Overview
The Family visa (Partner/Spouse) is designed for those in a genuine, subsisting relationship with a person settled in the UK. You must be married, in a civil partnership, or in a durable relationship (living together for at least two years). The route requires meeting strict financial and English language thresholds to ensure you can support yourself and your family.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must be 18 or older and in a recognized relationship with a British citizen or a person with settled status. You must meet a minimum income requirement (currently £29,000 per year for the sponsor) and demonstrate English language proficiency at level A1 or higher. You must also prove your relationship is genuine and that you have adequate accommodation in the UK.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Confirm you meet the relationship, financial, and English language requirements.
- 2
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Gather all required evidence, including financial proof and relationship documentation.
- 3
Step 3: Submit Online Application
Complete the online form on the official GOV.UK website and pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
- 4
Step 4: Biometric Appointment
Book and attend an appointment at a visa application center to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
- 5
Step 5: Wait for Decision
Await the Home Office decision, which typically takes 8 to 12 weeks depending on your location.
Required documents
- Valid passport or travel document
- Evidence of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or proof of cohabitation)
- Proof of meeting the financial requirement (e.g., payslips, bank statements, or employment contract)
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Tuberculosis test results (if applicable based on your country of residence)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
This route leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on this visa.
Family options
Dependent children under 18 may be included in the application. They must also meet specific eligibility criteria.
Language notes
You must prove your knowledge of English at A1 level for your first application. This can be done by passing a SELT (Secure English Language Test) or by providing a degree taught in English, verified by Ecctis.
After arrival
Once in the UK, you will receive your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). You are free to work, study, and access public services, subject to the conditions of your visa.
Common pitfalls
- Failing to meet the minimum income requirement
- Insufficient evidence of a 'genuine and subsisting' relationship
- Incorrect English language test provider or level
- Missing documentation for the financial requirement (e.g., missing payslips)
FAQs about Family visa (Partner/Spouse)
Who is the Family visa (Partner/Spouse) for?+
Partners or spouses of British citizens, persons with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), or those with settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
What are the eligibility requirements for Family visa (Partner/Spouse)?+
To qualify, you must be 18 or older and in a recognized relationship with a British citizen or a person with settled status. You must meet a minimum income requirement (currently £29,000 per year for the sponsor) and demonstrate English language proficiency at level A1 or higher. You must also prove your relationship is genuine and that you have adequate accommodation in the UK.
How much does the Family visa (Partner/Spouse) cost?+
Typical fees listed for Family visa (Partner/Spouse): Application fee is approximately £1,846, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £1,035 per year of the visa duration.. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Family visa (Partner/Spouse) processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically 8 weeks for applications from inside the UK and 12 weeks for applications from outside the UK..
How long can I stay on the Family visa (Partner/Spouse)?+
Initial grant of 2.5 or 2.75 years (depending on application location); leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
Can I work on the Family visa (Partner/Spouse)?+
Full work rights; you may work in any field or capacity without restriction.
Does Family visa (Partner/Spouse) lead to permanent residence in United Kingdom?+
This route leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on this visa.
What are common mistakes with Family visa (Partner/Spouse)?+
Failing to meet the minimum income requirement Insufficient evidence of a 'genuine and subsisting' relationship Incorrect English language test provider or level