UK Spouse or Partner Visa
Long-Term
01
Spouse or Partner Visa
An Overview of Spouse Visa
Moving across borders for love or family can be a profound yet complex journey. When your heart belongs in the UK, alongside your spouse or partner, understanding the legal pathways is crucial. The UK Spouse or Partner Visa (commonly known as Spouse Visa) serves as a bridge to this transition, ensuring that families can reunite and build their nest in a new homeland. This segment elucidates the core intent of this visa and outlines who stands eligible to avail it.
Who is this Visa For?
The eligibility for the Spouse or Partner Visa extends to a diverse range of relationships, echoing the modern societal fabric. Here’s a glimpse into the variety of relationships this visa caters to:
Married Couples:
- The traditional marriage bond between individuals is a clear pathway to this visa. Whether newly wed or celebrating decades together, married couples have the opportunity to embark on a new chapter in the UK.
Civil Partnerships:
- Recognizing the modern paradigms, the UK extends the visa privilege to civil partners, reflecting inclusivity in its immigration laws.
Unmarried Partners:
- Long-term partners who aren’t legally married but share a genuine and subsisting relationship also find representation in this visa category. This provision appreciates the evolving nature of relationships.
Fiancé(e)s and Proposed Civil Partners:
- If you are on the verge of tying the knot or entering into a civil partnership in the UK, this visa serves as your gateway to a shared future.
Same-Sex Couples:
- The Spouse or Partner Visa is an emblem of equal rights, offering a welcoming hand to same-sex couples aspiring to build their life together in the UK.
Spouses of Points-Based System Visa Holders:
- If your spouse is in the UK on a Points-Based System Visa, you too can explore the prospect of moving to the UK under this visa category.
Purpose of the Visa
The UK Spouse or Partner Visa is a hallmark of the British government’s commitment to honor and foster family unions. This visa type facilitates non-UK residents, married or in a durable relationship with a UK citizen or a person having settled status, to move and live together in the UK. It’s not merely a visa; it’s a ticket to a shared future, entailing a life where couples can flourish together amidst the rich cultural tapestry of the UK.
A quintessence of love transcending geographical boundaries, this visa aims at reducing the miles between hearts, ensuring that love blooms in the congenial environment of the UK. It’s about making the UK home, together.
The core purpose of the Spouse or Partner Visa is to uphold family unity, enabling individuals to live with their loved ones in the UK. It bridges geographical and bureaucratic divides, providing a legal route for spouses and partners to establish their homes in the UK alongside their British or settled partners.
Family Reunification: At the heart of this visa is the principle of family reunification. It acknowledges the importance of family bonds and provides a channel for spouses and partners to live together in the UK.
Establishing a Home: With this visa, beneficiaries can establish their home in the UK, embark on new career opportunities, and contribute to the socio-economic fabric of the country.
Long-term Relationship Recognition: By including provisions for unmarried partners and those intending to marry or enter into civil partnerships, the UK upholds the value of long-term, genuine relationships, fostering a supportive environment for love and commitment to flourish.
The Spouse or Partner Visa is not merely a document; it’s a conduit for dreams, hopes, and enduring relationships to thrive on UK soil. As you navigate the legal landscape, understanding the essence and the beneficiaries of this visa is your first stride towards a shared future in the UK.
What Can You Do On this Visa?
Reside with Your Partner
The primary benefit of the UK Spouse Visa is the opportunity it provides to live with your spouse or partner in the UK. This visa facilitates the reunion of families and allows couples to build their lives together on British soil.
Employment Opportunities
With a Spouse Visa, you are generally permitted to work in the UK. This includes being employed, self-employed, or even starting your own business. The freedom to pursue employment is a significant advantage that helps in achieving financial stability and integrating into the local community.
Access to Education
Holders of a Spouse Visa have the privilege to enroll in educational courses in the UK. Whether it’s pursuing higher education or enrolling in professional development courses, the visa facilitates your educational pursuits.
Access to Healthcare
Spouse Visa holders are typically eligible for healthcare services provided by the National Health Service (NHS). This access ensures that you and your family can receive medical attention whenever necessary.
Ability to Extend Visa
The UK Spouse Visa comes with the possibility of extension, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. This feature provides a sense of security and the potential for long-term planning.
