How to properly apply for a spouse visa in the United Kingdom?

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Maiko Sergey Evgeniyovich

Lawyer

United Kingdom / Birmingham

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Publication date: 30.12.2025

Citizenship and residence, driving and transport, business and self-employment, visas and immigration, money and taxes, housing and local services, passports, travel and living abroad. And others. Except criminal ones.

The client (United Kingdom) planned to apply for a Spouse Visa to move to the United Kingdom. At first glance, the Home Office requirements seemed standard, but the client sought preliminary legal consultation to avoid refusal and potential financial losses.

Maiko, a lawyer with many years of experience in UK immigration law, conducted a detailed analysis of all the necessary documents and the conditions for submitting a spouse visa application.

During the review, the following issues were identified:

• Requirement to confirm the sponsor's minimum income (Financial Requirement), including salary and additional sources of income. The client had partially provided documents, but the total amount did not meet the Home Office requirement.
• Insufficient evidence of a genuine marriage (joint accounts, correspondence, photographs, travel records).
• Inconsistencies in document translations: some certificates were translated unprofessionally, which could have led to refusal.
• Missed deadlines for submitting certain medical certificates and police clearance certificates.
• Clarification needed for the preparation of the sponsor letter and ensuring that all submissions complied with Home Office formatting and content requirements.

Date of legal opinion: 12.11.2025

Result:

Thanks to Maiko’s legal support, the client:

• Successfully prepared a complete set of documents in accordance with Home Office requirements;
• Ensured correct confirmation of the sponsor’s financial capabilities, meeting the minimum requirements;
• Eliminated the risk of refusal due to incomplete or incorrectly prepared documents;
• Obtained a positive decision for the spouse visa without additional clarifications or repeated checks;
• Saved time and money by avoiding the need to resubmit the application and potential penalties for non-compliant documentation.

What you need to know when applying for a spouse visa in the United Kingdom ? 

1. Financial Requirements (Financial Requirement)
   The Home Office requires a minimum sponsor income of £18,600 per year for one applicant. Salary, bonuses, self-employment income, and other sources must be considered.
2. Documents proving a genuine marriage
   Photographs, joint bank accounts, correspondence, travel records, rental agreements, or shared property. The more evidence, the higher the chances of approval.
3. Document translation
   All documents not in English must have an official translation with the translator’s stamp and contact information.
4. Medical and criminal certificates
   Medical certificates (Tuberculosis Test Certificate, if applicable) and police clearance certificates must be submitted on time.
5. Sponsor letter and supporting documents
   The letter must clearly state financial capability, intention to live together, and willingness to cover expenses.

How to avoid refusal and financial risks ? 

1. Do not sign or submit the application without a full legal review of documents.
2. Verify the accuracy of all translations and their conformity with the originals.
3. Ensure the sponsor’s income meets Home Office requirements.
4. Gather as much evidence as possible of shared life and genuine marriage.
5. Submit medical and criminal certificates on time.

Additional steps for safely obtaining a visa

• Consult an experienced immigration lawyer before submitting the application.
• Check that all online forms are filled out correctly without errors.
• Document all agreements and legal contacts in writing.

If needed, use legal support during interviews or Home Office checks.

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