Spouse/partner visa refusals often come down to missing or inconsistent evidence, here’s what you need and what to avoid.

Your sponsor (partner in the UK) may be eligible to apply if they are a British or Irish citizen, or have settled status (including ILR), or have another eligible status (for example certain protection statuses).

UK spouse/partner visa requirements (quick overview)

• Qualifying relationship: spouse/civil partner, or unmarried partner (often evidenced by 2 years’ relationship/cohabitation, there are limited exemptions to this).
• Genuine and subsisting: you must show the relationship is real and you intend to live together permanently in the UK.
• Financial requirement: many applications must meet the Home Office “minimum income requirement” (usually £29,000 for new partner applications made on/after 11 April 2024), unless an exemption applies.
• Accommodation & English: adequate accommodation (no overcrowding), plus an English language requirement for most applicants (at least CEFR A1 for the first application).

3) How long is the visa valid and what’s the route to settlement?

If granted, partner permission is typically 33 months when applying from outside the UK (entry clearance) or 30 months when applying inside the UK. Many people extend once and then apply for settlement on the standard 5-year route, as long as they continue to meet the rules.

Common pitfalls that lead to refusals

• Financial documents don’t match (payslips vs bank statements, wrong dates, wrong category).
• Weak relationship timeline (not enough proof of living together/shared commitments).
• Inconsistencies in addresses, dates, names, or previous immigration history.

Spouse/partner visa document checklist (typical documents)

• ID & immigration status: passports and (if applying in-country) current UK status documents.
• Sponsor’s status: evidence your sponsor has the right status to sponsor (for example British/Irish passport, ILR/settled status documents, or other qualifying permission).
• Relationship: marriage/civil certificate (if applicable) and a small but strong set of evidence of shared life/cohabitation over time.
• Financial: the correct payslips/bank statements and employer/HMRC evidence for the category relied on.
• Accommodation & English: tenancy/ownership proof and English test/degree/exemption evidence (plus certified translations where required).

Note: Immigration rules and required evidence can change, and the right category depends on your circumstances, always check the latest Home Office guidance before you apply.

Need help preparing a strong application?

Our immigration department can assess eligibility, identify evidence gaps, and advise how to present your documents clearly in line with Appendix FM requirements. To book an initial free consultation contact our immigration team today on 01484 538 421 or info@ridleyandhall.co.uk.

Misbah Mohammed – Immigration Solicitor