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

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

How much does the TB test cost?

The cost varies by country but is typically between £50 and £150. The test is conducted at approved IOM (International Organization for Migration) clinics. Check with your local clinic for the exact fee.

How long is the TB test certificate valid?

The TB test certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. Your visa application must be submitted within this 6-month window. If the certificate expires before the visa decision, you may need a new test.

What happens if my TB test is positive?

If the initial screening suggests TB, you will be referred for further testing. If active TB is confirmed, you must complete treatment before a certificate can be issued. Treatment is typically free at the IOM clinic. Once treatment is complete and you are cleared, you receive the certificate.

TB Test for Spouse Visa: Countries, Clinics, and Process

Applicants from listed countries must get a TB test certificate before applying for a UK spouse visa. The test is a chest X-ray at an approved IOM clinic, costs £50-£150, and is valid for 6 months.

Do You Need a TB Test?

You need a TB test if you are applying from a country on the Home Office's TB testing list. The list includes countries with higher rates of tuberculosis. Common listed countries include:

India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka
Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa
Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam
China (some regions)
Many countries in the Middle East and Central Asia

Check the full list on GOV.UK. If your country is not listed, you do not need a TB test.

The Test Process

Find an approved IOM clinic in your country using the GOV.UK TB test page
Book an appointment (walk-ins may be available at some clinics)
Attend the appointment with your passport
The test involves a chest X-ray
Results are usually available the same day or within a few days
If clear, you receive a certificate

The test is not painful or invasive — it is a standard chest X-ray that takes a few minutes. The clinic will issue a certificate confirming you are clear of active pulmonary TB.

Cost and Validity

The cost varies by country but typically ranges from £50 to £150. The certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. Plan your timing so that your visa application is submitted within this 6-month window.

If the certificate expires while your visa application is being processed, the Home Office may ask you to submit a new test. To avoid this, get the TB test as close to your application date as practical — ideally within 1-2 months before applying.

If the Test Is Positive

If the chest X-ray suggests TB, you will be referred for further diagnostic tests (usually sputum tests). If active TB is confirmed:

You must complete a course of treatment before a clearance certificate can be issued
Treatment is typically provided at the IOM clinic (often free or at low cost)
Treatment duration depends on the type of TB but is typically 6-9 months
After completing treatment and being cleared, you receive the certificate

A positive result does not permanently prevent you from getting a visa — it means treatment must come first.

Finding an Approved Clinic

Only tests from approved clinics are accepted. The GOV.UK website lists approved clinics by country. Major cities in listed countries usually have multiple clinic locations. In some cases, you may need to travel to a major city.

See our country-specific guides for clinic information:

Next Steps

Check whether your country is on the TB testing list. If so, find an approved clinic and book your appointment. Get the test 1-2 months before you plan to submit your visa application.

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