UK de facto visa and the UK Spouse Visa both focus on uniting loved ones under UK immigration law—yet the latter applies to married or civil partner relationships, while the former suits unmarried, long-term partnerships. At Visa and Migration Ltd, we recognise the emotional weight behind these applications and offer expert, human-centred guidance to help you navigate either pathway.

Understanding the UK Spouse Visa

The UK Spouse Visa permits the spouse or civil partner of a British citizen or settled individual to live, work, and eventually settle in the UK. To qualify, you must prove that your relationship is genuine and continuing. You'll need to meet several requirements: financial stability, language ability, suitable accommodation, and relationship documentation.

Financial Requirements and Policy Context

Since April 2024, applicants must satisfy a minimum income threshold of £29,000 per year, regardless of dependents. Those who cannot meet this via salary can rely on cash savings—typically £88,500 held for six months—or alternative income like pensions, rental income, or dividends. This threshold marks a significant rise from previous levels, stirring criticism about limiting family reunification for working-class applicants. Advocates argue that the requirement imposes undue hardship on families striving to stay together.

Visa and Migration Ltd helps clients present their income or savings in the most compelling way possible, balancing legal precision with empathy.

Essential Documentation and Application Flow

Key materials include:

• Proof of marriage or civil partnership

• Evidence of relationship history—shared accounts, messages, travel logs

• Financial documents—payslips, bank statements, savings history

• Accommodation proofs—rental agreements or property deeds

• English language certification at the A1 level (unless exempt)

Applications from outside the UK usually secure an initial visa lasting 33 months, while domestic applications generally last 30 months. After this period, applicants are eligible to apply for an extension and, ultimately, Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after five years.

Processing Times and Optional Fast-Track Services

Standard processing can take 8 weeks for in-country applications and up to 12 weeks for those submitted from abroad. Some cases—due to missing documents or complexity—can take several months longer.

Priority services significantly reduce waiting time: the Priority Service may yield a decision within 5 working days, while the Super Priority Service can deliver results in just one working day (where available).

Visa and Migration Ltd ensures your application is thorough from the outset, reducing delays and maximizing your chances for swift approval.

Why Visa and Migration Ltd Stands Out

At Visa and Migration Ltd, we believe expertise and empathy must go hand in hand:

• We provide tailored eligibility assessments, ensuring every part of your scenario is accounted for.

• We guide you through crafting a compelling evidence portfolio, ensuring your relationship and financial commitments are authentically presented.

• We help you weigh options between wedding abroad versus transitioning from another visa locally, helping you choose strategically.

• Through each step—from document gathering to submission and post-decision support—we bring clarity, attentiveness, and legal insight.

UK de facto visa and UK Spouse Visa: Building Paths to Permanence

Whether you are choosing the formal security of the UK Spouse Visa or navigating the flexibility of the UK de facto visa, Visa and Migration Ltd delivers careful, compassionate counsel alongside technical precision. Our goal is to guide you in uniting your life with your partner in the UK, thoughtfully and confidently.