The UK spouse visa, also known as the "family of a settled person" visa, is designed to allow non-UK residents to join their spouse or partner who is a British citizen or has settled status in the UK. This article provides a comprehensive guide to applying for the initial spouse visa and extending it, ensuring a smooth journey towards permanent residency.

Understanding the UK Spouse Visa

The UK spouse visa enables non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals to live with their spouse or partner in the UK. To qualify, applicants must meet several key requirements:

• Relationship: Applicants must be legally married to, or in a civil partnership with, a British citizen or someone with settled status in the UK. Unmarried partners must have cohabited in a relationship akin to marriage for at least two years.
• Financial Requirements: The sponsoring partner must meet a minimum income threshold, currently set at £18,600 per year. This threshold increases with dependent children: £22,400 for one child, plus £2,400 for each additional child.
• English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate their English language proficiency by passing an approved test at level A1 or higher or by holding a degree taught in English.
• Accommodation: There must be adequate accommodation for the applicant and their dependents, without relying on public funds.

Application Process for the UK Spouse Visa

1. Online Application: Start by completing an online application form on the UK government website. Create an account, fill out the form, and pay the visa fee.
2. Document Submission: Applicants must submit several documents, including:
   • Valid passport
   • Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or evidence of cohabitation for unmarried partners)
   • Proof of meeting the financial requirement (bank statements, payslips, etc.)
   • English language test certificate or degree certificate
   • Evidence of adequate accommodation (rental agreement, property ownership documents)
3. Biometric Appointment: Attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
4. Decision: After submitting the application and attending the biometric appointment, wait for a decision. Processing times vary, but decisions are typically made within 12 weeks.

Extending the Spouse Visa

The initial spouse visa is granted for 33 months if applied for outside the UK, or 30 months if applied for within the UK. As the initial visa approaches its expiry, applicants must apply for an extension to continue living in the UK.

Requirements for Extension

To extend the spouse visa, applicants must meet similar requirements as the initial application:

• Relationship: The couple must continue to live together in a genuine and subsisting relationship.
• Financial Requirements: The sponsoring partner must still meet the minimum income threshold.
• English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at level A2 or higher.
• Accommodation: There must still be adequate accommodation for the applicant and their dependents.