UK Spouse Visa from Pakistan: Complete Guide
Pakistan is one of the highest-volume countries for UK spouse visa applications. This guide covers the Pakistan-specific requirements and practical steps, including TB tests, English language testing in Pakistani cities, and document preparation.
- Section
- Spouse & Partner Visa
- Reading time
- 10 min
- Last checked
- 2 September 2026
- Source
- The published Immigration Rules and GOV.UK guidance, linked throughout this guide.
- Rowan does not
- Look at your own case, tell you which route to choose, or say what the Home Office will decide. This guide shows the published rules and where to read them.
In short
- TB test mandatory — approved clinics (IOM and AMC) in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Mirpur.
- English tests at British Council centres across Pakistan.
- VFS Global centres in Islamabad and Karachi for biometrics.
- The GOV.UK service standard for a partner visa from outside the UK is 12 weeks.
- Documents in Urdu need certified English translations.
Pakistani applicants need a TB test, English language test at A1, and standard spouse visa documentation. This guide covers the Pakistan-specific process including VFS Global centres, document preparation, and processing times.
Application Process from Pakistan
The process follows the standard overseas application with Pakistan-specific requirements. Pakistan is a high-volume country for UK family visa applications, and the process is well-established.
TB Test in Pakistan
Approved IOM clinics operate in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Mirpur, and approved AMC clinics in Islamabad and Lahore. The test involves a chest X-ray and the certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of the X-ray. Book early, especially in Mirpur where demand is high. Find the nearest clinic on the GOV.UK TB test page.
English Language Test
IELTS Life Skills (A1) is available through British Council centres in major Pakistani cities. Book 4-6 weeks in advance. See the English language guide for test details and exemptions.
Documents
- Nikah Nama: The marriage certificate with certified English translation
- NADRA documents: National Identity Card (CNIC) or NICOP as relevant
- Passport: Valid Pakistani passport
- Police certificate: If required, from the relevant police authority
- Translations: All Urdu documents need certified English translations
Financial evidence is based on the UK sponsor's income. See the income requirement guide.
Processing Times
The GOV.UK service standard for a partner visa from outside the UK is 12 weeks, though some applications take longer. The Mirpur route historically has some of the highest volumes. Check whether priority processing is available. See processing times 2026.
Relationship Evidence
Provide thorough evidence of your genuine relationship. The Home Office recognises arranged marriages as legitimate but still assesses genuineness. Include communication records, photographs, visit evidence, and family statements. See the relationship evidence guide.
Next Steps
Get your TB test and English language test. Prepare documents and translations. Apply online and book biometrics at VFS Global.
Related guides:
Questions and answers
How long does a UK spouse visa take from Pakistan?
The GOV.UK service standard for a partner visa applied for from outside the UK is 12 weeks. Processing times can vary and some applications take longer. VFS Global centres in Islamabad and Karachi handle biometrics appointments.
Do I need a TB test from Pakistan?
Yes. Pakistan is on the TB testing list. You must get a certificate from a Home Office-approved clinic. IOM clinics are available in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Mirpur, and AMC clinics in Islamabad and Lahore.
Where can I take the English test in Pakistan?
IELTS Life Skills (A1) is available through the British Council in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and other cities. LanguageCert, Pearson and PSI Services are the other providers approved for tests taken outside the UK; Trinity College London tests can only be taken inside the UK. Book well in advance.
Is a police certificate required from Pakistan?
A police certificate may be required depending on your circumstances. Obtain it from the relevant police authority or through the Pakistan Embassy. Processing can take several weeks.
This guide is general information about published immigration rules. It is not advice about an individual application under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, and Rowan is not regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority. Immigration rules change several times a year. For advice on a particular situation, contact an adviser authorised by the Immigration Advice Authority or an immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.