Our Expert Immigration Team has recently been successful in securing a Spouse Visa for our client (“the Applicant”). The Applicant is a Pakistani national who sought our assistance in obtaining a Spouse Visa. He came to our firm seeking assistance in making an in-country application. He previously held a rejection for a UK Visitor Visa. We made strong legal representations in order to secure a successful application. The Applicant was granted a visa within 24 hours of attending his biometrics appointment.

How Can I Meet The UK Spouse Visa Requirements?

The main requirements for a UK spouse visa are:

• The applicant must be married to, or in a civil partnership with, a person who is present and settled in the UK, or who is a British citizen
• The applicant must be able to demonstrate that their relationship is genuine and subsisting
• The applicant must meet the English language requirement
• The applicant must have enough money to support themselves without needing public funds
• The applicant must meet the accommodation requirement
• The applicant must not pose a security or criminal threat to the UK.

How long does it take to approve a UK Spouse Visa?

The processing time for a UK spouse visa can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the volume of applications received by the UK Home Office and the completeness of the application. However, on average it takes around 6-8 months from the time of application to receive a decision.

It’s important to note that it’s highly recommended to apply as early as possible, because it will take some time for the Home office to process the application and also for you to gather all the required documentation.
Also, priority service and super priority service are available with extra fees, which can reduce the waiting time.

It’s also important to bear in mind that this is just an estimate and actual processing times can be different based on individual case and circumstances. If the case is complex or the Home office has any doubts about the authenticity of the relationship, the processing time could be longer.

Is It Difficult To Get A UK Spouse Visa?

The process of obtaining a UK spouse visa can be quite complex and time-consuming, and there is no guarantee that the visa will be granted. The requirements for the visa are strict, and the applicant must be able to provide a significant amount of documentation and evidence to support their application. The UK government also has a duty to conduct checks to ensure that the relationship is genuine and that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria. This process can take several months, and in some cases, it may be denied.

It is advisable to seek professional help when preparing your application. This can increase your chances of success, and minimize the risk of your application being denied due to errors or omissions. Contact Lexvisa for further advise on the merits of your case.

In this success story, the client opted to switch from his UK Student Visa to a Spouse Visa since he is married to a British Citizen. At Lexvisa, we can assist in preparing and filing a fresh application. We also provide services in preparing and lodging appeals and applying for an administrative review, where necessary. We are with you every step of the way.

Can I Switch From A Student Visa To A Spouse Visa?

Yes, it is possible to switch from a student visa to a spouse visa in the UK, but there are certain conditions that must be met.

To be eligible to switch to a spouse visa, you must be married to, or in a civil partnership with, a person who is present and settled in the UK, or who is a British citizen. Your marriage must be recognised by the laws of the country it was conducted in. Your partner must also meet certain income requirements and provide a sponsorship letter and declarations.

You must also meet the eligibility criteria for a spouse visa, which includes the English language requirement, enough money to support yourself without needing public funds and not pose a security or criminal threat to the UK. There are several general grounds for refusal in the Immigration Rules, and it is for you to establish that your application does not fall for refusal based upon them. As part of our instruction, we prepare detailed legal representations in order to establish this on your behalf.

Additionally, it is important to note that you will need to apply for the spouse visa before your student visa expires, otherwise you will be considered an overstayer and this can have serious implications for any future UK immigration application.

Why instruct our specialist Immigration Solicitors?

Our team of solicitors and barristers represent your interests at all times. On initial consultation, our highly competent team will advise you regarding your immigration status and assist with your application from the very beginning.

We are based in the legal epicenter of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients. LEXVISA is just minutes away from the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation. Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.

Authored by Tehreem Fatima, Paralegal