The United Kingdom is one of the most popular destinations for immigrants around the world. It has a diverse culture, vibrant cities, and a robust economy. If you are considering moving to the UK, one of the easiest ways to do so is by marrying a British citizen.
In this article, we will explore the legal requirements for obtaining a visa to live in the UK as a spouse of a British citizen. We will discuss the various stages of the application process, the costs involved, and the rights and benefits available to spouses of British citizens.
Legal Requirements
To live in the UK as a spouse of a British citizen, you must meet certain legal requirements. These include:
- Proof of Marriage: You must provide evidence that you are legally married to a British citizen. This can be in the form of a marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate.
- Finance: You must demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and your partner without recourse to public funds. The amount required varies depending on your circumstances, but it is usually around £18,600 per year.
- English Language: You must be able to speak and understand English at a basic level. This can be proven by taking an approved English language test.
- Accommodation: You must have suitable accommodation for you and your partner in the UK.
- Good Character: You must not have any criminal convictions or pose a threat to national security.
Application Process
The application process for a spouse visa involves several stages. Firstly, you must complete an online application form and pay the relevant fees. Next, you will need to attend a biometric appointment where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. You will also need to submit your supporting documents, such as your marriage certificate and bank statements.
Once your application has been submitted, it will be processed by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department. This can take several months, so it is important to apply well in advance of your planned move to the UK.
If your application is successful, you will be granted a visa for a period of 30 months. After this time, you can apply for an extension for a further 30 months. Once you have completed five years on a spouse visa, you may be eligible for settlement in the UK.
Costs Involved
The cost of applying for a spouse visa can be significant. As of 2023, the current fees are:
- £1,523 for the initial application
- £1,033 for the extension application
- £2,389 for settlement
In addition to these fees, you will also need to pay for any English language tests and biometric appointments.
Rights and Benefits
As a spouse of a British citizen, you will have certain rights and benefits. These include:
- The right to work in the UK.
- Access to healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS).
- The ability to study or enrol in vocational training courses.
- The right to apply for public funds such as housing benefits and tax credits.
- The ability to apply for citizenship after a certain period of time.
Conclusion
Marrying a British citizen can be a relatively straightforward way to move to the UK. However, there are strict legal requirements that must be met, and the application process can be lengthy and expensive. If you are considering applying for a spouse visa, it is essential to seek professional advice to ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria.
