How long does a UK spouse visa take from India?

Standard processing from India typically takes 12 to 24 weeks. Processing times can vary by season and application volume. VFS Global centres in major Indian cities handle biometrics. Priority services may be available for faster processing.

Do I need a TB test for a UK spouse visa from India?

Yes. India is on the list of countries requiring a TB test. You must get a certificate from an approved IOM clinic in India. Clinics are available in major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

Where can I take the English language test in India?

IELTS Life Skills (A1) tests are available through the British Council and IDP IELTS centres across India. Test centres are located in most major cities. Book well in advance as test dates fill up quickly, particularly in high-demand locations.

Do I need to submit original documents from India?

Documents are generally uploaded online. You need your original marriage certificate (with certified English translation if in a regional language), passport, and other supporting documents. Keep originals safe as the Home Office may request them.

UK Spouse Visa from India: Complete Guide 2026

Applying for a UK spouse visa from India requires a TB test, English language test at A1, and standard spouse visa documentation. This guide covers the India-specific process, VFS Global centres, document preparation, and estimated processing times.

The Application Process from India

The spouse visa process from India follows the standard application from outside the UK with some India-specific considerations. India is one of the highest-volume countries for UK family visa applications, and the process is well-established.

Steps:

Get your TB test at an approved IOM clinic
Take the English language test at A1 level
Complete the online application on GOV.UK
Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
Upload supporting documents online
Attend a biometrics appointment at a VFS Global centre
Wait for the decision

TB Test in India

India is on the Home Office's list of countries requiring a TB test. IOM clinics operate in multiple Indian cities. The test involves a chest X-ray and costs approximately INR 3,500. The certificate is valid for 6 months.

Book your TB test early — clinics in major cities can have waiting lists, especially during peak application periods. Find your nearest approved clinic on the GOV.UK TB test page.

English Language Tests

For an initial spouse visa, you need A1 English. Approved tests include:

IELTS Life Skills (A1): Available at British Council and IDP centres in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Pune, and other cities
Trinity College London GESE: Available at approved centres

Book 4-6 weeks in advance. Popular test dates fill up quickly. See the English language guide for exemptions (nationals of majority English-speaking countries, holders of English-taught degrees).

Document Preparation

Key documents for Indian applicants:

Marriage certificate: Hindu Marriage Act certificates, Muslim Nikah Nama, Christian marriage certificates, or registered marriage certificates. Provide a certified English translation if the certificate is in a regional language.
Birth certificate: From the municipal corporation or registrar of births and deaths.
Passport: Valid Indian passport with sufficient blank pages.
Police clearance: If required, obtain a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from the Passport Seva Kendra.
Translations: All documents in Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, or other regional languages must have certified English translations.

Financial Evidence

The financial evidence is based on the UK sponsor's income. The Indian applicant's income in India generally does not count for the initial application. The sponsor must meet the £29,000 income requirement through their UK income and/or savings.

Indian bank accounts can be used for the savings element if the savings are in a recognised bank and statements are provided in English (or with certified translations). See the sponsor income guide.

VFS Global Centres in India

Biometrics appointments are at VFS Global centres. Major centres include:

New Delhi
Mumbai
Chennai
Kolkata
Bangalore
Hyderabad
Chandigarh
Ahmedabad

Premium services (lounge, document review, courier) are available for additional fees. Book your appointment promptly after submitting the online application.

Processing Times from India

Standard processing from India takes 12-24 weeks. India is a high-volume processing location, and times can extend during peak periods. Priority services may be available — check the priority service guide for current availability and costs.

Do not book flights or make irreversible arrangements until your visa is approved. See the 2026 processing times guide.

Relationship Evidence for Indian Couples

The Home Office assesses whether the relationship is genuine. For arranged marriages, the Home Office recognises this as a legitimate cultural practice. However, you still need to demonstrate that the relationship is genuine and subsisting — evidence of communication, visits, and plans together is important. See the relationship evidence guide.

Next Steps

Book your TB test and English language test. Prepare your documents and translations. Ensure the UK sponsor has their financial evidence ready. Apply online and attend biometrics at your nearest VFS Global centre.

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