Applying for a UK Marriage Visa is one of the most common ways foreign nationals reunite or live permanently with their partners in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re married to a British citizen or someone who has settled status in the UK, this visa gives you the legal right to live, work, and eventually apply for permanent residence.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the UK Marriage Visa, including eligibility requirements, documents needed, step-by-step application process, fees, and processing times.

What is a UK Marriage Visa?

The UK Marriage Visa, also known as a Spouse Visa, allows the husband or wife of a British citizen or a person settled in the UK (for example, someone with Indefinite Leave to Remain or permanent residence) to live and work in the United Kingdom.

This visa falls under the Family Visa category and can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship, if certain conditions are met.

Who Can Apply for a UK Marriage Visa?

You can apply for a UK Marriage (Spouse) Visa if you meet the following conditions:

1. You are legally married to a British citizen or a person settled in the UK.
2. Both partners are 18 years or older.
3. You intend to live together permanently in the UK.
4. Your marriage is genuine and recognized by UK law.
5. You and your partner meet the financial requirements.
6. You meet the English language requirement.

UK Marriage Visa Financial Requirements

To prove that you and your partner can financially support yourselves without public funds, your partner (the sponsor) must earn at least:

• £18,600 per year (for you only)
• + £3,800 for your first child (if applicable)
• + £2,400 for each additional child

Financial requirement can be met through:

• Employment or self-employment income
• Savings (minimum £62,500 if income is not enough)
• Pension income
• Certain non-work income (like rental income or dividends)

English Language Requirement

You must prove your knowledge of the English language by either:

• Passing an approved English test (like IELTS Life Skills A1 or higher), or
• Holding a degree taught in English, or
• Being from an English-speaking country (such as the USA, Canada, or Australia).

Documents Required for UK Marriage Visa

You’ll need to submit original documents that prove your eligibility. These typically include:

1. Your valid passport
2. Your partner’s passport or residence permit
3. Marriage certificate
4. Proof of relationship (photos, chat records, call logs, joint bills, etc.)
5. Proof of accommodation in the UK
6. Proof of financial capability (bank statements, payslips, job letters)
7. Proof of English language proficiency
8. Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if applying from certain countries)

How to Apply for a UK Marriage Visa (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the application process easier:

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the UK government visa website at www.gov.uk and complete the online application form for a “Family Visa as a spouse or partner.”

Make sure all information matches your documents to avoid rejection.

Step 2: Pay the Application Fee and Healthcare Surcharge

• Application fee (outside UK): £1,846
• Application fee (inside UK): £1,048
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): around £1,035 per year

Step 3: Book and Attend a Biometrics Appointment

After submitting your form, you’ll be directed to a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide:

• Fingerprints
• Digital photo
• Supporting documents

Step 4: Submit Your Supporting Documents

You can either upload your documents online or take them along to your appointment (depending on the country you’re applying from).

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

Processing usually takes:

• 12 weeks if applying from outside the UK
• 8 weeks if applying from within the UK

You may get a faster decision if you pay for a priority service (available in some locations).

How Long Is a UK Marriage Visa Valid?

The initial visa is valid for 2 years and 9 months if applied from outside the UK, or 2 years and 6 months if applied from within the UK.

Before it expires, you can apply for an extension for another 2.5 years. After living in the UK for 5 years on this visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

What Happens After You Arrive in the UK?

Once your visa is approved:

• You’ll receive a 30-day entry vignette in your passport.
• You must enter the UK within that time.
• After arriving, you must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from a local post office.

Common Reasons for UK Marriage Visa Refusal

Many applications are refused for simple mistakes. Common reasons include:

• Missing documents or incorrect format
• Failure to meet financial requirement
• Relationship doubts (not enough evidence of genuine marriage)
• Incorrect or incomplete information in the form
• Failure to meet the English language requirement

💡 Pro tip: Double-check all documents and consider getting professional advice from an immigration expert before submission.

Can You Work on a UK Marriage Visa?

Yes! Once approved, you’re allowed to work and study freely in the UK. You can also start your own business or take up employment.

How to Extend or Switch to a UK Spouse Visa

You can extend your visa or switch from another visa type (for example, from a fiancé visa to a spouse visa) if you meet the same eligibility requirements.

The extension process is similar, but you’ll need to provide updated evidence of your relationship, accommodation, and finances.

FAQs About the UK Marriage Visa

1. How long does it take to get a UK Marriage Visa?
It usually takes 8 to 12 weeks depending on where you apply from.

2. Can I apply if I’m not yet married but engaged?
Yes, you can apply for a Fiancé(e) Visa, valid for 6 months, during which you must marry your partner in the UK.

3. Can I travel while my visa is being processed?
If you apply from outside the UK, avoid traveling until you get your decision. If you apply from inside, you must stay in the UK during processing.

4. Do I need to have children to qualify?
No, having children is not a requirement for a UK Marriage Visa.

5. Can I apply for permanent residence later?
Yes, after living in the UK for 5 years on a Marriage Visa, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a UK Marriage Visa can feel complex, but with the right documents and preparation, you can easily increase your chances of success. Always ensure your relationship evidence is genuine, your financial documents are accurate, and your application is consistent.

Whether you’re reuniting with your partner or planning to start a new life together in the UK, following this step-by-step guide will help you make your UK Marriage Visa application process smoother and stress-free.