Pathway to Settlement
Over time, the Spouse Visa can serve as a stepping stone towards achieving settled status or indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK, eventually leading to British citizenship. This progression paves the way for a long-term commitment to life in the UK.
The UK Spouse Visa is a gateway to numerous opportunities that enhance the quality of life and provide a stable platform for individuals and their families to thrive in the UK. It’s a significant step towards building a promising future with your loved ones in a new country.
What You Cannot Do On this visa
Access to Public Funds
The UK Spouse Visa comes with certain restrictions to ensure that individuals adhere to the terms of their visa status. One of the prominent restrictions is the lack of access to public funds. Individuals on a Spouse Visa are generally not allowed to claim most benefits, pensions, or housing assistance that are funded by the state.
Employment Restrictions
Certain employment restrictions apply to individuals on a Spouse Visa, especially those who are in the UK as fiancés, fiancées, or proposed civil partners. They are not permitted to work until after they are married or have entered into a civil partnership. It’s crucial to be aware of and adhere to these employment restrictions to avoid jeopardizing your visa status.
Change of Relationship Status
The validity of a Spouse Visa is predicated on the relationship status between the applicant and the sponsoring partner. Should the relationship end (through divorce, dissolution, or separation), the individual may need to inform the Home Office and might have to leave the UK or switch to a different immigration category.
Overstaying Your Visa
Overstaying beyond the validity of your Spouse Visa is a serious offense and can lead to severe consequences. It’s essential to either leave the UK, obtain an extension, or switch to a different visa category before your Spouse Visa expires to maintain your legal status in the UK.
Engaging in Prohibited Activities
Engaging in activities that are inconsistent with the terms of the Spouse Visa, such as certain types of employment or business activities without the necessary permissions, can lead to visa cancellation or even deportation.
Understanding and adhering to the restrictions of the UK Spouse Visa is paramount to maintaining your legal status in the UK and enjoying a harmonious life with your partner.
Key Takeaways of this visa
Unveiling a Path for Family Reunification
The UK Spouse Visa serves as a vital conduit for spouses and partners of British citizens or individuals with settled status, to live together in the UK. It underscores the UK’s commitment to preserving family unity across borders.
Employment and Education Accessibility
The visa holders enjoy the liberty to seek employment, embark on self-employment ventures, or even initiate their own businesses in the UK. Additionally, they have the privilege to pursue educational courses, opening doors to personal and professional growth.
Healthcare Provisions
Access to the National Health Service (NHS) is a significant perk, ensuring that medical needs are met efficiently. Registering with a local General Practitioner (GP) facilitates seamless access to healthcare services.
Financial Self-Sufficiency
The eligibility criteria necessitate a demonstration of financial stability, ensuring that visa holders are financially self-sufficient and contribute positively to the UK’s economy.
Progression to Settled Status
Over time, complying with the visa stipulations and maintaining a genuine relationship can lead to the achievement of settled status or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, and eventually British citizenship. This pathway is instrumental for those envisioning a long-term future in the UK.
Legal Compliance and Documentation
Adherence to legal requisites, accurate documentation, and timely renewals are pivotal for maintaining the visa status. A clear understanding of the rights and restrictions associated with the Spouse Visa is crucial for a hassle-free experience.
Preparation for Unexpected Circumstances
Awareness regarding the procedures in case of changes in relationship status, or other unforeseen circumstances, prepares the visa holders for navigating through such scenarios proficiently.
The UK Spouse Visa is more than just a permit; it’s a harbinger of hope, opportunities, and a promising future in the UK for many couples and families. Through adherence to its guidelines and a thorough understanding of its provisions, visa holders can carve a fulfilling life in the UK.
1.1
Elucidating the Eligibility Criteria For Spouse Visa
When contemplating a marriaStepping into the realm of the Spouse or Partner Visa necessitates a thorough understanding of the eligibility criteria. This section delineates the quintessential prerequisites you must meet to be eligible for this visa. These stipulations ensure that only genuine and sustainable relationships pave the way for a life together in the UK.ge or civil partnership ceremony in the UK, it is paramount to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set forth by the UK government for the Marriage Visitor Visa. The criteria are straightforward and are primarily aimed at ensuring the genuineness of the marriage or civil partnership intentions, as well as the temporary nature of the stay.
Relationship Status
The cornerstone of eligibility for a Spouse or Partner Visa is the establishment of a bona fide relationship with a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK:
- Legally Recognized Union: You should be in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognized in the UK.
