UK Family Visas
Spouse / Civil Partner Visa UK
The Spouse/Civil Partner visa is initially granted for a two (2) year probationary period and can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and British nationality.
If however, the couple have been married or have been in a civil partnership for at least four (4) years prior to lodgement of the application, an application for ILR can be made immediately.
At the time of submitting the visa application, applicants for a Spouse/Civil Partner visa must demonstrate that they are legally married to, or in a Civil Partnership with a partner who is a UK National or permanent resident. This person must be their genuine spouse/partner and the couple must intend to live together in the UK .
Spouse/Civil Partner Visa Basic Requirements
To obtain a Spouse/Civil Partner visa it is necessary for applicants to fulfil the basic prerequisites set out by the UK Immigration Authorities. Regardless of whether the application is made in the UK abroad, or if applicants are applying for an extension (where applicable), the main requirements are similar.
To qualify for an Entry Clearance or Further Leave to Remain application as a Spouse/Civil Partner for a two (2) year probationary period, there are basic requirements that must be met. Both parties must be at least 21 years old, have met and be legally married OR have undergone a civil partnership registration.
Applicants will also need to prove that their relationship is of a genuine and continuing nature.
Spouse/Civil Partner Visa Entitlements
The Spouse/Civil Partner visa is initially granted for a two (2) year probationary period. Visa holders have unrestricted permission to work or study in the UK and can also enter and leave the UK during this period without any further permission.
Upon completion of the two (2) year probationary period, visa holders may be entitled to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Holders of ILR under this category can apply for UK Nationality once they have been living legally in the UK for three (3) years with their spouse/civil partner.
Spouse/Civil Partner Visa Processing Time and Costs
| SPOUSE/CIVIL PARTNER | OUTSIDE THE UK (ENTRY CLEARANCE) | INSIDE THE UK (FLR) |
|---|---|---|
| Government Main Application Fee | UK£810 | UK£550 |
| Government Partner Application Fee | NA | NA |
| Government Child Application Fee | UK£810 | UK£275/550* |
| Advanced Migration Service | US$399 | |
| Premium Migration Service | US$1999 | |
| Processing Times | 1-12 weeks | 4-16 weeks |
* The reduced fee will be applicable when the dependent applies at the same time with the main applicant.
- Other Family Visas
-
-
Fiancée/Prospective Civil Partner Visa
The Fiancée/Prospective Civil Partner visa allows the partner of a UK citizen or permanent resident to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK. -
Unmarried Partner Visa
The Unmarried Partner Visa allows a committed partner of a UK citizen or permanent resident to settle in the UK. -
EEA Family Visa
The EEA Family Visa is specifically for family members of EEA nationals living in the UK to join their family member.
-
- Latest Immigration News
-
- UK Announces Local Biometric Clinic for Visa Applicants
The UK will provide visa applicants from Antigua & Barbuda with a local Mobile Biometric Clinic on May 18, 2012. - Russia Urges UK to Relax Visas
The UK should ease visa regulations for visitors from Russia, according to the Russian ambassador. - New Requirement on Human Rights for UK Visas Announced
Citizens from outside the European Union accused of serious human rights abuses would not be allowed to enter Britain after British immigration rules are changed, according to a report released by Foreign Secretary William Hague on April 30, 2012.
- UK Announces Local Biometric Clinic for Visa Applicants




