The processing time for UK Spouse Visa applications can vary depending on individual circumstances. Generally, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) aims to process these visa applications within 12 weeks of receipt.
Provided you are a genuine couple with evidence of your relationship and that you meet all of the requirements, it's not difficult.
New rules for UK Spouse Visa: the minimum salary requirement has increased to £29,000 on 11 April 2024. The Spouse Visa UK, part of the UK family visa category, allows eligible foreign nationals to join and live with their partner in the UK, provided their partner is a British citizen or has settled status.
The UK requirements for a Spouse Visa are some of the most challenging to meet. To prove that you are eligible, you will have to provide extensive documents showing your genuine relationship. Your UK partner will have to earn over £29,000 a year (figure correct as of late 2024).
If you apply inside the UK and you meet the financial requirements and English language requirements, you'll usually get a decision within 8 weeks. If you apply inside the UK and you do not meet the financial requirements and English language requirements, it currently takes about 12 months to get a decision.
In 2024, the UK government introduced new changes to the spouse visa minimum income threshold, impacting those applying to bring their non-UK partners into the country. From 11 April 2024, the spouse visa income requirement increased from £18,600 to £29,000 per year for sponsors.
How Soon Will I Get a Response? On average, the processing time for a spouse visa is normally up to 90 working days for standard applications (those not using premium application services).
Using the 'priority service' means you'll usually get a decision within 5 working days, or 30 working days for Family visa applications from outside the UK. Using the 'super priority service' for visa and settlement applications means you'll usually get a decision by the end of the next working day.
The validity period of a spouse visa is a crucial aspect that determines the duration of stay granted to the visa holder in the host country. To meet the requirements, the 28-day rule mandates that maintenance funds must be held consistently in the applicant's account for a continuous 28-day period.