UK Spouse Visa 2026: Bringing your spouse to live with you in the UK is possible, but it requires meeting specific requirements set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Whether you’re a British citizen, settled person, or on certain visa routes, this visa allows your partner to join you and stay long-term. This full guide explains relationship eligibility, financial and English language requirements, key costs, and how the settlement path works — helping you prepare a strong application in 2026 without unnecessary delays.
Relationship Requirements You Must Meet
To qualify for a UK Spouse Visa in 2026, you need to prove a genuine and subsisting relationship with your partner. Acceptable evidence includes a marriage or civil partnership certificate recognised by UKVI. If you are in a “long-term relationship,” you must show at least two years of cohabitation with joint financial responsibilities and shared address proof. You must also be living together at the time of application and intend to continue your life together in the UK.
Financial Requirements Explained
A key requirement is meeting the minimum income threshold. For most applicants, the UK sponsor must demonstrate a gross annual income of at least £29,000, or equivalent savings. If you have children who are dependants, the financial requirement increases to ensure you can support the whole family. Savings alone can be used to meet the requirement if they are above a certain level — generally £16,000 plus additional funds calculated based on income shortfall.
English Language Requirement
Spouses applying from outside the UK usually need to prove their English ability at at least A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This can be done by passing an approved English test or being a national of a majority English-speaking country. If your partner holds a degree that was taught in English, this can also be used as proof. Some exemptions apply for older applicants or those with certain medical conditions.
Application Process and Timelines
You’ll need to complete an online application, provide supporting documents (IDs, relationship evidence, finances, English test results), and attend a biometric appointment at your local visa application centre. You can apply from outside the UK or, in some cases, inside the UK as a switcher. Processing times vary, but standard decisions typically take around 8–12 weeks. Priority services are available in many locations for faster processing at an extra cost.
Costs and Health Surcharge
The UK Spouse Visa application fee is one of the main costs. As of 2026, applying from outside the UK usually costs around £1,846 per person. In addition to this, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) at roughly £1,035 per year per applicant, paid upfront for the visa duration. If you apply for a 30-month visa, you may pay around £2,070 IHS on top of the application fee. Dependants (children) will have separate fees and health surcharge too.
Path to Settlement and Indefinite Leave
Once granted, a UK Spouse Visa typically lasts for 30 months, after which you can apply to extend for another 30 months, provided you still meet the requirements. After a total of 5 years in the UK on a spouse visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — permanent settlement — if you satisfy continuous residence, English language and Life in the UK test conditions. After ILR, citizenship eligibility may follow under certain conditions.
Tips for Strong Applications
Provide clear, well-organised evidence. Joint bank statements, shared bills, travel history together, photos, and communication logs help strengthen the relationship proof. Make sure financial documents, payslips and employment letters align with UKVI expectations. Check English test bookings early, and pay attention to document translations if needed.
Conclusion
The UK Spouse Visa 2026 remains a structured process with clear but strict requirements on relationship authenticity, finances, English ability and future settlement planning. Meeting the income threshold, documenting your partnership thoroughly, and preparing for the IHS cost are key to a successful application. With careful planning, you can bring your spouse to the UK and build your life together toward settlement and long-term residence.
Final advice: Start early, organise your paperwork meticulously, and consider professional support for complex situations — this can significantly reduce delays and improve your chances of success.
Disclaimer: This guide is based on general UK immigration trends and publicly available information as of 2026. Official rules, fees and requirements can change, so always check the UK government’s immigration website or consult a qualified immigration adviser for the most current guidance.