UK family visa: spouse and partner requirements
The requirements for a UK family visa as a spouse, partner or family member of a British citizen or settled person.
- You must be in a genuine relationship with a British citizen or settled person.
- There is a minimum income requirement for the sponsor.
- You must prove English ability.
- The route can lead to settlement after the qualifying period.
What the family visa is
The UK family visa lets you join a partner, parent or child who is a British citizen or has settled status. It is the main route for spouses and partners coming to the UK.
It can lead to settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after the qualifying period.
Relationship requirement
You must be married, in a civil partnership, or in a genuine and subsisting relationship akin to marriage that has lasted at least two years.
You must provide evidence of the relationship, such as marriage certificate, cohabitation and shared financial commitments.
Financial requirement
The UK sponsor must usually meet a minimum income threshold. The amount changed in 2024, so confirm the current figure on GOV.UK.
Savings and some other income can count toward the requirement, and there are exemptions in certain cases.
English requirement
You must prove English ability, usually at CEFR level A1 or A2 for an initial application.
Nationals of certain English-speaking countries and applicants with a relevant degree taught in English may be exempt.
Path to settlement
After the qualifying period, you may apply for indefinite leave to remain, provided you still meet the requirements.
Keep records of cohabitation and income throughout, because settlement requires re-proving the relationship.