Spouse Visa UK fees 2024 Explained

Applying for a spouse visa is a significant step for individuals looking to live in the UK with their partner. For most applicants, one of the key considerations will be the spouse visa fees.

In this guide to Spouse Visa UK fees, we set out the costs to expect when applying to come to the UK under the family route to live with your partner.

 

Section A: UK Spouse Visa Overview

 

While the term “spouse visa” is commonly used, it is important to recognise that in the UK, this route actually falls under the official, broader “family visa” category.

Family visas allow individuals to join family members who are already residing in the country. The family route encompasses various types of visas, including those for spouses, partners, children among and other family members.

Among these options, the spouse visa enables non-UK citizens to live with their British or UK-settled partner. It typically grants initial permission to stay for 30 months, after which holders can apply for an extension or for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if they meet the necessary requirements.

The applicant will have to pay certain fees each time they make an application to the Home Office, including the initial visa fees, fees to apply for an extension and fees for any eventual settlement application.

If your spouse visa application is refused, you will lose your application fee, meaning you will have to pay the fee again to reapply. This makes it important to check your eligibility before applying, and to ensure your submission is comprehensive and complete to avoid an unfavourable outcome.

 

1. Eligibility Criteria for Spouse Visa Applicants

 

To qualify for a spouse visa, applicants must meet several key eligibility criteria:

 

a. Relationship Requirements

The applicant must be married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with settled status in the UK. The relationship must be genuine and subsisting, meaning it is not a marriage of convenience.

Couples must have lived together for at least two years if they are not married or in a civil partnership.

 

b. Age Requirement

Both partners must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.

 

c. Financial Requirement

The sponsoring partner must meet a minimum income threshold, currently set at £29,000 per year. Applicants can demonstrate this income through employment, savings, or a combination of both.

 

d. English Language Requirement

Applicants must prove their knowledge of the English language by passing an approved English language test or by being a national of a majority English-speaking country or by holding an academic qualification taught in English.

 

e. Accommodation Requirement

Applicants must show that they have adequate accommodation in the UK that is not overcrowded and is suitable for the couple.

 

f. Good Character Requirement

Applicants must not have any serious criminal convictions and must meet the good character requirement as assessed by the Home Office.

 

Section B: UK Spouse Visa Fees 2024

 

As of 2024, the primary costs for a spouse visa include the visa application fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and potential additional expenses such as priority processing, document translation and legal fees.

 

1. Spouse Visa Application Fee

 

The visa application fee varies depending on whether you are applying from within the UK or from outside.

For spouse visa applications made from within the UK, the Home Office fee is £1,258. For spouse visa applications made outside the UK, it costs £1,846.

 

Table: Spouse Visa Application Fees

Cost Category	Apply Outside the UK	Apply in the UK
Cost if joining your partner, parent, or child	£1,846	£1,258
Cost for each dependant added to your application	£1,846 each person	£1,258 each person

 

These fees are subject to change, so it is advisable to consult the latest information on the official UK government website when making the application.

 

2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

The IHS grants applicants access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK. It is a mandatory fee, payable by visa applicants staying in the UK for longer than 6 months, with only limited exceptions.

The surcharge is payable at the time of the visa application.

The current rates are £1,035 per applicant per year of leave, or £776 per child or student per year of leave.

 

Table: Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Costs for Spouse Visa

Applicant Type	Duration of Leave	IHS Rate	Total IHS Cost
Adult Applicant	30 months (2.5 years)	£1,035 per year	£2,587.50
Child Applicant (if applicable)	30 months (2.5 years)	£776 per year	£1,940.00

3. Additional Costs

 

Beyond the primary fees, applicants should consider the following potential expenses:

 

a. Document Translation

If any supporting documents are not in English or Welsh, certified translations will be required. The cost varies depending on the number and complexity of documents.

 

b. Legal Fees

Engaging an immigration lawyer or adviser can provide guidance throughout the application process. Fees for legal services vary widely based on the complexity of the case and the professional’s rates.

 

c. Biometric Enrollment Fee

Applicants are required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) as part of the application process. The fee for this service is £19.20.

 

d. Priority Services

For expedited processing, additional fees apply. The Super Priority Visa service, for instance, costs £1,000 and aims to provide a decision by the end of the next working day.

 

4. How to Pay the Spouse Visa Fees

 

The UK Home Office accepts several payment methods for visa-related fees:

 

a. Credit or Debit Card: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are commonly accepted.

b. Debit Card: Visa Debit and Maestro are typically accepted.

c. Credit Card: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are commonly accepted.

