Marriage Visa UK Guide 2025

Section A: What is the UK Marriage Visa?

The phrase “marriage visa” is commonly used to describe the UK immigration route that allows non-UK spouses of British citizens or settled persons to live together in the UK. However, there is no official visa called a “marriage visa” in UK law. The correct category is the Family visa (partner route), which is set out in Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules. Under this route, married partners can apply to enter or remain in the UK, subject to strict eligibility criteria covering their relationship, finances and language ability.

Applicants and sponsors should be aware that the term “marriage visa” is also sometimes confused with the Marriage Visitor visa. These are very different visas. The Family visa (spouse visa) is designed for couples who want to live in the UK on a long-term basis and can lead to settlement. In contrast, the Marriage Visitor visa is a short-term route for couples who only intend to marry in the UK but not remain here afterwards.

1. Spouse Visa (Marriage Visa)

The spouse visa is the formal route for non-UK nationals who are married to a British citizen or a person with indefinite leave to remain, settled status or permanent residence. It allows the visa holder to live, work and study in the UK without restrictions, and it provides a pathway to settlement after five years. The initial visa is granted for 30 months and can be extended for another 30 months, provided the relationship continues to meet the Home Office requirements. After five years of continuous residence under this route, applicants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Eligibility is based on proving the marriage is genuine and subsisting, meeting the financial requirement, and satisfying the English language rule. These are the areas where most applications face difficulties, particularly where evidence is inconsistent, incomplete or not in the correct format. Applicants must also accept that if the relationship breaks down, their visa status is no longer valid, and they will need to secure alternative leave or depart the UK.

Read our detailed guide to the Spouse Visa here >> 

2. Fiancé Visa

The fiancé visa allows a non-UK national to come to the UK for six months with the purpose of marrying or entering into a civil partnership with their British or settled partner. The visa does not grant the right to work, and applicants must prove they intend to marry within the six-month period. Once married, they must switch to the spouse visa from within the UK. They cannot remain on a fiancé visa beyond the initial six months, nor can they extend it except in rare circumstances. Applicants must meet the same financial and relationship requirements as spouse visa applicants, as well as provide proof of suitable accommodation in the UK.

Read our detailed guide to the Fiancé Visa here >> 

3. Marriage Visitor Visa

The marriage visitor visa is intended only for couples who want to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK but who have no plans to settle here. It allows a stay of up to six months but does not permit work, study or switching into another visa category from within the UK. Once the visit is over, the applicant must leave the UK and return to their country of residence. If the couple later decides they want to live in the UK, the non-UK spouse must apply afresh for a spouse visa from overseas. Applicants must prove they have sufficient funds for their stay and that they intend to leave the UK at the end of the visit.

Read our detailed guide to the Marriage Visitor Visa here >> 

4. Key Differences Between Routes

The table below compares the three main visas often confused under the “marriage visa” label. Each has very different rights and restrictions, and choosing the wrong one can result in refusal or disruption to long-term plans.

Section B: UK Marriage Visa Requirements for Spouses

Applicants for a UK spouse visa must meet detailed eligibility criteria under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules. The Home Office applies these rules strictly, and most refusals stem from gaps or inconsistencies in evidence. The requirements focus on proving the relationship is genuine, showing the couple can be financially supported without recourse to public funds, and meeting the English language threshold. Transitional provisions may apply if the applicant is extending an existing visa granted before April 2024. Each of these areas requires careful preparation to avoid refusal.

1. Relationship Requirements

The foundation of a marriage visa application is the relationship evidence. The Home Office looks for proof that the marriage or civil partnership is genuine and subsisting, and not a sham designed for immigration purposes. Applicants must show:

• A legal marriage or civil partnership recognised under UK law.
• Evidence of regular contact, such as call records, messages and emails, showing the relationship is ongoing.
• Proof of cohabitation or visits, such as tenancy agreements, utility bills or travel records.
• Commitment to living together in the UK on a permanent basis. This can be supported by personal statements, photos from shared life events, or letters from friends and family confirming the relationship.

