Spouse visa solicitors

The spouse visa, part of the family route under Appendix FM, allows applicants to join or remain with their British or settled partner in the UK. It is usually granted for 30 months and can lead to indefinite leave to remain after five years.

Following the Home Office reforms announced in October 2025 (HC 1333), new financial thresholds, language standards, and suitability checks now apply to all partner and spouse applications made from 2026.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must usually show:

• A genuine and subsisting marriage to a British citizen or settled partner.
• Both partners are over 18 and intend to live together permanently in the UK.
• The couple meets the financial requirement through income or savings (the minimum income threshold will increase to £34,500 from March 2026, with future annual indexation.)
• Adequate accommodation is available.
• The applicant meets the English language requirement (revised CEFR B1 standards now apply to all initial and extension applications under Appendix English Language.)
• They meet the Home Office’s new suitability criteria covering previous immigration compliance and conduct.

Application process

• Step 1 – Confirm eligibility and gather evidence of the relationship, finances, and accommodation.
   
• Step 2 – Complete and submit the online application, paying the visa fee and immigration health surcharge.
   
• Step 3 – Upload documents and attend a biometric appointment.
   
• Step 4 – Await the Home Office decision, usually within 12 weeks.

Common issues

Applications may be refused if the financial threshold is not met, the relationship evidence is weak, or English language proof is missing.

Under the 2025 reforms, the Home Office applies stricter evidence standards across financial and relationship documentation, making early preparation essential.

How we help

We support couples by:

• Reviewing eligibility and advising on timing.
• Preparing document checklists and verifying evidence.
• Drafting and submitting applications.
• Advising on extensions and long-term settlement.

Why choose us

Our solicitors provide clear, practical advice on spouse visas and family immigration. We help couples avoid delays and refusals by preparing strong, compliant applications.

Contact our immigration solicitors today for expert advice on spouse visas.