- Long-term Relationship: If not married, you and your partner must have been living together in a relationship akin to a marriage or civil partnership for at least two years.
- Engagement: If engaged, you should plan to marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within six months of arriving.
Financial Capability
Financial stability is crucial to ensure that you and your partner can sustain yourselves in the UK:
- Minimum Income Threshold: You and your partner must earn a combined gross annual income of £18,600 (this amount is being increased to £29,000 from Spring 2024). This amount increases by £3,800 for the first dependent child and £2,400 for any additional children.
- Evidence of Financial Stability: Provide proof of your income, which could include employment or self-employment income, certain types of benefits, or savings.
Language Proficiency
- English Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is a requisite, and you may need to prove your knowledge of English at the appropriate level.
The current English Language Proficiency requirements for the UK Spouse Visa as of 2024 are as follows:
For Out-of-Country Applications:
- Nationals of a majority English-speaking country are exempt from the English language test. These countries include the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several others.
- Applicants can pass an English language test in speaking and listening at a minimum of level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) with a Home Office-approved provider.
- Holding an English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree awarded by an educational establishment in the UK, or a similar qualification taught outside the UK that is deemed by UK NARIC to meet or exceed the recognized standard of a UK degree.
- Exemptions apply for applicants aged 65 or over, those with a disability preventing them from meeting the requirement, or those with exceptional circumstances.
For In-Country Applications:
- Spouse visa applicants will be required to pass level A2 of the English test if they are extending their previously issued partner visa after at least 30 months in the UK.
- The English language requirement does not need to be met if the paragraph EX.1. exception applies.
Approved Test Providers:
- Tests from approved providers like IELTS, Pearson PTE Home, Skills for English UKVI, LanguageCert International ESOL SELT, and Graded Examination in Spoken English (GESE) meet the requirements. Note that not all English tests qualify as Secure English Language Tests (SELTS), so it’s crucial to ensure the test is from a Home Office-approved entity.
- For spouse visa extensions in the UK, applicants will need to pass a test at A2 level or above from these providers.
Special Considerations:
- There are exemptions for nationals from majority English-speaking countries, individuals aged 65 or above, and those with specific health conditions.
- Applicants who have previously secured a UK visa and met the English requirement may be exempt, provided their circumstances haven’t changed.
Using Academic Qualifications:
- Degrees taught in English and awarded outside the UK can meet the language requirement if comparable to a UK bachelor’s degree or higher, as evaluated by ECCTIS.
Validity of Test Certificates:
- Test certificates are typically valid for two years from the issue date.
Age Requirement
Both you and your partner must be 18 years or over.
Residency Status of the UK Partner
Your partner in the UK must either:
- Be a British or Irish citizen.
- Have settled status in the UK, which includes indefinite leave to remain, settled status, or proof of permanent residence.
- Be from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein and have pre-settled status, given they started living in the UK before 1 January 2021.
Proof of Relationship
Substantiating your relationship is pivotal:
- Documentary Evidence: Provide documents like a marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, tenancy agreement, utility bills, or council tax bills confirming your shared residence.
- Joint Financial Responsibilities: Bank statements from a joint bank account, or other documents that confirm shared financial responsibilities could serve as evidence.
These eligibility criteria are fundamental in ensuring that only authentic relationships, bound by love and commitment, find a nest in the UK. Ensuring adherence to these criteria not only smoothens your visa application process but also sews the seeds for a stable and fulfilling life in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria For Spouse Visa : Financial Requirements in Focus
The Minimum Income Threshold for the Spouse Visa for the UK is a pivotal aspect that ensures the sponsoring partner can financially support the incoming spouse or partner, thereby not becoming reliant on public funds. This article delves into the intricacies of the Minimum Income Threshold, exploring its different sub-topics and alternative options.
Understanding the Threshold
The UK government stipulates a Minimum Income Threshold for those applying for a Spouse Visa. The basic requirement is an annual income of at least £18,600 ((this amount is being increased to £29,000 from Spring 2024). This figure, however, increases if there are dependent children involved. Specifically, an additional £3,800 is required for the first child and £2,400 for each subsequent child.
Income Sources
Various income sources can be considered to meet this threshold. These include:
- Employment Income: Earnings from employment are primary, whether from employment within the UK or self-employment. A minimum of 6 months’ earnings with the same employer is often required.