The Home Office applies close scrutiny to relationship evidence. Incomplete or inconsistent records can result in refusal. Couples should prepare evidence that covers the full duration of their relationship and explains any gaps in contact.

2. Financial and Income Thresholds

Financial requirements are a common barrier for applicants. As of April 2024, the UK-based partner must show a gross annual income of at least £29,000, or savings of £88,500, or a combination of both. If you applied before 11 April 2024 and are extending under transitional provisions, the lower £62,500 threshold may still apply.

The rules allow income from employment, self-employment, pensions and certain other sources. Savings must be held for at least six months before the application unless they come from the sale of property or investments.

Applicants applying under transitional rules – where the original spouse visa was granted before 11 April 2024 – may still use the lower £18,600 threshold plus additional amounts for dependent children. However, the combined total will not exceed £29,000. For example, an applicant with two dependent children would normally require £24,800 under the old rules, but under the transitional arrangements the maximum income threshold is capped at £29,000.

Financial evidence must be comprehensive. The Home Office requires specific documents depending on the income type. For employed sponsors, this includes at least six months of payslips and bank statements plus an employment letter. Self-employed sponsors must provide full tax returns, business accounts and bank evidence. Incomplete or mismatched evidence is one of the most frequent causes of refusal.

3. English Language Requirements

The spouse visa route requires applicants to demonstrate English language ability. Unless exempt, applicants must pass an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) at A1 level on entry. When applying to extend their visa after 2.5 years, applicants must meet A2 level. For Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years, the requirement increases to B1 level plus passing the Life in the UK Test.

Applicants are exempt if they are nationals of majority English-speaking countries (such as the USA, Canada or Australia), or if they hold a recognised degree taught in English. It is important to check that any degree is formally confirmed as English-taught by UK NARIC (Ecctis). Using a non-approved test provider or submitting an expired test certificate will lead to refusal.

4. Other Requirements

Applicants must also meet additional criteria, including:

• Valid passports: Both applicant and sponsor must hold current passports.
• Accommodation: Evidence of adequate accommodation in the UK, such as a tenancy agreement or mortgage statement. Overcrowding is not permitted under housing regulations.
• Tuberculosis testing: Applicants from certain countries must provide a TB clearance certificate from an approved clinic.

Failure to prepare evidence for these supporting requirements can delay or even undermine an otherwise strong application. Applicants should also note that visa holders will be subject to a “no recourse to public funds” condition, meaning they cannot access most UK welfare benefits during their time on the spouse visa.

Section C: UK Marriage Visa Application Process for Spouses

The application process for a UK spouse visa requires careful preparation, accurate documentation and strict compliance with Home Office procedures. Errors or omissions at any stage can cause delays or refusals. Applications can be made either from outside the UK (entry clearance) or from within the UK (switching or extension), provided the applicant is eligible. The key stages are set out below.

1. Step-by-Step Process

2. Supporting Documents

The Home Office requires specific documents for each part of the eligibility test. Missing or incorrectly formatted evidence is one of the most common reasons for refusal. Applicants should prepare:

• Passports: Current and valid passports for both applicant and sponsor.
• Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate: Proof that the marriage is legally recognised.
• Relationship Evidence: Photos, travel records, correspondence and joint financial records showing a genuine and subsisting relationship.
• Financial Evidence: Payslips, bank statements, employment letters or self-employment accounts showing income meets the required threshold. Savings evidence where relevant.
• Accommodation Evidence: Tenancy agreement, mortgage statement or property ownership documents, showing the property will not be overcrowded.
• English Language Evidence: Approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) certificate at the required level, unless exempt.
• Additional Documents: TB test certificate (if required), and documents relating to previous marriages or civil partnerships (divorce decree or death certificate).

5. Evidence checklist by category

Use this checklist to assemble documents for each eligibility area. Provide clear, consistent evidence that spans the relevant periods and ensure names, dates and figures match across all items.

3. Spouse Visa Application Fees and Costs

Applying for a marriage visa involves significant costs. Applicants should budget for both the visa fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, as well as optional faster processing services if available.

