Applying for a UK Spouse Visa Inside the UK (2026)

If you are already in the UK on a valid visa, you may be able to apply to switch to or extend a UK Spouse Visa using Form FLR(M). This allows eligible partners of British citizens or settled residents to remain in the UK for 2 years and 6 months. This guide explains how to apply, what documents to prepare, and what to expect after submission — updated for October 2025.

Who Can Apply Inside the UK?

You may apply from within the UK if you currently hold a visa type that allows switching to the Spouse Visa route. Eligible applicants include those who:

If you are outside the UK, refer to Applying for a Spouse Visa Outside the UK (2025).

• Hold a valid visa of more than six months’ duration (e.g., Skilled Worker, Student, or Graduate visa).
• Are married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
• Have not overstayed their current visa.

Eligibility Criteria

All applicants must meet the core requirements under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules:

For details, see Eligibility Criteria (2025).

• Relationship: Genuine and subsisting marriage or partnership.
• Financial: Minimum income threshold of £29,000 per year or sufficient savings.
• Accommodation: Adequate housing available without public funds.
• English Language: CEFR level A2 or above for in-country applications.

How to Apply Using Form FLR(M)

For a full document list, review our Spouse Visa Documents Checklist (2025).

• Complete the online FLR(M) form on GOV.UK.
• Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
• Book an appointment at a UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) centre.
• Upload your documents online or use the in-centre scanning service.
• Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).

Application Fees

As of 2025, the fees for in-country Spouse Visa applications are:

FLR(M) Fees and Processing Times

Application Type

Fee (GBP)

Processing Time

Standard FLR(M) Application

£1,048

Up to 8 weeks

Priority Service (optional)

+£500

5 working days

Super Priority Service (limited)

+£1,000

Next working day

Documents You’ll Need

Applicants should prepare the following evidence before submitting Form FLR(M):

Full details can be found in the Documents Checklist (2025).

• Valid passports for both applicant and partner.
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
• Proof of income — payslips, bank statements, or savings evidence.
• Proof of accommodation — tenancy or ownership documents.
• English language test certificate at CEFR A2 or above.

After You Apply

Once submitted, your visa status is protected under Section 3C of the Immigration Act while awaiting a decision. If approved, you’ll receive:

When nearing expiry, you can apply to extend your Spouse Visa (FLR(M)) to continue your stay.

• An eVisa (digital immigration status accessed via your UKVI account) confirming permission to stay for 2 years and 6 months — physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) are no longer issued.
• Permission to work and study in the UK.

Common Refusal Reasons

See Common Spouse Visa Refusal Reasons (2025) for prevention tips.

• Incomplete financial evidence or insufficient income.
• Failure to upload supporting documents correctly.
• Expired English test or TB certificate.
• Incorrect fee or missing IHS payment confirmation.

People Also Asked

Can I switch to a Spouse Visa from a Student Visa?

Yes, if you are legally in the UK and meet all eligibility and relationship requirements.

Can I work on a Spouse Visa after switching?

Yes, once approved, you can work and study without restriction.

How long does FLR(M) processing take?

Standard decisions take up to 8 weeks, or 5 working days with the Priority Service.

When should I apply to extend my visa?

Apply no earlier than 28 days before your current Spouse Visa expires.

About This Page

Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team

Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor