UK Spouse Visa Lawyers

Love Knows No Boundaries: Your Path to a UK Spouse Visa Starts Here!

Are you looking to bring your spouse to the UK to live with you? Or perhaps you are a British citizen or permanent resident seeking to join your partner in the UK? Whatever your situation may be, navigating the complex and constantly changing immigration laws in the UK can be a daunting task. That's where experienced and dedicated UK spouse visa lawyers like Ali & Barrow Solicitors come in.

Our team of immigration specialists has helped countless couples reunite and start their lives together in the UK. We understand that every case is unique and requires an individualized approach. With our knowledge, expertise, and attention to detail, we can guide you through the spouse visa application process and increase your chances of success.

Fill out our online contact form or call us at 0203 998 3200 today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced UK spouse visa lawyers. Let us help you bring your loved ones together in the UK.

What is a Spouse Visa?

A spouse visa, also known as a UK marriage visa, allows non-EEA nationals who are married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or permanent resident to enter and live in the UK. This type of visa falls under the category of Family Visas and is typically granted for an initial period of 33 months. After this initial period, the visa can be extended for another 30 months, followed by permanent residency.

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UK Spouse Visa Eligibility Requirements

Genuine and Subsisting Relationship

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Applicants must prove they are in a genuine and subsisting marriage, civil partnership, or long-term relationship with their UK-based sponsor.

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If not already married, the couple should be planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within 6 months of the visa being granted (for Fiancé Visas transitioning to Spouse Visas).

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Generally, evidence of living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years prior to application can support the claim.

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Acceptable evidence includes marriage certificates, shared financial responsibilities, communication records, or proof of cohabitation.

Financial Requirements

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The UK-based sponsor must meet a minimum gross annual income of £29,000.

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For dependent children, the required income increases by £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.

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Alternatively, sufficient savings (usually £88,500) can be used to meet this requirement.

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Documentation such as pay slips, tax returns, and bank statements are needed for verification.

Accommodation Standards

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Applicants must demonstrate access to adequate accommodation that meets UK living standards without relying on public funds.

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Proof may include a tenancy agreement, property deed, or accommodation inspection report.

English Language Proficiency

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Applicants must pass an approved English language test at the A1 level or present evidence of a degree taught in English.

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Exemptions exist for nationals of majority English-speaking countries or in particular circumstances such as disability.

Legal Eligibility

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Applicants should have no significant criminal record and may need to provide a police clearance certificate from countries resided in for more than 12 months.

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Applicants from certain countries are required to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test.

Specific Documentation

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Both the applicant and sponsor must provide valid passports or travel documents.

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Supporting documents should include comprehensive evidence of the relationship, financial capacity, and living arrangements.

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Any inconsistencies or missing documentation can cause delays or refusals.

Meeting these eligibility criteria thoroughly, including requirements related to time spent living together or being engaged, strengthens the likelihood of a successful application. Couples should provide clear evidence of their intent to build a future together in the UK.

Essential Documents for a UK Visa Application

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Filled Out Application Form and Fee Payment: Ensure the application form is fully filled out and the required visa fee is paid.

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Valid Passport: A current passport with sufficient validity for the visa application.

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Previous Travel Documents: Any old passports that include travel history or visas.

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Proof of Genuine Relationship: Evidence showing the authenticity of your relationship, such as shared utility bills, photos, letters, or message exchanges.

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English Language Proficiency Evidence: Documents such as an approved English test certificate (CEFR level) or proof of a degree taught in English.

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Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent colored photographs meeting UK visa guidelines.

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Financial Proof: Documentation to demonstrate you meet the income or savings requirements, such as bank statements, employment payslips, or savings account documents.

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Details of Previous Immigration Applications: Information about past visa applications, if applicable.

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Criminal Record Information:Details of any convictions or penalties, supported by appropriate documentation.

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National Insurance Number: Provide your NI number if you already have one.

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Proof of Accommodation: Documents confirming where you will live in the UK, such as tenancy agreements or property ownership certificates.

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Biometric Data: Fingerprints and a digital photo, usually provided at a visa centre.

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Tuberculosis Test Results: Medical certification proving you are TB-free if you’re from a country requiring this test.

Compiling these documents thoroughly and accurately will help ensure a smooth visa application process.