- Cash Savings: Savings above £16,000 can also be used towards meeting the financial requirement, if the amount has been held for the past one year.
- Non-work Income: This encompasses income from property rentals, dividends, and other non-employment sources.
- Pensions: Money from pensions is also an accepted source of income.
Proving Your Income
The application necessitates proof of income, usually through bank statements, payslips covering a six-month period, and a letter from the employer detailing the employment contract, position held, and earnings.
Alternate Scenarios
- Savings Instead of Income: In some cases, savings can be used as an alternative to income to meet the financial requirement.
To replace income with savings, an amount of at least £62,500 in cash savings is required. This figure is based on the notion that the savings will compensate for the standard minimum income threshold of £18,600 over a period of 2.5 years, which is the typical duration of a spouse visa before it needs renewal. The stipulated savings should have been held in a regulated financial institution for a continuous period of at least six months prior to the application.
- Combining Different Income Sources: It’s possible to combine different income sources to meet the income requirement. This is particularly useful if one source of income isn’t sufficient on its own.
Exceptions and Special Circumstances
There are scenarios where the income requirement may be relaxed or adjusted, for example:
- Loss of Income Due to COVID-19: Individuals who’ve experienced a loss of income due to the pandemic may still be eligible to apply.
- Long-Term Settlement: If the income requirement isn’t met, a 10-year route to settlement might be an alternative to the usual 5-year route.
Utilizing Savings Above £16,000
The rule stipulates that cash savings above £16,000 can be used towards meeting the financial requirement. Here’s how it generally works:
Savings Threshold: The first £16,000 of your savings is not counted. This is because £16,000 is considered the threshold below which individuals might be able to access certain public funds.
Calculating Usable Savings: Only the amount of savings above £16,000 is considered usable towards meeting the financial requirement. For instance, if you have £40,000 in savings, only £24,000 of that amount can be used towards the financial requirement (£40,000 – £16,000 = £24,000).
Combining with Income: If you have an income but it falls short of the required £18,600 annual income threshold, you can use your savings to make up the difference. The calculation is: (Required income shortfall x 2.5) + £16,000. For example, if your income is £16,000 per year, the shortfall is £2,600. So, the amount of savings needed would be: (£2,600 x 2.5) + £16,000 = £24,500.
Savings in Lieu of Income: If you are relying solely on savings and have no income, the calculation to replace the income requirement of £18,600 per year over the 2.5 years visa duration is: (£18,600 x 2.5) + £16,000 = £62,500. This is the amount of savings needed to fully replace the income requirement.
Documentation: Evidence of savings, usually in the form of bank statements, must be provided. The statements should show that the savings have been held for at least six months prior to the application.
- The savings amount intended to be used to meet the financial requirement for the UK Spouse Visa should be held in a bank account for at least six months prior to the visa application
Importance of Accurate Calculations
The accuracy in calculating the savings and presenting the right documents is pivotal for the visa application process. It’s advisable to consult with immigration experts or legal advisors to ensure that all the financial calculations are done accurately and all requisite documentation is in order.
Wrapping Up
The Minimum Income Threshold is a critical aspect of the UK Spouse Visa application process, designed to ensure financial stability and reduce the burden on public resources. Understanding the various income sources that can be used to meet this requirement, the proofs needed, and the alternative options available in special circumstances is crucial for a smooth application process. This comprehensive understanding also helps in adequately preparing for any unforeseen challenges that might arise in fulfilling this crucial visa requirement.
How to Prove Your Relationship Under The UK Spouse Visa?
Understanding the UK Spouse Visa Requirements
Navigating the UK’s immigration system can be a complex process, especially when it comes to proving your relationship under the UK Spouse Visa. The UK government has set specific criteria that both partners must meet to be eligible for this visa. Both partners must be 18 or over, and the UK-based partner must either be a British or Irish citizen, have settled status, or other specific types of visa or protection status. Importantly, both partners must intend to live together permanently in the UK.
What You Need to Prove
To successfully apply for a UK Spouse Visa, you must be able to prove one of the following:
- You’re in a civil partnership or marriage recognized in the UK.
- You’ve been living together in a relationship for at least two years at the time of application.
- You are a fiancé, fiancée, or proposed civil partner and will marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within six months of arriving.
