Introduction
Are you planning to bring your family to the UK? The UK immigration system offers different visa options depending on your relationship with your family members. Two of the most common choices are the Family Visa and the Spouse Visa.
But which one should you apply for?
Choosing the right visa is crucial because each has different eligibility criteria, financial requirements, and processing times. In this blog, we will compare the UK Family Visa and Spouse Visa, helping you determine which is the best fit for your situation.
What is a UK Family Visa?
A Family Visa allows non-UK residents to join their family members who are:
✔ British citizens
✔ Holders of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
✔ People with refugee status or humanitarian protection
A Family Visa can be granted to:
- Spouses or civil partners
- Children under 18
- Parents of a British or settled child
- Adult dependent relatives needing long-term care
Family Visa Key Features:
Visa Duration: Usually 2.5 years (extendable)
Pathway to ILR: Eligible after 5 years
Work Rights: Most Family Visa holders can work and study in the UK
Financial Requirement: Sponsors must meet an income threshold (varies by visa type)
Best For: Parents, children, and dependent relatives who want to join their UK-based family members.
What is a UK Spouse Visa?
A Spouse Visa is a type of Family Visa that allows a husband, wife, civil partner, or long-term unmarried partner to join their British or settled partner in the UK.
Spouse Visa Key Features:
Visa Duration: 2.5 years, renewable for another 2.5 years
Pathway to ILR: Eligible after 5 years of continuous residence
Work Rights: Spouse Visa holders can work and study in the UK
Financial Requirement: Sponsor must earn at least £18,600 per year (higher if children are applying)
English Language Test: Applicants must pass a CEFR Level A1 English test (unless exempt)
Best For: Married or unmarried partners of British citizens or settled persons who wish to live in the UK long-term.
Family Visa vs. Spouse Visa: Key Differences
| Feature | Family Visa | Spouse Visa |
| Who Can Apply? | Parents, children, dependent relatives, and partners of UK residents | Legally married spouses, civil partners, or unmarried partners (2+ years relationship) |
| Sponsor Requirement | Must be a British citizen, ILR holder, or refugee | Must be a British citizen or ILR holder |
| Visa Duration | 2.5 years (renewable) | 2.5 years (renewable) |
| Pathway to ILR | 5 years (if eligible) | 5 years |
| Financial Requirement | Varies depending on visa type | Minimum £18,600 per year (more if children apply) |
| Work Rights | Allowed for most applicants | Allowed |
| English Test Required? | Only for partners applying under the Family Visa route | Yes (CEFR Level A1 or higher) |
| Application Fee (Outside UK) | £1,846 | £1,846 |
Which Visa Should You Apply For?
Apply for a Family Visa if:
You are applying as a parent, child, or dependent relative.
You do not qualify as a spouse or partner.
Your child is under 18 and settled in the UK.
You are financially dependent on your UK sponsor (for adult dependent relatives).
Apply for a Spouse Visa if:
You are married, in a civil partnership, or have lived with your partner for at least 2 years.
Your UK partner meets the minimum income requirement (£18,600).
You want a clear pathway to ILR in 5 years.
You are ready to take an English language test.
Tip: If you qualify for both visas (for example, as a spouse and a parent), the Spouse Visa is usually the better option because it has a clear path to ILR and British citizenship.
How to Apply for a Family Visa or Spouse Visa?
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Valid passport
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, photos, communication records)
Proof of financial status (payslips, tax returns, employment letter)
Accommodation proof (rental agreement, property documents)
English language test certificate (for spouse visa)
Step 2: Submit the Online Application
Applications must be made through the UK Home Office website.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fees
Standard Application Fee: £1,846
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year (adults), £776 per year (children)
Step 4: Attend the Biometric Appointment
Applicants must visit a Visa Application Centre to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Step 5: Wait for the Visa Decision
Processing Times:
- Standard: 8-12 weeks
- Priority (if available): 2-6 weeks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Meeting the Financial Requirement – Ensure your sponsor earns enough or has savings to meet the threshold.
Lack of Proof of Relationship – Provide strong evidence, such as joint bank statements, travel history, and communication logs.
Incorrect Documents – Double-check all paperwork before submitting.
Ignoring English Language Requirements – Book your English test early to avoid delays.
What to Do If Your Visa Is Rejected?
Request an Administrative Review if you believe there was an error.
Reapply with stronger documentation.
Appeal (only available in limited cases, such as Human Rights claims).
Final Thoughts
Both the Family Visa and Spouse Visa offer great opportunities to bring loved ones to the UK, but choosing the right one depends on your relationship, financial status, and long-term plans.
Key Takeaways:
- The Family Visa is best for parents, children, and dependent relatives.
- The Spouse Visa is ideal for married or long-term partners.
- Both visas offer a route to permanent residency (ILR) after 5 years.
- Ensure you meet the financial, language, and accommodation requirements to avoid rejection.
🚀 Need professional guidance? Contact an immigration expert today!
