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UK visa fees are subject to periodic changes, as demonstrated by the recent increase in the minimum financial requirements for Spouse visas in 2024. The UK Spouse visa cost could see further adjustments with a review report expected from the Migration Advisory Committee in mid-2025.
This article explores changes in the UK Spouse visa cost in 2025 and how to save money.
Changes in UK Spouse Visa Costs in 2025
As of early 2025, most UK spouse visa costs have yet to change. However, in April 2024, the UK government increased the minimum income threshold for Family visas to £29,000 annually from £18,600.
The Conservative government, who introduced the increment, planned to increase the rate from £29,000 to £34,000 in late 2024. Upon assuming office, the Labour government halted this planned increment until the Migration Advisory Committee could conduct an adequate review. The review report is expected in June 2025. Until then, the rate remains £29,000.
The increased income requirement for the Spouse visa has made the application process more demanding, as partners must demonstrate higher earnings. This is particularly challenging for those applying outside the UK, as only the UK-based sponsor’s income is considered.
Applicants inside the UK switching to the Spouse visa or extending their visas can combine their earnings with their sponsors to meet the threshold.
Furthermore, the annual Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) increased by 66% in 2024, from £624 to £1035. Spouse visa applicants adding dependent children to their application must now pay a 65% increase of £776, up from the old fee of £470.
Mandatory UK Spouse Visa Costs in 2025
Visa Application Fee
All applicants for the UK Spouse visa must pay the visa application fee unless the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) grants them a waiver. The application fee is £1,846 for applicants applying outside the UK and £1,258 for applicants in the UK.
Partners applying with dependent children must pay the application fee for each child added to the application.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) allows visa holders to access the National Health Service (NHS) free of charge. Spouse visa applicants must pay the IHS even if they have private medical insurance unless exempt, such as spouses of members of the UK’s armed forces or asylum seekers.
The IHS costs £1,035 for each applicant per year. First-time Spouse visa applicants will typically receive a visa validity of 2 years and 9 months and must pay £3,105 at the time of application. Their dependents under 18 will pay £776 per year, translating to £2,328 for 2 years and 9 months.
Biometrics
When applying for a UK spouse visa, you must submit and pay for your biometrics at an approved Visa Application Centre (VAC). The biometrics enrolment fee is £19.50.
English Language Proficiency Test
Proving English Language proficiency is a compulsory part of the UK Spouse visa application unless you’re an exempt applicant. The costs of the tests range from £150 to £22, depending on your location.
Medical Exam
The Home Office may require you to submit a medical report to ensure you are free from active tuberculosis (TB). The medical exam fee can cost up to £100 depending on the country you’re applying from.
Optional Costs for UK Spouse Visa in 2025
Some UK Spouse visa costs aren’t mandatory but can be integral to your application depending on your circumstances. Here are some fees associated with a Spouse visa application in 2025:
Document Translation
You must provide a certified translation of all your documents that aren’t originally in English. Document translators may charge per word or page rate. The exact costs differ depending on your location.
Legal fees
The UK Spouse visa application process can be overwhelming for first-time applicants or anyone without an exhaustive understanding of the process. Therefore, you should consider hiring an immigration lawyer to improve your chances of success.
The cost of hiring a UK immigration lawyer for your Spouse visa application varies depending on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s expertise.
Priority Services or Expedited Processing Services
The UKVI offers expedited services. You can apply for the priority service, which reduces the decision-making process to five working days, or the super-priority service, which will get you a decision in one or two working days. The priority and the super-priority services cost £500 and £1,000 respectively.
Document Scanning and Courier Services
Visa application centres may charge you a fee to scan and upload your documents. Also, the use of courier services may incur additional costs.
Tips for Managing the Cost of a UK Spouse Visa in 2025
Here are some tips to save money during Spouse visa applications in 2025.
Budget for Expenses
It is imperative to research all the costs associated with your visa application upfront and budget for them. Research non-fixed costs, such as legal or document scanning fees, to help determine the total amount you’ll need. Proper budgeting will help you make better financial decisions and prevent overspending.
Check for Income Threshold Exemptions
The UKVI may have exemptions for certain Spouse visa costs. You may be exempt from satisfying the minimum income requirement if you’re on a carer’s allowance or disability-related benefits. However, note that you may still need to prove that you have alternative proof of adequate maintenance.
The Home Office can also exempt you if you can’t satisfy the minimum financial requirement, yet rejecting your visa will result in unjustifiably harsh consequences for your family.
Get an Application Fee Waiver
The Home Office may grant you an application fee waiver if you’re in a dire financial situation. Examples of such cases include not having stable accommodation, being unable to afford essential living costs, and having a very low income. However, it only applies to certain in-country applicants who want to extend their Spouse visa. You can apply for the fee waiver online if you’re eligible.
Hire an Immigration Attorney
Hiring an immigration attorney might be expensive momentarily, but it may be a wise investment in the long run. If the Home Office rejects your Spouse’s visa application, you must pay a new application fee when you reapply. You may also incur some application-associated costs.
However, hiring a legal expert increases your chances of getting approved with your first application, potentially saving money and time. An immigration lawyer would also offer you informed financial advice during your application, which helps your decision-making.
Conclusion
As of January 2025, the Home Office hasn’t made any changes to the UK Spouse visa fees. However, any changes implemented will only apply to applications submitted on or after the effective date.
Additionally, the costs associated with a UK Spouse visa application remain substantial. Researching and fully understanding the requirements is crucial to avoid unnecessary expenses. Take advantage of any available waivers or exemptions to reduce the financial burden. Furthermore, consider hiring a UK immigration lawyer who will guide you through the application process and advise you on saving money.
Reviewed and edited by Albert Fang.
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Article Title: Changes in the UK Spouse Visa Cost 2025: What Has Changed, and How Might Families Save Some Money?
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