4. Processing Times

Standard processing can take up to 12 weeks from overseas or 8 weeks from inside the UK. Delays are common if documents are missing or inconsistent, or if the Home Office requires further checks. Priority and super-priority services can reduce waiting times but are not always available and should not be assumed as guaranteed. Applicants should apply as early as possible to avoid visa expiry or disruption to travel and family arrangements.

5. Practical Tips for Applicants

To improve the chances of success, applicants should:

• Organise documents clearly and provide translations for non-English materials.
• Check names, dates and details match exactly across all forms and evidence.
• Double-check financial evidence against the rules for the specific income type.
• Provide detailed, consistent relationship evidence covering the whole period of the relationship.
• Keep complete copies of the application and supporting documents for future reference.

Section D: Common Challenges with the UK Marriage Visa

Even when applicants appear to meet the rules on paper, many spouse visa applications fail because of the way evidence is prepared and presented. The Home Office applies a high level of scrutiny, particularly to financial and relationship evidence, and refusals can have long-term consequences for both the applicant and the UK sponsor. Understanding the most frequent pitfalls helps couples prepare a stronger case and reduce the risk of delays or rejection.

1. Insufficient Proof of a Genuine Relationship

The Home Office requires convincing evidence that the relationship is genuine and subsisting. Weak applications often rely on minimal documents, or provide evidence that is inconsistent or fails to span the length of the relationship. For example, applicants sometimes only submit a marriage certificate and a few photographs, which is rarely enough. Decision-makers expect evidence of regular communication, joint commitments such as tenancies or shared finances, and supporting statements explaining the history of the relationship. Couples who cannot show consistent contact or who fail to address periods of separation are at high risk of refusal.

2. Financial Requirement Failures

The financial threshold is one of the most common stumbling blocks. Problems arise where the sponsor’s income is just below £29,000, where payslips and bank statements do not match exactly, or where self-employed sponsors provide incomplete tax evidence. Applicants frequently overlook the strict rules about how long savings must be held or how income can be combined. Any inconsistency or gap in financial proof can result in outright refusal rather than a request for further evidence. Transitional rules are also complex, and sponsors who apply without understanding whether they fall under the old or new thresholds often submit the wrong evidence.

3. English Language Proof

English language refusals are common where applicants use test providers that are not approved by the Home Office, or where the certificate has expired by the time of application. Another recurring issue is where applicants assume that being educated in English is enough, but fail to provide formal confirmation from UK NARIC (Ecctis). These errors, though avoidable, often lead to unnecessary refusals.

4. Incorrect or Missing Documentation

Applicants sometimes underestimate how detailed the supporting evidence must be. Common problems include not providing tenancy agreements to prove accommodation, failing to translate foreign documents, or submitting incomplete travel history. Where documents are inconsistent or poorly organised, caseworkers may conclude the requirements have not been met, even if the underlying facts are valid.

5. Inaccurate or Contradictory Information

Discrepancies between the application form and the supporting evidence are a red flag for caseworkers. For example, where dates of cohabitation do not match tenancy agreements, or where travel records do not align with claimed visits. Even small inconsistencies can lead to doubts about credibility. Applicants need to cross-check every detail and ensure there is a consistent narrative across all evidence.

6. Consequences of Refusal

A refusal does not just delay the process; it can have lasting implications. A rejected application remains on the immigration record and may complicate future applications. In some cases, applicants may have a right of appeal to the First-tier Tribunal, usually under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (the right to family life). The refusal letters should specify if appeal rights exist, but it’s important to note appeals are not guaranteed in all spouse visa cases (only where family life rights are engaged). Also, appeals take time and carry costs, and in most cases the applicant is better advised to submit a fresh application that addresses the reasons for refusal. The safest strategy is to anticipate and avoid common pitfalls before applying.

Section E: Marriage Visa Refusal?

Even well-prepared applications can be refused if the Home Office is not satisfied that the requirements have been met. A refusal can cause disruption to family life, financial strain, and long delays in securing lawful status. Understanding the options after a refusal helps couples respond quickly and strategically, rather than losing valuable time. The best course of action depends on the reasons given in the refusal letter and the rights attached to that decision.