In addition to these, you must also demonstrate a good knowledge of English and the ability to financially support yourself and any dependants.
How to Prove Your Relationship?
The UK government requires specific types of evidence to prove your relationship. This evidence must come from credible sources like the government, a bank, landlord, utility provider, or a medical professional. Here are some types of evidence you can use:
- A marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate
- A tenancy agreement, utility bills, or council tax bills confirming that you live at the same address or pay bills together
- A bank statement from a joint bank account, or confirming that you live at the same address
- A letter from your doctor or dentist confirming that you live at the same address
It’s crucial to note that the evidence must be less than four years old. If you don’t have any of these, you can also provide one-off bills like vet’s fees or home repair costs, letters confirming you and your partner are on the voting register for the same address, or student finance paperwork confirming that you live at the same address. However, things like greetings cards, travel tickets, receipts, photographs, and text or social media messages are not considered strong evidence and are unlikely to help your application.
By understanding these requirements and gathering the necessary evidence, you can make your UK Spouse Visa application process smoother and increase your chances of success.
1.2
Navigating the Application Process For the UK Spouse Visa
Venturing into the application process for the UK Spouse or Partner Visa is a pivotal stride towards uniting with your loved one in the UK. This segment is crafted to provide a comprehensive understanding of the application procedure, aiding in a seamless journey through the bureaucratic channels.
Step 1: Understanding the Prerequisites
Before plunging into the application, it’s imperative to acquaint yourself with the eligibility criteria as delineated in Part 2 of this guide. Ensure you meet the relationship, financial, language, and other requisites to proceed.
Step 2: Initiating the Application
The application process kicks off online, whether you are within the UK or applying from abroad:
- Out-of-Country Applications: If you’re outside the UK, initiate your application by accessing the online application form available on the UK government’s official website.
- In-Country Applications: For those already residing in the UK, the online application form is accessible through a different portal, earmarked for in-country applications.
Step 3: Filling the Application Form
Diligently complete the required sections of the online application form. This form is your first interaction with the UK immigration authorities, and accuracy is paramount.
Step 4: Document Preparation
Prepare a well-organized dossier of the requisite documents:
- Identity and Relationship Proof: Includes passports, marriage certificates, or evidence of your long-term relationship.
- Financial Documents: Proofs of income, employment, or savings to meet the financial requirement.
- Accommodation Evidence: Documents validating your accommodation arrangements in the UK.
Step 5: Application Submission
Submit your application along with the supporting documents online. Ensure that all documents are clear and legible to avoid any delays.
Step 6: Paying the Fee
The application fee as of 2023 is £1,048 if applying from within the UK and £1,846 if applying from outside the UK.
Step 7: Scheduling a Biometrics Appointment
Schedule a biometrics appointment as part of the application process to provide your fingerprints and a photo.
Step 8: Health Surcharge Payment
Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application, which grants you access to the UK’s National Health Service.
Step 9: Awaiting the Decision
Once submitted, the standard processing time for the spouse visa is 3 months on average for applications from outside the UK, and 6-8 weeks on average for applications from within the UK.
Step 10: Receiving the Visa
After receiving the visa you can start preparing for your travel.
1.3
Studying a Course in the UK Under Spouse Visa
Embarking on a course of study in the UK while on a Spouse Visa is a splendid opportunity to enhance your knowledge and skills. The UK hosts a myriad of reputable educational institutions offering a wide range of courses. Being on a Spouse Visa, you are generally permitted to study. However, it’s prudent to inform the institution about your visa status during the application process. Ensure you abide by the visa regulations and maintain your relationship status, as these are paramount for your continued stay in the UK. This venture not only enriches your educational portfolio but also broadens your horizons amidst the UK’s diverse cultural landscape.
1.4
Medical Treatments Under the UK Spouse Visa
Navigating healthcare needs on a UK Spouse Visa is facilitated by the country’s robust medical infrastructure. Typically, individuals on a Spouse Visa have access to the National Health Service (NHS), ensuring a broad spectrum of medical treatments and services. It’s advisable to register with a local GP upon arrival to streamline any future medical needs. This visa status generally entitles you to the same medical rights as UK residents, encompassing various treatments from general consultations to surgical procedures. It’s pivotal to have a clear understanding of your medical entitlements and obligations, ensuring a seamless experience during your stay in the UK, whether addressing routine health concerns or unforeseen medical emergencies.
