Spouse/partner Visa Entry Clearance: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re married to a British Citizen or an individual settled in the UK (holding ILR), you can apply for entry clearance as a spouse under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules. To qualify for entry clearance as a spouse of a British Citizen or a settled person, you must meet the following criteria:
Key Requirements:
1. Suitability Criteria: Fulfil the suitability criteria as outlined in the Immigration Rules.
2. Genuine Relationship: Be in a genuine and subsisting relationship with a British Citizen or a settled person in the UK.
3. Financial Requirements: The UK spouse must earn at least £29,000 per year (from employment, self-employment, or other sources) or have savings of £88,500.
4. Adequate Accommodation: Ensure you have adequate accommodation without recourse to public funds.
5. English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English language ability at CEFR level A1 as per the UK Immigration Rules.
The applicant must provide evidence that the sponsor’s gross annual income is at least:
– £29,000, alone or in combination with specified savings of £16,000, and additional savings equal to 2.5 times the difference between the gross annual income and the required amount.
Acceptable Financial Sources:
– Income from specified employment or self-employment, including overseas employment for partners returning to the UK.
– Specified pension income
– Maternity allowance or bereavement benefit
– Other specified income
– Specified savings
If all requirements are met, you will be granted entry clearance for an initial period not exceeding 33 months, with a condition of no recourse to public funds.
Application Refusals:
If your application is refused, you can appeal to the First Tier Tribunal within 28 days of receiving the refusal letter.
How West London Immigration Services Can Assist
At West London Immigration Services, our expert advisors are well-versed in handling applications for entry clearance as a spouse or partner (unmarried/civil) of a British Citizen or settled person in the UK. Our extensive knowledge and experience ensure we identify and address potential issues, maximising your application’s success.
Our Services Include:
– Consultation: Detailed instructions and advice on relevant immigration laws and procedures.
– Application Review: Thorough discussion on the strengths and weaknesses of your application.
– Document Preparation: Guidance on required documentary evidence and supportive discussions.
– Form Completion: Assistance with completing the immigration form and preparation of a sponsorship declaration if necessary.
– Cover Letter Preparation: Crafting a cover letter to introduce and support your application.
– Follow-Up: Liaising with the Entry Clearance Officer for a swift decision on your application if they have questions.
– Outcome Notification: Informing you of the Entry Clearance Officer’s decision and its implications.
Contact our OISC-regulated advisors for fast, friendly, reliable, honest, and professional immigration services. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the spouse visa entry clearance process.
Call us on 0191 3862 327 for more information, a free initial assessment of your requirements, and fee details.
Alternatively, click on the link below and complete an online enquiry.