Partner & Family Visas UK
Helping families reunite and build their lives in the UK. Understand minimum income requirements, accommodation rules, and relationship evidence under Appendix FM.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules allows British citizens and persons settled in the UK (holding Indefinite Leave to Remain or EU Settled Status) to sponsor their non-UK family members. Navigating these rules requires meeting strict relationship, financial, accommodation, and English language requirements.
Whether you are married, in a civil partnership, cohabiting as unmarried partners for at least two years, or engaged to marry in the UK, selecting the correct application route is essential to prevent costly refusals.
Routes in Partner & Family Visas
Spouse Visa
For legally married partners of British or settled persons.
Read guide →Civil Partner Visa
For civil partners recognized under UK law.
Read guide →Unmarried Partner Visa
For couples with at least two years of cohabitation or durable relationship.
Read guide →Fiance Visa
6-month visa to enter the UK and marry your partner.
Read guide →Child Visas
For children joining their British or settled parents in the UK.
Read guide →Parent of a Child Visa
For parents with sole responsibility or access rights to a British child.
Read guide →Adult Dependent Relative
For elderly or ill relatives needing long-term personal care.
Read guide →Key Requirements & Highlights
- Financial requirement: Sponsors must generally earn £29,000 per year (or have qualifying cash savings of £88,500).
- Genuine and subsisting relationship must be evidenced with joint financial, residential, and official documents.
- Adequate accommodation requirement without recourse to public funds.
- English language requirement at CEFR Level A1 for entry, rising to A2 for extensions and B1 for settlement.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- PreparationGather 6 months of payslips, bank statements, marriage certificate, and tenancy agreements.
- Online ApplicationSubmit online on GOV.UK, pay visa fee (£1,846 outside UK / £1,048 inside UK) and IHS (£1,035/year).
- BiometricsAttend biometric appointment to scan fingerprints and passport.
- DecisionDecisions take approximately 8 to 12 weeks for standard overseas applications (or 24 weeks without priority).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current minimum income requirement for a UK Spouse Visa?
Under Home Office rules implemented in April 2024, the standard minimum income requirement is £29,000 per year. This can be met through employment income, self-employment, pensions, or cash savings held for at least 6 months.
Can cash savings be used instead of income?
Yes. If you have no employment income, you can meet the requirement with £88,500 in cash savings held in an approved bank account for at least 6 consecutive months.
Need Guidance on Your Application?
Priyanshu Decodes provides clear route explanations, document planning, and consultation calls. For regulated legal advice or formal Home Office representation, always consult an IAA-registered adviser or an immigration solicitor.