Thinking of coming to the UK to live with your partner?

This is about the Spouse Visa. And then staying for good with ILR. ILR is like a forever home pass.

First Steps: The UK Spouse Visa

The UK Spouse Visa is for you. You must be married to a British citizen. Or in a civil partnership. Or your partner must have settled here. This visa lets you live with them in the UK. You can stay for about 30 months at first.

Then you can ask to stay longer. You can obtain an additional 30 months. This means you can stay in the UK for up to five years.

Your relationship needs to be real. It must be ongoing. You and your partner need to show you have enough money. This is a combined income of at least £29,000. You also need to understand English.

How Long to Wait? Spouse Visa in 2025

Waiting can be hard.

Here's a general idea of the time.
• Applying from outside the UK? It usually takes around 12 weeks.
• Applying from inside the UK? Expect about 8 weeks.

Need a faster decision? There might be options if you apply outside the UK.

• The Priority Service might help. It aims for a decision in 30 working days.
• The Super Priority service costs extra. You might get a decision the next working day.

This is not always available.
Remember that things can take longer. Missing papers can cause delays. Busy periods too.

Next: Staying Permanently with ILR

After 5 years in the UK on a Spouse Visa, you can apply for ILR. The term ILR refers to Indefinite Leave to Remain. It's similar to the United States Marriage Green Card. You can stay in the United Kingdom indefinitely.

Why is ILR good?

ILR gives you more freedom.

You can:

• Stay without more visas.
• Vote in UK elections.
• Claim benefits if you can.
• Travel freely.
• Apply for British citizenship after another 12 months.

How Long for ILR?

ILR usually takes longer than the Spouse Visa. You can expect a decision in about 6 months. This is after they get your application. And after you give your fingerprints and photo. It might take longer if they need more information. Or if they ask you to an interview.

To receive ILR, perform the procedures below:

1. Stay in the UK on a Spouse Visa for five years.
2. Ensure that you follow all ILR requirements.
3. Fill out the online form.
4. Pay the fee.
5. Book a biometrics appointment. This is at a UKVCAS site.
6. Send any documents needed by the Home Office.

Tips for a Smoother Journey:

• Apply as soon as possible.
• Review your application thoroughly. Ensure that it is complete.
• Collect necessary documentation early.
• Translate papers as needed. Make sure it's official.
• Maintain proof of your relationship's authenticity. Photos, texts, and invoices are helpful.
• Track your application. Answer questions fast. Also, check your junk mails!
• Consider engaging an immigration solicitor.

They can help you.


We hope this helps you better understand the process. It's a significant step, but you can do it with the appropriate information.

Remember that aid is accessible if you need it. Experienced Qualified UK Spouse Visa immigration lawyers can help you.

They can provide you personalized counsel.