1. Refusal Letter

If a marriage visa is refused, the applicant will receive a written refusal letter setting out the grounds for the decision. Common reasons include lack of financial evidence, doubts over the relationship, or missing documents. The letter will also confirm whether the applicant has a right of appeal. The reasons for refusal should be read carefully and assessed against the evidence submitted. This document forms the basis for deciding on next steps.

2. Appeal Rights

Spouse visa refusals often carry a right of appeal under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects family life. Appeals are made to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). The process can take many months and involves presenting updated evidence and legal arguments. Appeals can be successful, but they are time-consuming and require detailed preparation. Most applicants use legal representation, as success often depends on demonstrating both compliance with the rules and the wider human rights impact of separation.

3. Reapplying

In many cases, reapplying is the quicker option, provided the issues that caused the refusal can be corrected. There is no mandatory waiting period before reapplying, but it is critical to address all the points raised in the refusal letter. For example, if financial documents were missing, the reapplication should include the full, correct set of evidence. Submitting another incomplete application will almost certainly lead to a second refusal, and repeated refusals can undermine credibility in future applications.

4. Administrative Review

Unlike points-based system visas, administrative review is not generally available for spouse visa refusals. The main options are either appealing to the Tribunal or submitting a fresh application. Applicants should not assume they can correct errors by requesting a review. Instead, they need to take careful stock of the refusal grounds and act decisively.

5. Strategic Considerations

Deciding between an appeal and a fresh application depends on several factors: the strength of the evidence, the urgency of the case, and whether there are wider family or human rights arguments to be made. Appeals are appropriate where the refusal is legally flawed or where separation would cause disproportionate hardship. Reapplications are often preferable where the initial evidence was incomplete but can now be corrected. In either case, couples should expect that the Home Office will closely scrutinise any new application after a refusal, and consistency with previous evidence is vital.

Section F: Rights and Responsibilities of UK Marriage Visa Holders

Securing a spouse visa allows non-UK partners to live with their British or settled spouse in the UK, but the visa carries both rights and responsibilities. Understanding what the visa permits, and the conditions attached to it, is crucial for avoiding breaches that could jeopardise future applications for extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

1. Rights of Marriage Visa Holders

Once granted, the spouse visa confers significant benefits that distinguish it from temporary routes such as the fiancé or visitor visa:

• Right to Live in the UK: The visa holder may reside with their UK partner for the full length of their visa grant (usually 30 months initially).
• Right to Work: Spouse visa holders can work in any job without restrictions, including self-employment, unlike many other visa routes.
• Right to Study: The visa allows full access to education in the UK without restriction.
• NHS Access: By paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), visa holders are entitled to use the National Health Service, although they may still pay prescription or dental charges.
• Pathway to Settlement: After five years of continuous residence under the partner route, applicants can apply for ILR, and later for British citizenship after at least 12 months of holding ILR (if other criteria are met).

The spouse visa therefore provides one of the most flexible immigration statuses for non-UK nationals, but it must be renewed at the 30-month mark before applying for ILR at the five-year stage.

2. Responsibilities of Marriage Visa Holders

Alongside these rights, holders of a UK spouse visa must comply with several important conditions:

• Living Together: The couple must live together in the UK in a genuine relationship. The Home Office may request updated proof, such as joint bills or tenancy agreements, when the visa is extended or when applying for ILR.
• No Recourse to Public Funds: Visa holders are barred from accessing most UK welfare benefits, such as Universal Credit or Housing Benefit. Breaching this condition risks visa cancellation.
• Continuous Residence: To qualify for ILR, absences from the UK must not exceed 180 days in any 12-month period. Extended absences can break the continuity of residence and reset the ILR timeline.
• Keeping Details Updated: Any change in address, marital status, or circumstances must be reported to the Home Office. Failure to update information can cause problems at renewal or ILR stage.
• Obeying UK Law: Criminal convictions or immigration breaches can lead to visa curtailment, refusal of extensions, or even deportation.

These responsibilities are strictly enforced. Applicants planning to apply for ILR or citizenship must be able to show a record of compliance throughout their time on the spouse visa.

