Spouse Visa Solicitor London

If you are applying to bring your spouse or partner to the UK, or if you need to extend or appeal a spouse visa decision, Law and Justice Solicitors can help. We are experienced immigration solicitors with our head office in Wednesbury, West Midlands and a consultation facility in Ilford, East London, serving clients across London, the West Midlands, and throughout the UK.

Spouse visa applications are often more complex than they first appear. The Home Office applies strict financial, accommodation, and relationship requirements. A small error in your application or a gap in your supporting evidence can lead to a refusal. Our solicitors will guide you through every stage of the process to give your application the strongest possible chance of success.

What is a Spouse Visa?

A spouse visa, formally known as a UK Family Visa, allows an individual who is married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or settled person to live in the UK. It also covers unmarried partners who have been in a genuine relationship for at least two years.

The visa is initially granted for 30 months and can be extended for a further 30 months. After five years of continuous residence under this route, most applicants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Eligibility Requirements

• •You are married to, in a civil partnership with, or the unmarried partner of a British citizen or a person settled in the UK.
• •You and your partner are both aged 18 or over.
• •Your relationship is genuine and subsisting.
• •You intend to live together permanently in the UK.
• •Your sponsor meets the minimum income requirement of £29,000 gross per year (from April 2024).
• •There is adequate accommodation available for you and any dependants.
• •You meet the English language requirement.

Documents Needed

• •Valid passports for both the applicant and sponsor.
• •Evidence of the genuine relationship, such as photographs, correspondence, and call records.
• •Financial documents including payslips, bank statements, and P60 forms.
• •Evidence of accommodation in the UK.
• •English language test certificate or evidence of exemption.
• •Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
• •Additional documents are also required

The Application Process

The application is made online. An application fee is payable, along with the Immigration Health Surcharge. Supporting documents must be uploaded or submitted at a Visa Application Centre depending on where the applicant is located. Our solicitors will prepare your full application and advise you at every stage.

Spouse Visa Extensions

If you are already in the UK on a spouse visa and wish to extend your leave, you must apply before your current visa expires. We can assist you in preparing and submitting your extension application and ensuring that all requirements continue to be met.

Common Reasons for Refusal

• •Failure to meet the financial requirement.
• •Insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship.
• •Accommodation not meeting the required standard.
• •English language requirement not satisfied.
• •Previous immigration history or overstaying.

How Our Solicitors Help

We will assess your eligibility before you apply, draft any supporting statements required, and submit your application on your behalf. If your application is refused, we can advise on appeal or reapplication options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the financial requirement for a spouse visa in 2024?

From April 2024, the minimum income requirement is £29,000 gross per year. Our solicitors can advise on the current requirement and how to meet it.

How long does a spouse visa application take?

Applications outside the UK are typically decided within 12 weeks. Priority and super priority services may be available at certain locations. Applications inside the UK currently take around eight weeks.

What happens if my spouse visa is refused?

You may have the right to appeal to the First-tier Tribunal. We recommend seeking legal advice as soon as possible after a refusal.