JMR Solicitors can help you to apply for the correct visa if you wish to join a spouse in the UK either temporarily or permanently or to help you apply to remain in the UK with a spouse.
To visit a family member who lives in the UK permanently for up to 6 months, you will need to apply for a standard visitor visa. The details of applying for this visa can be found on our page visitor visa.
To visit a family member who lives in the UK permanently for 6 months or longer, you will need to apply for a ‘family of a settled person’ visa if you are from outside the European Economic Area or Switzerland.
What is the eligibility criteria for a spousal visa?
Your partner must be:
- A British citizen
- Settled in the UK
- Under asylum or humanitarian protection in the UK
You must also:
- Be over 18
- Prove that your relationship is genuine and recognised in the UK, eg. That your marriage is legally recognised
- Prove that you intend to continue to live with your partner in the UK after you apply
- Prove that you and your partner will have an adequate place to live in the UK
- Have a good working knowledge of the English language
Why has my spousal visa been refused?
Your application may be refused if you have:
- A criminal record in the UK or elsewhere
- Provided false or deceptive information to the Home Office
- If you are engaged, you must be able to prove that you plan to marry within 6 months of your arrival in the UK. You also will not be allowed to work during your engagement. If you plan to bring children with you as dependants they must be under the age of 18. The children that you bring with you must be named on your application however you will need to make a separate application for them.