The Spouse Visa is a popular option for those with partners in the UK or returning to the UK, as it offers 5 years of stay with an extension. This will allow those residing in the UK a clear path towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and eventually British Citizenship if it is desired.
Those pursuing ILR on a Spouse Visa after 5 years should ensure that they are complying with all of the terms of your Spouse Visa, while also meeting the additional requirements that must be met to live in the UK without a time limit.
It is important that you can prove you meet the requirements in a clear and convincing application, with all of the essential accompanying documentation and proof attached. Our team can help you do this, with incredible attention to detail and a tailored approach to each client and their own individual circumstances.
UK Spouse Visa 5-Year Route Requirements
The requirements for the 5-year route are generally achievable for most inside the stay allowed by their Spouse Visas. On top of meeting and continuing to meet all of the requirements for the Spouse Visa, an applicant must also meet the following criteria:
- Passing the Life in the UK (LUK) Test (unless exempt)
- Meeting the English language test or qualification requirements (unless exempt)
- Providing documentation proving you have fulfilled all the requirements for your Spouse Visa, including and not limited to subsisting marriage, financial, accommodation and residence
To learn more about exemptions for LUK test requirements, see our Life In The UK Test page. For exemptions on language requirements, see the Spouse Visa page.
If you do not meet 5-year Spouse Visa requirements
If you will not meet the requirements for indefinite leave to remain after 5 years of stay, you may be eligible to extend your Spouse Visa or switch to the 10-year route.
For the 10 years’ route, you will need to prove that there are exceptional circumstances in place that make it impossible for you to live outside of the UK. While visa-specific consultancy from an immigration lawyer is generally advisable, it is almost essential to successfully apply for this particular path.
Global Support from our London-based law firm
A multilingual, highly-rated, and award-winning consultancy offering stellar support is what you can expect from the team here at QC Immigration. If you want to pursue the 5-year Spouse Visa route we can make sure that your application is convincing and well-presented.
We can make it easier for you to live in the UK without time limitations or immigration control with our excellent services, so click here to get in touch today.
More guidance on Spouse Visa:
- Spouse Visa
- Spouse Visa 10-Year Route
- Spouse Visa Application
- Spouse Visa Appeal
- ILR through Spouse Visa
- Spouse Visa Lawyers’ Fees
- Spouse Visa UK Cost & Fees
- Spouse Visa Consultants
- Spouse Visa Guidance
- Spouse Visa Refusal Letter
- Spouse Visa Proof of Relationship
- Spouse Visa Mistakes in Application
- Spouse Visa: Separation or Divorce