1.5
UK Spouse Visa If You're Under 18
Acquiring a UK Spouse Visa under the age of 18 is a nuanced scenario. The primary stipulation for a Spouse or Partner Visa is that both partners must be 18 years or older. This age requirement is set to ensure the maturity and consent of the individuals involved. If you are under 18, it’s likely that you will have to wait until you reach this age threshold to apply. It’s crucial to abide by the legal requisites to ensure a smooth application process and uphold the integrity of the immigration system. Engage with legal professionals to understand your options and prepare for application once you meet the age criterion.
1.6
Bringing Your Dependents Under UK Spouse Visa
Navigating the path to bring dependents under a UK Spouse Visa entails a meticulous understanding of the stipulations set forth by UK immigration policies. Typically, dependents, such as children, can be included in your application. The financial threshold for eligibility increases with the inclusion of dependents – a notable rise of £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each subsequent child. It’s imperative to ensure that you meet the increased financial requirement to support your family’s living costs in the UK. This provision aims at fostering family unity while ensuring financial sustainability, thus paving a smooth path for your family’s transition to life in the UK.
02
After You Have Applied for the Visa
After applying for a UK Marriage Visitor Visa, await confirmation. It may take up to three weeks or longer, so be patient. Keep track of your application status online. Meanwhile, start preparing for your trip by researching about local customs, laws, and places you’d like to visit. It’s also essential to organise travel insurance covering health, travel delays, and losses. If you’ve not booked your flights and accommodations, wait and DO NOT buy ticket until your visa is approved to avoid potential losses. Remember to pack essential documents, including your passport with your visa, proof of financial sustenance, and return tickets. Lastly, make sure your passport validity extends beyond your travel dates.
Visa Fee and Processing Time
Embarking on this matrimonial journey begins with a fee of The application fee as of 2023 is £1,048 if applying from within the UK and £1,846 if applying from outside the UK. The processing time, as of 2023, ranges between 10 to 12 weeks, although a straightforward case might result in a quicker decision by the Home Office.
Tracking Progress on Your Visa Application
Though there is no standard and easy way to track your visa application, you can ask for the concerned authorities for an update on your visa application. But you should not expect a quick response.
Getting a Decision on the Visa Application
In most of the cases you are informed about the decision on your visa application by the email for which the email address you gave during your visa application, is used. If you have requested an SMS alert service, you will also get an alert about the completion of your visa application processing process through an SMS.
What to Do if the Visa is Refused
In this visa category you don’t get a right of appeal or an administrative review. This means that the only option for you is to try to remove the objection and apply again (unless you were refused with 720A).
Extending Your Stay Under the UK Spouse Visa
Extending your stay under the UK Spouse Visa is a procedure that allows you to continue living in the UK with your spouse or partner. This process requires you to meet certain eligibility criteria similar to those when you first applied, including proving your relationship’s genuineness and meeting the financial requirements.
It’s advisable to start the extension process well in advance of your current visa’s expiration to avoid any legal complications. Typically, you can apply for an extension 28 days before your current visa expires. The extension grants you a further leave to remain in the UK, usually for an additional 2.5 years.
During the extension process, you’ll need to provide updated documents reflecting any changes in your circumstances. It’s also a wise practice to maintain a clear record of your continuous residence in the UK.
Successfully extending your Spouse Visa not only affirms your eligibility but also takes you a step closer to obtaining settled status in the UK, making it a crucial step in your UK immigration journey.
FAQs
A: The processing time can vary, but it typically takes between 10 to 12 weeks from the date of application.
A: The cost can change over time, so it’s advisable to check the latest fees on the official UK government website.
A: Yes, you can travel outside the UK, but ensure your visa is valid for re-entry.
A: Initially, a 2.5-year probationary period is granted, after which you can apply for an extension.
A: You may need to notify the Home Office, and your visa status could be affected, potentially requiring you to leave the UK.
A: It’s possible in some cases, but it depends on your current visa type and other circumstances.
A: You’ll need to prove a basic knowledge of English, usually by passing a recognized English language test.
A: Various documents like marriage certificates, joint financial statements, or shared residential proof can help establish the genuineness of your relationship.
A: You might have the option to appeal the decision, or you may need to leave the UK.
A: Yes, dependent children can join you in the UK, but additional financial requirements will apply.