Most of the time, it can take up to three months to get a spouse visa. However, this can change depending on various factors. The current processing times are as follows:
Partner or spouse: 8 weeks (English language and minimum income required)
Partner or spouse – Private life: 12 months (English language and minimum income not required)
Parent: 12 months
Child: 8 weeks
The processing period for a UK spouse visa begins when you submit your online application and attend a VAC appointment to provide your biometric details.
PRIORITY AND SUPER PRIORITY SERVICE
Applying for your first Spouse Visa from abroad-
Standard applications from outside the country: 2-3 months
Priority applications from outside the country: 30 days (£500)
Applying to extend your Spouse Visa from the UK-
Standard applications from in country: 6-8 weeks (£500)
Super priority applications from in country: 1 working day (£1000)
Please understand that weekends, bank holidays, and state holidays are not workdays.
Acquiring a UK spouse visa depends on the time of year you apply, how full your application is and where you are applying from. Therefore, this helps you to gain an understanding on how long the process may take. However, it is important to understand that these are just averages and timings can vary due to many things, such as:
TIME OF YEAR
The amount of applications being submitted may change throughout the year. For example, large number of applications can be received at once, such as during holidays or major international events. This may result in a lengthier processing period for spouse visas in the UK due to higher demand.
COMPLETION OF THE APPLICATION
A well-prepared and completed application is key to speeding up the process. Applications that contain mistakes or are incomplete may require additional information to be requested and frequent checks will have to be made. Furthermore, delays may occur when there is insufficient evidence for the Home Office to make a decision. Therefore, it is best to seek expert advice first to minimise these risks.
SITUATION OF A PERSON
If a person has had legal or immigration problems in the past, verification checks would need to be carried out. This would result in a longer processing time.
What Happens If My Application For A Spouse Visa Is Denied?
You may appeal the decision if you believe anything went wrong or if you have additional evidence to support your case. When this happens, it is important to get legal assistance from a company such as EA Law.
How Long Does A Spouse Visa Last?
The UK spouse visa is typically issued for an initial length of 33 months. You would then seek to renew the visa for another 30 months. After the second time, you will be entitled as a spouse to apply for UK indefinite leave to remain.
What Documents Do You Need To Apply For Spouse Visa?
Your spouse visa application must contain documentation proving that your relationship and marriage are legitimate, as well as evidence of income, accommodation and an English language certificate, to fulfil the visa criteria.
If you would like further information or assistance with your Spouse Visa, please contact us on info@ealaw-solicitors.com or 02037861165.