The UK Spouse Visa allows Pakistani citizens to join their spouse or partner who is a British citizen, settled in the UK, or holds indefinite leave to remain (ILR). Whether you’re planning to start a new life together or reunite with your partner, the process for obtaining a UK Spouse Visa can seem overwhelming. However, with the right guidance, you can navigate the application process smoothly. This blog will walk you through the UK Spouse Visa application process, eligibility requirements, and key documents needed for Pakistani applicants.

What is the UK Spouse Visa?

The UK Spouse Visa enables non-UK nationals to live in the UK with their spouse or civil partner. The visa is valid for 2.5 years and can be extended. After living in the UK for 5 years, you may become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which leads to permanent residency. If you’re a Pakistani citizen wishing to join your UK-based spouse, the spouse visa is the right route for you.

Eligibility Criteria for the UK Spouse Visa

Before applying for a UK Spouse Visa, it’s essential to ensure that both you (the applicant) and your partner (the sponsor) meet specific criteria.

1. Relationship Requirement

You must be legally married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen, an individual with settled status, or someone who holds indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK. The relationship must be genuine, and you will need to prove that your marriage or partnership is not a sham.

2. Financial Requirement

One of the most important criteria is meeting the financial requirement. Your UK-based spouse (sponsor) must have an income of at least £18,600 per year before tax. This threshold increases if you have children:

• For one child, the income requirement increases to £22,400.
• For two children, the income requirement increases to £25,200, and so on.

Alternatively, your sponsor can meet this requirement through savings or other financial assets. The minimum savings requirement is £62,500 if the sponsor does not meet the income threshold.

3. English Language Requirement

As part of the application process, you must demonstrate that you have a basic understanding of English. This can be done through:

• Passing an approved English language test.
• Providing evidence of an academic qualification taught in English.
• Showing that you are a national of a country where English is the primary language (Pakistan is not one of these countries).

4. Age Requirement

Both the applicant and the sponsor must be over 18 years of age to apply for the UK Spouse Visa.

5. Proof of Accommodation

You will need to prove that you and your spouse will have adequate accommodation in the UK. This could be a rental property, a house you own, or a place provided by your sponsor’s family. The accommodation should meet UK housing standards.

6. Genuine Relationship Test

The UK Home Office will want to be satisfied that your relationship is genuine and subsisting. You may be asked to provide:

• Photographs of you and your spouse together.
• Evidence of communication (texts, emails, call logs, etc.).
• Travel records (if applicable), showing that you’ve visited each other.

Documents Required for the UK Spouse Visa

To apply for a UK Spouse Visa from Pakistan, you’ll need to provide the following key documents:

1. Valid passport or travel document.
2. Marriage certificate or proof of civil partnership.
3. Proof of English language proficiency (English language test or qualifications).
4. Proof of financial requirements: This includes payslips, bank statements, tax records, or evidence of savings.
5. Proof of accommodation in the UK.
6. Evidence of a genuine relationship (photos, communication records, etc.).
7. Tuberculosis (TB) test results from an approved clinic (required for Pakistani applicants).
8. Proof of your partner’s UK immigration status (UK passport, ILR, or visa).
9. Additional documents: Depending on your situation, you may need other documents such as proof of your partner’s employment, property ownership, etc.

How to Apply for the UK Spouse Visa from Pakistan

The application process for the UK Spouse Visa consists of several steps. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth application:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before starting the application, ensure that both you and your spouse meet all the eligibility criteria listed above. Confirm that you meet the financial requirement, have the required documentation, and that your relationship is genuine.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

The UK Spouse Visa application is completed online through the UK government’s official website. Create an account, fill out the required forms, and submit your application. Make sure to answer all questions truthfully and accurately.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge

The application fee for the UK Spouse Visa varies based on the length of stay and other factors. In addition, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The IHS fee is typically around £624 per year for each applicant.

Step 4: Book and Attend the Biometrics Appointment

After submitting your online application, you will need to book a biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan. During this appointment, you will provide your fingerprints and a photograph, which will be used to create your biometric residence permit (BRP) if your visa is approved.

Step 5: Submit Supporting Documents

You will need to submit all your supporting documents (marriage certificate, financial proof, English proficiency, etc.) either online or at the VAC, depending on the guidelines provided. Ensure all documents are clear, authentic, and translated into English if necessary.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

After your biometrics and documents are submitted, the UK Home Office will process your application. This may take up to 12 weeks or more. You can check the status of your application online.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa

Once your UK Spouse Visa is approved, you will receive a decision letter and your visa. If approved, you will be granted a 2.5-year visa. Upon arrival in the UK, you’ll be issued a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).

After Your UK Spouse Visa is Granted

Once you arrive in the UK, you and your spouse can begin your life together. You can work or study during your stay. After 2.5 years, you may apply for a visa extension or apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if you meet the requirements.

Conclusion

Applying for a UK Spouse Visa from Pakistan requires careful preparation and understanding of the requirements. By following the steps outlined in this blog, gathering the necessary documents, and ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful visa application. If you wish to join your spouse in the UK and build a life together, the UK Spouse Visa is an essential step in making your dreams a reality.