Also known as a UK marriage visa, a spouse visa allows married partners of UK citizens to immigrate to the UK because they are married to someone who is 'settled in the UK' - i.e. a person who is ordinarily resident in the UK and has no immigration restrictions on how long they can stay in the UK.
The spouse visa is essential for couples looking to build a life together in the UK. It provides the opportunity for the non-UK spouse to join their partner and live in the country, ensuring that families can remain united.
You can apply for a spouse visa from overseas or from within the UK. If you are already in the UK on a fiance visa, work visa, or student visa valid for more than six months, you may be able to switch into a spouse visa.
The average processing time for a spouse visa application is 2 – 12 weeks from the date we submit the application to the UKBA. Processing times vary depending on the country where the application is made.
If applying from overseas, a spouse visa is initially issued for 33 months. If you are applying from within the UK, a spouse visa is issued for a period of 30 months, allowing you to settle comfortably.
