What Is the UK Spouse Visa?
A UK spouse visa allows a non-UK partner to join their British or settled spouse in the UK, enabling them to live together in the country. This visa is essential for couples who want to maintain their relationship while one partner resides in the UK. The application process, however, is not without its costs, and understanding the total financial commitment is crucial before applying.
This article will walk you through the current costs associated with applying for a UK spouse visa, the various additional fees you may encounter, and the financial requirements you must meet to ensure a smooth application process.
Understanding the financial aspects of the UK spouse visa process will help you avoid surprises and allow you to plan ahead, ensuring that you and your partner are prepared for all the expenses involved.
Application Fees
When applying for a UK spouse visa, you will face several significant fees that vary depending on whether you are applying from outside the UK or already within the country. Let’s break these costs down:
Applying Outside the UK
If you’re applying for the visa from outside the UK, the current application fee is £1,846. This fee is required as part of the visa application process and must be paid at the time of submission. It covers the cost of processing your application and the administrative tasks associated with it.
Applying Inside the UK
If you are already in the UK and applying to switch your visa status to a spouse visa, the application fee is slightly lower. The cost is £1,048. This is a reduced fee because you are applying to extend your stay or switch visa types while still in the country.
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, and you should always verify the current rates on the official UK government website before applying.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
One mandatory cost that applicants often overlook is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This surcharge is designed to contribute to the NHS and gives you access to healthcare services during your stay in the UK.
Current IHS Rates
The IHS is currently set at £1,035 per year. Since a typical UK spouse visa is granted for 2.5 years, the total IHS cost for the duration of the visa would be £2,587.50.
It’s important to understand that the IHS is payable in full at the time of application and cannot be refunded, even if your visa application is unsuccessful.
Additional Costs
In addition to the application fee and IHS, there are other potential costs that applicants should be aware of. These costs may vary depending on your specific circumstances, but here are some common expenses you may encounter:
Priority Service Fees
If you want your spouse visa application to be processed more quickly, you can opt for the priority service. This service allows for faster processing of your application, typically within 5 working days, compared to the standard 8 weeks.
The priority service fee is £500, and it is an optional expense that can speed up the overall process. However, be aware that this service may not always be available in every country, so check with your local visa application center.
Document Translation and Certification Costs
If you are submitting any documents that are not in English (or Welsh), you will need to have them translated and certified. This includes marriage certificates, proof of financial status, and other essential documents. The cost of translation services varies widely depending on the number of documents and the complexity of the translation.
On average, you can expect to pay around £20 to £50 per document for professional translation services. Some documents may require additional certification, which could incur additional fees.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Fees
Applicants from certain countries are required to undergo a tuberculosis (TB) test as part of the visa application process. This is a requirement for those who are applying from countries where TB is prevalent.
The cost of a TB test varies by location but typically ranges from £40 to £100. The test must be taken at an approved clinic, and the results must be submitted as part of the visa application.
Secure English Language Test (SELT) Fees
Another potential cost is the Secure English Language Test (SELT), which is required for many applicants to prove their proficiency in English. The test costs approximately £150 to £200, depending on the provider and test location.
The test is mandatory if your partner’s nationality requires them to meet the English language requirement as part of the visa application. If you are applying for a spouse visa under the “English-speaking national” exemption (e.g., if you’re from a majority English-speaking country), this cost will not apply.
Hidden Costs and Tips to Avoid Them
While the major costs associated with the UK spouse visa are relatively straightforward, there are several hidden costs that applicants often overlook. These can add up quickly and impact your overall budget for the application process. Here are a few to watch out for:
Currency Conversion Fees
If you are applying from outside the UK, you may need to pay in British pounds, depending on the country you are applying from. If your bank or payment provider charges currency conversion fees, this can add an extra cost to your application.
To minimize this expense, consider using a no-foreign transaction fee credit card or a currency exchange service that offers favorable rates and low fees.
Travel Expenses for Biometrics Appointments
As part of the application process, you may be required to attend a biometrics appointment to have your fingerprints and photograph taken. In some countries, these appointments are not located in major cities, so you may need to travel a significant distance.
Be sure to budget for any travel costs associated with this requirement, including transportation, accommodation, and meals if necessary.
Document Preparation Costs
In addition to the translation and certification costs mentioned earlier, you may need to prepare other supporting documents, such as financial statements, bank letters, or employment verification letters. The cost of gathering and preparing these documents can vary depending on how quickly you need them, especially if you need professional assistance from an immigration solicitor or consultant.
Financial Requirements
One of the most significant factors that influence the total cost of your UK spouse visa application is the financial requirement.
Minimum Income Threshold
The UK Home Office has set a minimum income threshold of £29,000 per year for the sponsor (the British or settled spouse) to be able to support their partner. This means that if your spouse does not meet the minimum income requirement, they will need to show savings to make up the shortfall.
For example, if the sponsor’s income is below £29,000, the couple can show savings of at least £62,500 to meet the requirement. This savings must be held in the sponsor’s account for at least 6 months before applying.
This financial requirement can have a significant impact on your ability to submit a successful application and should be factored into your budget planning.
Refund Policy
It’s important to note that application fees are generally non-refundable. This means that if your spouse visa application is refused, you will not receive a refund of the £1,846 (or £1,048) application fee, nor will you receive a refund for the Immigration Health Surcharge.
The only exception is if your application is withdrawn before the decision is made, in which case you may be able to request a partial refund. However, refunds are not guaranteed, and it is important to thoroughly prepare your application to avoid any issues.
Conclusion
Applying for a UK spouse visa involves several fees and potential additional costs, including the application fee, Immigration Health Surcharge, and expenses for document translation, priority service, and tests. These costs can add up quickly, so it is essential to carefully consider your budget and ensure you meet all the necessary financial requirements.
By understanding the costs involved and planning accordingly, you can help ensure a smooth application process for you and your partner. Be sure to check the official UK government website for the most up-to-date information on application fees, health surcharge rates, and other requirements.
