UK Spouse Visa Eligibility Criteria (2026)

The allows married or civil partners of British citizens or settled persons to live in the UK. To qualify, applicants must meet strict eligibility requirements under Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules. These include proof of relationship, financial stability, English language ability, and suitable accommodation.

Who Can Apply For UK Spouse Visa

You may be eligible to apply for a Spouse Visa if:

• You are legally married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), refugee status, or humanitarian protection.
• You and your partner are both aged 18 or over.
• You intend to live together permanently in the UK.
• You can meet the financial, English language, and accommodation requirements.

Relationship Requirement

The relationship must be genuine and subsisting. Evidence may include:

See: Proof of Relationship for Spouse Visa (2026) for acceptable examples of evidence.

• Marriage or civil partnership certificate recognised under UK law.
• Joint bank statements, tenancy agreements, or utility bills.
• Travel history and photographs together.
• Ongoing communication (emails, chat logs, call records).

Financial Requirement (Appendix FM)

Applicants must show a minimum annual gross income of £29,000 (updated April 2026) or adequate savings to meet the threshold. The financial requirement can be met through employment, self-employment, pension, or savings.

For full details and calculator examples, visit Financial Requirement for Spouse Visa (2026).

English Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate English language ability at CEFR Level A1 or higher by providing one of the following:

Learn more about exemptions and approved test providers in English Language Requirement for Spouse Visa (2026).

• A recognised English test certificate from an approved SELT provider.
• An academic qualification taught in English (e.g., UK or majority-English degree).
• Nationality from an English-speaking country.

Accommodation Requirement

You must prove that you and your partner will have adequate accommodation in the UK without overcrowding or recourse to public funds. Evidence may include:

• Tenancy agreement, mortgage statement, or property ownership documents.
• Letter from landlord confirming permission to reside.
• Home inspection report (recommended where space is limited).

Additional Requirements

• You must not fall under the general grounds for refusal (e.g., previous immigration breaches).
• Applicants from countries listed under UK TB testing requirements must provide a valic tuberculosis test certificate.

Application Location

• Outside the UK (Entry Clearance): Apply online before travelling. See: How to Apply for a Spouse Visa Outside the UK.
• Inside the UK (FLR(M)): Switch or extend within the UK if eligible. See: Applying Inside the UK (FLR(M)).

After You Apply

You’ll need to attend a biometric appointment and submit your supporting documents digitally via VFS Global or TLS Contact. Processing times typically range from 8–12 weeks depending on location and priority service selection.

About This Page

Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team

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