Does the spouse visa process differ by country?

The core requirements are the same regardless of where you apply from. However, some countries require additional steps such as TB tests or police certificates. Processing times also vary by location, and the availability of English language test centres and biometrics appointments differs.

Which countries require a TB test for the UK spouse visa?

Many countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Eastern Europe require a TB test. The full list is published on GOV.UK. Common countries include Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and South Africa.

Where do I attend my biometrics appointment?

Biometrics are collected at VFS Global or TLScontact visa application centres in your country. Most countries have at least one centre in the capital city, with some having additional centres in other major cities.

Are processing times the same for all countries?

No. Processing times vary by visa application centre and can be affected by local application volumes, staffing levels, and seasonal patterns. Some countries consistently have longer processing times than others.

Spouse Visa Country-Specific Guides: Apply from Your Country

The UK spouse visa process has country-specific variations including TB tests, police certificates, and different processing times. This hub page explains the main differences and links to detailed guides for the most common applicant countries.

Country-Specific Guides

We have detailed guides for the countries that generate the most UK spouse visa applications:

If your country is not listed, the general applying from outside the UK guide covers the process. The country-specific considerations below will help you identify any additional requirements.

TB Test Requirements

A tuberculosis test is mandatory for applicants from countries on the Home Office's TB testing list. This includes most countries in South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.

The test must be conducted at an approved clinic (usually an IOM clinic) and is valid for 6 months. See our TB test guide for the full process. The GOV.UK TB test list shows all listed countries.

Police Certificates

Some spouse visa applications require a police certificate from your country of origin and any country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. The requirement depends on the specific application circumstances.

Police certificate processing times vary by country — some issue them in days, others take weeks. Plan ahead and apply for your certificate well before you submit your visa application.

English Language Test Centres

Approved English language test centres (IELTS Life Skills, Trinity College) are available in most countries but concentration varies. Major cities usually have multiple centres, while rural areas may require travel.

In high-demand countries (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh), test centres can have long waiting lists. Book your test as early as possible. See the English language requirement guide for the list of approved tests and exemptions.

Processing Times by Region

Processing times vary by visa application centre. As a general guide:

South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka): Typically 12-24 weeks
Africa (Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya): Typically 12-24 weeks
Southeast Asia (Philippines, Thailand): Typically 8-20 weeks
Middle East: Typically 8-16 weeks
Americas: Typically 6-12 weeks
Europe (non-UK): Typically 6-12 weeks

These are rough estimates and can vary. See the processing time guide for more detail, and check whether priority processing is available from your location.

Document Translation

All documents submitted with your application must be in English or Welsh. If your documents are in another language, you must provide a certified translation. Requirements for certification vary, but the translator must:

Confirm the translation is accurate
Provide their credentials and contact details
Date and sign the translation

Use a professional translation service rather than asking a friend or family member, as the Home Office may question the accuracy of informal translations.

Visa Application Centres

Biometrics are collected at VFS Global or TLScontact centres. Most countries have centres in the capital city, with additional centres in some major cities. Premium services (lounge access, document checking, courier services) are available at most centres for additional fees.

Find your nearest centre on the GOV.UK centre finder.

Next Steps

Check whether your country requires a TB test. Find out where your nearest English language test centre and visa application centre are. Plan your timeline based on the estimated processing times for your region.

Related guides: