What is UK Spouse and PR?

The UK Spouse Visa, also known as the Marriage Visa, allows the spouse or fiancé(e) of a UK resident to attain residency in the UK for a specified period. This visa falls under the UK family immigration policy, which includes several categories designed to help family members of UK residents settle in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for a UK Spouse Visa

• Relationship Requirement: You must be married to or in a civil partnership with a UK resident or be a fiancé(e) planning to marry or enter a civil partnership within six months of arriving in the UK.
• Genuine Relationship: You must prove that your relationship is genuine and subsisting.
• Financial Requirement: You and your partner must have a combined income of at least £18,600 per year. This amount increases if you have dependent children.
• Accommodation Requirement: You must have adequate accommodation for yourself, your partner, and any dependents.
• English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English.

How Long Can You Stay on a UK Spouse Visa?

A UK Spouse Visa is initially granted for 2.5 years (30 months). You can apply to extend your visa for another 2.5 years, and after living in the UK for 5 years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Benefits of a UK Spouse Visa

• Allows you to live and work in the UK.
• Access to the National Health Service (NHS).
• Your children can attend UK schools.
• After holding ILR for a year, you can apply for British citizenship.

What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is the status granted to individuals who have lived in the UK for a certain period under various visa categories. It allows them to live, work, and study in the UK without any time restrictions. After obtaining ILR, you can apply for British citizenship if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria for ILR

• You must have lived in the UK for a continuous period of 5 years under a qualifying visa category.
• You must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months during the qualifying period.
• You must pass the Life in the UK Test.
• You must demonstrate your English language ability.