3. Consequences of Non-Compliance

Breaching visa conditions can have serious consequences. The Home Office may curtail the visa if the couple are no longer living together, if the holder claims public funds, or if they commit a criminal offence. Non-compliance also affects future applications for ILR or citizenship, as past breaches can count against good character requirements. In the most serious cases, the Home Office has powers to cancel the visa and remove the holder from the UK.

Section G: Summary

The UK spouse visa, often referred to as a “marriage visa,” is the immigration route that allows non-UK partners of British citizens or settled persons to live together in the UK. While widely used, it is not an official visa category but part of the broader Family visa route under Appendix FM. The spouse visa offers significant benefits, including the right to live, work and study in the UK, but it also carries strict eligibility rules that focus on the genuineness of the relationship, financial stability and English language ability.

The application process is detailed and requires extensive evidence. Applicants must be prepared to prove every aspect of their relationship and financial situation, often with lengthy and carefully organised documentation. Fees are high, and the Immigration Health Surcharge adds a substantial cost over the five-year route to settlement. Processing times vary, and priority services are not always available, making preparation and timing critical. Refusals are common where evidence is incomplete or inconsistent, and while appeal rights exist, many couples choose to reapply with stronger documentation to avoid lengthy tribunal proceedings.

For those who meet the requirements, the spouse visa provides a pathway not only to Indefinite Leave to Remain but eventually to British citizenship. However, compliance is closely monitored throughout the process. Visa holders must live with their partner, avoid accessing public funds, and maintain continuous residence in the UK with no prolonged absences. Failure to meet these conditions can undermine extension or settlement applications and, in some cases, result in cancellation of leave.

Couples considering this route should approach the application as a long-term process rather than a one-off event. The Home Office applies strict standards of evidence, and any weaknesses at an early stage can resurface later at renewal or settlement. Careful planning, accurate documentation and ongoing compliance with visa conditions are therefore essential to achieving long-term security in the UK under the marriage visa route.

Section H: Need Assistance?

DavidsonMorris is a law firm specialising in UK immigration. We help individuals with their UK immigration needs, and can guide and support you through any Home Office process, including an application for a marriage visa UK. If you have a question about the Marriage Visitor visa, please contact us. Our team can assess your eligibility, advise on documents that carry weight, and address common refusal risks such as weak evidence of intention to marry, insufficient funds or doubts about plans to leave the UK after the ceremony. We also advise where the fiancé(e) or partner route is more appropriate if your aim is to remain in the UK after marrying.

Section I: FAQs

What is a UK marriage visa?

A UK marriage visa is an informal term for the spouse visa under the Family visa category. It allows the non-UK spouse of a British citizen or settled person to live in the UK, with the right to work, study and progress to settlement. If you are coming to the UK just to get married, you should look at the Marriage Visitor Visa.

How long is the marriage visa valid?

The initial grant is for 2.5 years (30 months). It can then be extended for another 2.5 years. After completing five years, the applicant can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Can I work in the UK on a spouse visa?

Spouse visa holders can work without restriction, including in self-employment, and can also study in the UK.

What is the financial requirement for a UK marriage visa?

For applications made after April 2024, the UK-based sponsor must show an income of at least £29,000 per year, or savings of £88,500, or a combination. Transitional rules may apply for those already on the route before April 2024.

Do I need an English language test?

Unless exempt, applicants must pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) at A1 level when first applying, A2 level when extending, and B1 level plus the Life in the UK Test when applying for ILR.

Can I switch to a spouse visa from another visa inside the UK?

In many cases, yes, provided you are not on a short-term visa such as a visitor or seasonal worker visa. Applicants on fiancé visas can switch once married. Those on a Marriage Visitor visa cannot switch and must apply from outside the UK.

What happens if my application is refused?

You will receive a refusal letter explaining why. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to appeal to the Tribunal under Article 8 family life grounds or reapply with stronger evidence. Administrative review is not generally available for spouse visa refusals.

What if my relationship breaks down?

If the relationship ends, you must inform the Home Office. Your visa may be curtailed, but in some cases, such as where there has been domestic abuse or the UK sponsor has died, you may still be able to apply for settlement independently.

Section J: Glossary

Section K: Additional resources and links