UK Spouse Visa Fees

The cost of a UK spouse visa varies depending on where the application is submitted and any additional services chosen. Below is a breakdown of the fees for 2024:

Application Fee:
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£1,258 for applications made within the UK.

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£1,846 for applications submitted outside the UK.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
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£1,035 per year, payable as part of the application process.

Biometric Fee:
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£19.20 to provide fingerprints and a digital photograph.

Super Priority Service (Optional):
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£500 for expedited decision within 5 working days.

Extending a UK Spouse Visa

If you are already in the UK on a spouse visa and wish to extend your stay, you will need to apply for an extension before your current visa expires. The requirements for an extension are similar to those for the initial application, including providing proof of ongoing relationship and financial support.

Once approved, an extended spouse visa is usually granted for another 2.5 years. After continuously living in the UK with a spouse visa for five years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.

How Can Our UK Spouse Visa Lawyers Assist You?

Facing a UK Spouse Visa rejection can be disheartening, but it’s important to stay proactive and focused on your next steps. Here’s what you should do to address the issue and improve your chances of success moving forward:

Review the Refusal Notice

Carefully read the rejection letter to understand the specific reasons for your visa denial. The notice will outline where your application fell short, whether it’s missing documents, insufficient evidence, or unmet requirements. Identifying these reasons is crucial for planning your next steps.

Address the Issues Raised

Once you know why your visa was rejected, gather additional evidence or documentation to resolve these concerns. For example:

  • If financial evidence was insufficient, ensure you include comprehensive and current bank statements, pay slips, or savings evidence.
  • If the relationship evidence was lacking, provide more detailed proof like dated photographs, correspondence records, and joint bills.Take every effort to address the gaps highlighted in the refusal notice.

Decide on Reapplying or Appealing

Reapply: If you can remedy the issues quickly, submitting a stronger, more complete application may be the best approach. Double-check your documents, ensure forms are correctly filled out, and provide clear, organized evidence.

Appeal the Decision: If you believe your application was unfairly refused, you might be able to challenge it by appealing to the First-Tier Tribunal. Appeals are applicable only in certain circumstances, such as alleged errors in decision-making or breaches of human rights.

Seek Professional Legal Advice

Immigration rules can be complex, and missteps in the process can lead to repeated rejections. Consider working with a qualified UK Spouse Visa lawyer who can analyse your case, strengthen your application, and guide you through the appeal or reapplication process.

Consider the Administrative Review Process

If you believe an error was made in the assessment of your application but do not wish to appeal, you might request an administrative review. This involves a different caseworker examining your application to determine if the original decision was incorrect

Prepare Thoroughly for the Next Submission

Take your time to ensure your next application is as strong as possible. Include all required documentation, address every concern from the previous refusal, and write a strong cover letter explaining how you now meet all the criteria. Accuracy and attention to detail are key.

Be Mindful of Deadlines

Whether reapplying, appealing, or requesting an administrative review, pay close attention to the deadlines. Missing these can limit your options for challenging the refusal.

A rejection doesn’t have to mean the end of your goal to secure a UK Spouse Visa. By carefully addressing the refusal reasons and seeking expert advice, you can improve your chances of success in the future.

How Can Our UK Spouse Visa Lawyers Assist You?

Navigating the UK Spouse Visa application process can be challenging, but with the help of experienced immigration lawyers, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Here’s how our UK Spouse Visa lawyers can support you:

Benefits of Professional Help

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Save Time and Reduce Stress
Understanding and complying with immigration rules can be overwhelming. Our UK Spouse lawyers take care of the details so you can focus on your plans.
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Avoid Mistakes
A poorly prepared application is a common reason for visa refusal. With professional support, you’re less likely to overlook crucial details or submit incomplete evidence.
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Increase Your Chances of Success
With their expertise and experience, our UK spouse visa solicitors significantly improve the likelihood of a positive outcome for your visa application.

With professional legal support, you can confidently approach your UK Spouse Visa application and ensure you’re fully prepared to meet the necessary requirements.

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Talk to a UK Spouse
Visa Solicitor Today!

Contact Ali & Barrow Solicitors today to discuss your UK Spouse Visa application. Our experienced immigration lawyers are here to provide expert guidance and support throughout the entire process. Call us at 0203 998 3200 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a successful visa application.

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