ensure they meet health and safety standards. Supporting documents like tenancy agreements or property deeds are needed.

English Language Proficiency:
Applicants must prove their proficiency in the English language. This can be demonstrated through an approved English language test or a degree taught in English. Citizens of certain countries may be exempt from this requirement.

Intention to Live Together:
You must show the Home Office that you intend to live together permanently in the UK. Evidence such as shared financial responsibilities, travel plans, or family arrangements should be provided.

Documents Required for a UK Spouse Visa

Here’s the list of essential documents for your UK Spouse Visa application:

Valid Passport:
A passport or travel document confirming your identity and nationality is required.

Marriage Certificate:
This is necessary to prove your relationship. If your marriage took place outside the UK, a translated copy may be needed.

Proof of Relationship:
Evidence to show your relationship is genuine, such as photographs, joint bank statements, or correspondence.

Financial Evidence:
Documents like payslips, bank statements, and tax documents to prove that you meet the income requirement.

Accommodation Details:
Proof of suitable accommodation, such as a tenancy agreement, mortgage statement, or utility bills.

English Language Proficiency:
Proof of your English language skills, such as a certificate from an approved test or evidence of a degree taught in English.

Biometric Information:
You’ll need to provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) at the visa application center.

Additional Documents (if applicable):
This may include birth certificates of children, divorce decrees, and evidence of previous immigration applications.

Cover Letter (optional):
While not mandatory, a cover letter summarizing your application and attached documents can help clarify your case.

Spouse Visa UK Fees

The fees associated with the UK Spouse Visa are as follows:

Visa Application Fee:
The standard application fee for a Spouse Visa from outside the UK is approximately £1,538. If applying from within the UK, the fee is around £1,048. These fees may vary based on individual circumstances.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
In addition to the application fee, you must pay the IHS. This is approximately £624 per year for adults and £470 for children. The IHS gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. The total will depend on the length of your visa (usually 30 months for a Spouse Visa).

Additional Costs:
Other costs may include:

• Biometric Appointment Fee (usually included in the application fee).
• Translation Fees for documents not in English.
• Legal Fees if you choose to hire an immigration lawyer.

Spouse Visa UK Processing Time

The processing time for a UK Spouse Visa can vary:

Application from Outside the UK:
It typically takes around 12 weeks (3 months) to process a Spouse Visa application from outside the UK.

Application from Within the UK:
For those already in the UK, the processing time is typically around 8 weeks, though it may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Priority and Super Priority Services:

• Priority Service: This reduces processing times to around 5 working days for applications from outside the UK.
• Super Priority Service: This can allow a decision within 24 hours for applications made in the UK. Availability depends on the visa application center.

FAQs

How long does a UK Spouse Visa take?
Typically, it takes about 12 weeks from outside the UK and 8 weeks from within the UK. Priority services can speed up the process.

What is the success rate of a Spouse Visa UK?
The success rate generally ranges from 80% to 90%. Ensure your application is complete and all required documents are provided.

What is the minimum salary to sponsor a spouse in the UK?
The minimum salary for sponsoring a spouse is £29,000 per year. If children are involved, the threshold increases further.

What are the benefits of a Spouse Visa UK?

• Right to live and work in the UK without restrictions.
• Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after a certain period.
• Access to NHS services and other public services.
• Travel flexibility in and out of the UK.
• Eligibility for public benefits after a certain time.

For a smooth and successful application process, contact Pak-Harmain Travels today and let us help you reunite with your loved one in the UK.