Spouse / Partner Visa

Family Route Leads to ILR Work & Study Allowed

Live together in the UK with a clear route to ILR after 5 years.

The Spouse / Partner route lets you join a British or settled partner. You’ll need to meet relationship, financial, English, and accommodation rules.

At a glance
  • Initial grant: up to 33 months (outside UK) or 30 months (inside)
  • Extension: +30 months → ILR after 5 years
  • Work & study permitted; no sponsorship needed
  • Children under 18 can apply as dependants
Eligibility
Relationship
Married/civil partners, fiancé(e)s, or durable partners (2+ years akin to marriage).
Partner’s status
Partner is British, settled (ILR), or has eligible protection/EUSS status.
Financial requirement
Minimum income (e.g., £29,000/yr) or savings / permitted combinations.
Accommodation
Adequate housing without overcrowding.
English language
A1 for entry; A2 at extension; B1 + Life in the UK for ILR (typical).
Genuine & subsisting
Provide evidence of a real, ongoing relationship.
Fees & Processing
Application fee
£1,846

Outside UK (switching in-country typically £1,048).

IHS (per year)
£1,035 per person

Paid upfront for the total years granted.

Processing
~3 months

Priority/Super Priority may be available for extra fees.

SubmissionBiometricsDecision
How it works
1
Prepare evidence

Relationship docs, financials (income/savings), accommodation, English test, TB (if applicable).

2
Apply & biometrics

Online form → pay fees/IHS → book biometrics (TLS/VFS) or app (where offered).

3
Decision & arrival

On approval, collect BRP/eVisa. Start 5-year route (extensions then ILR).

Work rights & Family
Work rights
  • Full-time work in any role (no sponsorship needed)
  • Study permitted; access to most types of employment
  • Path to ILR after 5 years on the route
Family
  • Children under 18 can apply as dependants
  • Provide evidence of maintenance/accommodation
  • After ILR, citizenship may be possible (if eligible)
Documents (Typical)
ItemDetails
PassportsApplicant + partner
Relationship evidenceMarriage/civil certificate, or 2+ years cohabitation proofs
Financial evidencePayslips, employment letters, tax docs, or savings evidence
AccommodationTenancy/mortgage + inspection/overcrowding report (if needed)
English testApproved test (A1/A2/B1 depending on stage) or exemption
TB certificateIf required based on country of residence
FAQs

Yes—substantial savings can meet the requirement on their own, or combine with lower income. Evidence rules and formula apply.

Yes—fiancé(e) / proposed civil partners can apply to marry within 6 months of arrival, then switch to Spouse route.

After 5 continuous years on the Spouse/Partner route, meeting all requirements (plus Life in the UK & English B1 at ILR stage).

Let’s Get in Touch

How we can help you
to acheive your goals.

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