 

To ensure your payment is processed without issues, double check to make sure all card information entered is accurate, including the card number, expiration date and security code. If your card is issued by a bank outside the UK, check it is authorised for international online transactions. Wherever possible, make the payment transaction over a secure and private internet connection to protect your financial information.

After payment, you should receive a confirmation email. If not, verify the payment status in your bank account and consider contacting your bank or the Home Office for assistance.

 

Section C: Additional Considerations

 

When applying for a UK spouse visa, applicants should not only consider the costs related to application processing, but also the broader financial implications. Proper budgeting can significantly ease the process and help applicants avoid unexpected financial burdens. In addition, recent changes to the salary threshold and potential future increases should be factored into financial planning.

 

1. Importance of Budgeting for the Spouse Visa Application

 

Budgeting for the spouse visa application is vital for several reasons. Understanding all associated costs—from application fees to additional expenses—enables applicants to allocate their finances effectively. This proactive approach helps prevent financial strain and ensures that funds are available when needed.

Insufficient funds can lead to delays in the application process, as applicants may struggle to cover the necessary fees or encounter unexpected costs. A well-thought-out budget can help avoid these scenarios.

The financial implications of moving to the UK extend beyond the visa application process. Applicants should also consider the cost of living in the UK, including housing, utilities, and daily expenses, to ensure they are financially prepared for their new life.

 

2. 2024 Increase in Spouse Salary Threshold

 

A key change to be aware of is the increase in the financial requirement for the spouse visa, which took effect from 11 April 2024. The salary threshold has now risen to £29,000.

It’s also important to remain informed about potential future changes. The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) is reviewing the salary thresholds and if their recommendations support the previous Conservative government’s plans, further increases could be implemented.

Applicants should stay updated on any announcements regarding salary threshold changes and adjust their financial plans accordingly to avoid future complications in the application process.

 

3. Potential Hidden Costs and How to Prepare for Them

 

In addition to the primary fees associated with the spouse visa, several hidden costs can arise during the application process. Being aware of these potential expenses can help applicants prepare more effectively:

 

a. Document Preparation Costs

If any of the required documents are not in English, certified translations will be necessary. Costs can vary widely depending on the number of documents and the service provider.

While some applicants choose to navigate the application process independently, others may seek legal assistance due to the importance of the application. Legal fees can vary based on the complexity of the case and the advisor’s rates.

 

b. Biometric Enrollment Fee

Applicants submitting biometrics will need to pay an enrolment fee, which is currently set at £19.20. This fee is an additional expense that should be factored into the budget.

 

c. Costs for Additional Services

If expedited processing is desired, applicants may incur additional costs. For example, the Super Priority Visa service can cost around £1,000, allowing for a quicker decision.

 

d. Living Expenses

After obtaining the visa, it’s essential to consider ongoing costs such as housing, transportation, and daily living expenses in the UK. Preparing a budget that accounts for these costs will help ensure financial stability once settled.

 

e. Health Insurance and Other Medical Costs

While the IHS covers access to the National Health Service (NHS), there may still be out-of-pocket expenses for non-covered services (such as dental services) or private healthcare.

 

4. Preparing for Hidden Costs

 

To prepare for these potential hidden costs, applicants can:

 

a. Conduct Research: Investigate the typical costs for document translations, legal fees, and living expenses in the area they plan to move to.

b. Create a Detailed Budget: Outline all known and potential costs, allocating funds accordingly and allowing for a buffer to accommodate any unexpected expenses.

c. Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with an immigration lawyer who can provide insights into possible hidden costs and assist with budgeting.

 

Section D: Summary

 

The spouse visa fees for 2024 are £1,846 if applying from overseas, or £1,258 from within the UK.

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) must also be paid, allowing access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.

For each dependent added to the application, the fees mirror those of the main applicant.

Applicants should also factor in potential additional expenses, such as document translations and legal advice, which can vary based on individual circumstances.

 

Section E: Need Assistance?

 

For specialist support with a UK spouse visa application, contact our immigration legal advisers.

 

Section F: FAQs

 

What is the cost of a spouse visa in the UK for 2024?
The cost of a spouse visa application in 2024 is £1,258 if applying from within the UK and £1,846 if applying from outside the UK. Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is currently £1,035 per applicant per year of leave.

 

How long does it take to get a spouse visa?
Processing times can vary, but standard applications typically take around 12 weeks when applying from outside the UK. Applications made from within the UK can take up to 8 weeks. Expedited processing options are available for an additional fee.

 

Can I work on a spouse visa?

Individuals on a spouse visa have the right to work in the UK without any restrictions.

