Applying for a UK Spouse Visa? This comprehensive guide will help you understand the timelines, requirements, and steps you can take to speed up your application while meeting all Home Office expectations.
Average Spouse Visa Processing Times:
| Application Type | Standard Time | Priority | Super Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outside the UK | Up to 12 weeks | 5 working days | 24 hours |
| Inside the UK | Up to 8 weeks | 5 working days | 24 hours |
| Complex Cases | Up to 12 months | Not available | Not available |
Note: Times are estimates and can vary depending on application complexity, time of year, and UKVI workload.
Who Is Eligible for a UK Spouse Visa?
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be legally married or in a civil partnership with a British or settled partner
- Intend to live together permanently in the UK
- Meet financial, accommodation, and English language requirements
Financial Requirement:
- Minimum annual income: £29,000
- This does not increase if you have non-settled children
- Can be met via salary, savings, or other specified income
English Language Requirement:
- Pass an approved English test at level A1, A2 or B1
- OR provide a degree taught in English
Accommodation Requirement:
- Provide proof of suitable accommodation (rental agreement, mortgage, or property inspection report)
Check Also: UK Spouse Visa After Foreign Marriage – Requirements
What Affects Visa Processing Time?
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Incomplete Application | Likely delays due to requests for information |
| Peak Periods | Holiday seasons may increase backlog |
| Prior Immigration History | Complex cases take longer |
| Translation Errors | May result in document rejection |
Priority and Super Priority Services:
Priority Service
- Decision in 5 working days
- Costs approx. £500 extra
Super Priority Service
- Decision in 24 hours
- Costs approx. £1000 extra
These services do not guarantee approval. They only speed up the decision time for well-prepared applications.
How to Minimise Delays:
- Double-check your application for completeness
- Prepare a comprehensive set of documents (see checklist below)
- Avoid applying during holiday periods
- Respond promptly to UKVI/UKVCAS requests
- Consider using professional immigration advisors
- Use plain, clear English in all documentation
Document Checklist:
| Category | Documents |
|---|---|
| Relationship | Marriage certificate, shared bills, correspondence, cohabitation evidence |
| Financial | Payslips, bank statements, employment contract, P60 |
| English Language | English test results or UK NARIC certificate |
| Accommodation | Tenancy agreement, property inspection report, confirmation letter |
Each document must be current, translated (if needed), and clearly scanned or uploaded.
Understanding UKVCAS & Home Office Roles:
- UKVCAS: Collects biometrics, accepts uploaded docs, schedules appointments
- Home Office (UKVI): Reviews the application and makes the decision
In some cases, you can use the UKVCAS IDV app to submit your biometrics and documents digitally, skipping the need for an in-person appointment.
Final Thoughts:
Applying for a UK Spouse Visa can be complex, but with proper preparation, you can avoid delays. Consider consulting immigration specialists, and always check the latest guidance from the UK Government.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take to process a UK Spouse Visa?
The standard processing time for a UK Spouse Visa from outside the UK is typically up to 24 weeks (about 6 months), though it can vary depending on the country of application and complexity of the case.
How long does it take to process a Spouse Visa from inside the UK (FLR(M))?
If applying from within the UK (visa extension or switch to spouse visa), the standard processing time is around 8 weeks, and the Super Priority Service may allow a decision within 1 working day, for an additional fee.
Is there a faster way to get a UK Spouse Visa?
Yes. Some application centers offer a Priority Service, which can reduce the processing time to around 30 working days, depending on availability and eligibility.