So You’re Interested in Applying for a UK Spouse Visa

I’ve recently moved to London on a Spouse Visa which is formally known as a Leave to enter Visa. As I know from experience how difficult this process can be, I’ve decided to compile my findings from the past year, in an effort to hopefully make this process a bit easier for others. Disclaimer: I’m not an immigration lawyer or an advisor.

Related: What It Was Like for me  To Apply for a Uk Spouse Visa

 

What I have provided here is information that I’ve spent months researching on the UKVI website and also on the UK Yankee Forum (which I strongly recommend using if you are applying from the US!) Here’s the link. 

Related: An Expat Guide To Working in the UK

 

Please Pin For Later 🙂

 

What Is A UK Spouse Visa?

This visa allows me to work and live in the UK for 2.5 years under the sponsorship of my husband. Before its expiration, I have to reapply (this time from inside the UK). The UKVI website makes it seem like its an easy process but it’s quite the opposite. It is a straightforward process but one that can be emotional, financially and mentally draining for applicants. This is what it was like for me Part I and Part II.

Related: Ten Tips for Moving Abroad with Your Significant Other

 

What Are The Requirements?

You MUST apply from your home country

Your partner/spouse MUST be a British Citizen or settled in the UK

You will have to prove your relationship (photos, marriage certificate, a timeline of relationship and proof of communication and history of relationship)

Providing a marriage certificate only will not suffice

Your sponsor MUST meet the income requirement (More info here)

You MUST have proper accommodation upon your arrival

Have a good knowledge of English (certain countries like the USA are exempt)

You MUST meet strict income requirements (sponsor must make at least $25,000 for 6 months with the same employer in the UK for Category A)

Most Documents need to be ORIGINAL

 

 

How Much Does a UK Spouse Visa Cost?

The Application alone is $1900

NHS Surcharge is $800

Priority Fees $982 (This includes the courier service to and from Sheffield)

 

Total Cost for my Application: $3,682

 

Things I included in my Application:

• Cover Letter documenting our relationship and why I would like to relocate to the UK
• Appendix 4A
• Online Application
• Passport Photo
• Previous Passports/Current

 

Financial Evidence

1. Sponsor’s Letter from Employer
2. Sponsor’s Work Contract
3. Sponsor’s 6 months of Paystubs (Verified by Employer)
4. Sponsor’s Tax Information
5. Sponsor’s 6 months of Bank Slips (Stamped by Bank)

 

Accommodation Information:

1. Tenancy agreement
2. Property Photos
3. Copy of Deed
4. Owner’s Passport Copy

 

Marriage Information:

 

1. Marriage Certificate
2. Evidence of wedding (photos)
3. Family Support Letter
4. Proof Of Relationship:

Travel Tickets

Previous Lease Agreements

Flight Itineraries

Proof of Joint Finances and History of It

Email Communication (Recent and Throughout being away)

Call Log

   5. *Applicant’s Info (I’ve been told this wasn’t necessary but included it anyway)

         Letter from my Employers

My Payslips

Copies of my Professional Certifications

 

This is the official list from UKVI https://www.gov.uk/uk-family-visa/provide-information

 

Check Out These Posts for More on Living in the UK

What It Was Like to Apply for a Uk Spouse Visa

An Expat Guide To Working in the UK

What to Expect When Moving to London

23 Things Every American Should Know About Living in the UK