 

What happens if my spouse visa application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons for the decision. Depending on the grounds for refusal, you may have the option to appeal or submit a new application addressing the issues raised.

 

Can I extend my spouse visa?
Spouse visa holders can apply to extend their visa for an additional 30 months. After five years of continuous residence in the UK, you may also apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

 

Do I need to prove my income for a spouse visa?
The sponsoring partner must meet a minimum income threshold of £29,000 per year. This requirement increases if there are dependent children involved. You can demonstrate this income through various means, such as employment, savings, or pension income.

 

Are there any English language requirements for the spouse visa?
Applicants must demonstrate a sufficient knowledge of English. This can be achieved by passing an approved English language test, being a national of a majority English-speaking country, or holding an academic qualification taught in English.

 

What documents do I need to provide with my application?
Typical documents include proof of the relationship (marriage certificate, photos, correspondence), proof of income (payslips, bank statements), proof of English language proficiency, and any necessary translations of documents not in English.

 

Can I apply for a spouse visa if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a spouse visa, but it may affect your application. Each case is assessed individually, and serious criminal convictions could lead to refusal based on the good character requirement.

 

How do I pay for the spouse visa application?
Payments can be made online using a credit or debit card during the application process. Ensure that your card is enabled for international transactions, and double-check all payment details before submission.

 

Section G: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
Spouse Visa	A type of visa allowing non-UK citizens to reside with their British or settled partner in the UK, part of the family visa route.
Family Visa	A category of visas enabling family members to join relatives in the UK, including spouse, partner, child, and parent visas.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A fee paid as part of the visa application, granting access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK.
Visa Application Fee	The fee charged to process a visa application, which varies based on the visa type and whether the applicant is applying from inside or outside the UK.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	A status granted to individuals allowing them to live and work in the UK without restrictions after a specified period of residence, typically after five years on a spouse visa.
Biometric Enrolment	The process of collecting biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) required for visa applications.
Financial Requirement	A criterion that requires the sponsoring partner to meet a minimum income threshold to ensure financial stability for the applicant.
English Language Requirement	A stipulation that requires visa applicants to demonstrate a certain level of English proficiency, usually through a recognised test or qualifications.
Document Translation	The process of translating official documents into English for visa applications, often requiring certified translations.
Caseworker	An official from the UK Home Office who reviews and assesses visa applications and supporting documentation.
Application Processing Time	The average duration it takes to receive a decision on a visa application after submission.
Priority Service	An expedited processing option for visa applications that allows applicants to receive a faster decision for an additional fee.
Civil Partnership	A legally recognised relationship between two individuals, similar to marriage, that may also qualify for the spouse visa.
Relationship Evidence	Documentation submitted with the visa application to prove the authenticity and subsistence of the relationship between the applicant and their partner.
Supporting Documents	Additional paperwork required to substantiate the visa application, including proof of relationship, income, and accommodation.
Overstaying	Remaining in the UK beyond the period granted by a visa, which can affect future visa applications and lead to legal consequences.
Marriage Certificate	An official document that proves a marriage has taken place, often required for spouse visa applications to establish the relationship.

 

Section H: Additional Resources

 

UK Government Official Family Visas Guidance
https://gov.uk/uk-family-visa
This is the official UK government website providing comprehensive information on family visas, including eligibility requirements and application procedures.

 

UK Visa and Immigration Forms
https://gov.uk/government/collections/uk-visa-forms
Access the official application forms for various UK visas, including the spouse visa, along with guidance notes.

 

UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Information
https://gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application
Detailed information about the Immigration Health Surcharge, including costs and how it works for visa applicants.

 

Visa Fees and Payment Information
https://gov.uk/government/publications/visa-regulations-revised-table/home-office-immigration-and-nationality-fees-31-january-2024
A breakdown of the current visa fees, including spouse visa costs and payment methods.

 

Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) Reports
https://gov.uk/government/organisations/migration-advisory-committee
Official reports and recommendations from the MAC regarding immigration policy, including salary thresholds and review updates.

 

UK Visa Application Process Overview
https://immigrationhandbook.co.uk/spouse-visa-application
A detailed guide to the spouse visa application process, including necessary documentation and tips for applicants.

 

Citizens Advice – Immigration and Visa Help
https://citizensadvice.org.uk/immigration
A resource providing free advice on immigration and visa matters, including family reunion visas.

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – Contact Information
https://gov.uk/contact-ukvi
Contact details for UKVI, where applicants can find assistance regarding their visa applications and related queries.

 

The Home Office – Family Migration Policy
https://gov.uk/government/publications/family-migration
Government policy documents outlining the rules and regulations regarding family migration, including the spouse visa.