How do I apply for a UK spouse visa from outside the UK?

Apply online on the GOV.UK website, pay the application fee and IHS, upload your documents, and attend a biometrics appointment at a visa application centre in your country. The decision is communicated through the visa centre and a visa vignette is placed in your passport if approved.

How long does it take to get a spouse visa from abroad?

Standard processing takes 12 to 24 weeks depending on the country. Priority services may be available for faster processing. The timeline starts from your biometrics appointment, not from when you submit the online form.

Do I need to surrender my passport when applying?

In most cases, the visa application centre retains your passport during processing. Some centres offer a 'keep your passport' service for an additional fee, allowing you to retain your passport and return it only when the visa is ready to be applied.

What is the visa vignette and how long is it valid?

The visa vignette is a sticker placed in your passport that allows you to enter the UK. It is valid for 30 days. You must enter the UK within this 30-day window. After arrival, your full leave is confirmed through your eVisa or BRP.

Spouse Visa from Outside the UK: How to Apply

The overseas spouse visa application involves an online form, document upload, biometrics at a visa application centre, and a processing period of 12-24 weeks. This guide covers every step of the process.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare Your Documents

Before starting the online application, gather all required documents:

Valid passport
Marriage or civil partnership certificate (with translation if not in English)
Financial evidence meeting the £29,000 income requirement
English language test certificate (A1 level)
Relationship evidence
Accommodation evidence
TB test certificate (if required for your country)
Police certificate (if required)

2. Complete the Online Application

Apply through the GOV.UK family visa page. The form asks about your personal details, relationship, financial situation, accommodation, and immigration history. Take your time and answer accurately.

3. Pay Fees

Application fee: approximately £1,846
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year (paid upfront for the full visa duration)

See the cost guide for the complete breakdown.

4. Upload Documents

Most documents are uploaded online as part of the application. Scan or photograph them clearly. Ensure all pages are legible and complete.

5. Book and Attend Biometrics

After submitting the online application, book a biometrics appointment at your nearest visa application centre (VFS Global or TLScontact). Bring your passport and appointment confirmation. See the country hub for centre locations.

6. Wait for the Decision

Processing times vary by country but are typically 12-24 weeks. You can track your application status online. Do not make travel plans until you have received the decision. See the processing times guide.

The Visa Vignette

If approved, a visa vignette (sticker) is placed in your passport. This is valid for 30 days and allows you to enter the UK. You must travel to the UK within this window.

After arriving in the UK, your full leave to remain is confirmed through your eVisa. Set up your UKVI account to access your digital immigration status.

Priority Processing

Priority and super-priority services may be available depending on your location. These reduce the processing time significantly. See the priority service guide for availability and costs.

Common Issues

Vignette expiry: If you cannot travel within the 30-day vignette window, you can request a vignette transfer (for a fee). Do not let it expire without action.
Passport retention: Plan for being without your passport during processing. Consider the keep-your-passport service if available.
Document quality: Blurry scans or incomplete documents can delay processing. Ensure all uploads are clear and complete.

Next Steps

Prepare your documents, check any country-specific requirements, and start the online application. Allow plenty of time for the full process, including any TB test or English language test you need to take before applying.

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