Frequently Asked Questions
As of: Feburary 2026
How much does a UK spouse visa application cost?
The Home Office application fee for a spouse visa applied for from outside the UK is £1,846. Applicants are also required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is currently £1,035 per year. Fees are subject to change by the UK government, and exact figures are provided at the time of application.
What is the current financial requirement for a visa?
Under the updated UK Immigration Rules, the minimum income requirement for most family visa applications is £29,000. This can be met through salaried employment, self-employment, dividends, certain benefits, or cash savings. Assessing these rules is a core part of the initial consultation.
How long does the visa application process take?
Standard processing times for applications made outside the UK are approximately 24 weeks. Applications within the UK are typically processed in around 8 weeks. However, priority or super-priority services may be available for an additional fee to secure a decision more quickly.
What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Indefinite Leave to Remain is a status that allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UK without any time limits or immigration restrictions. It is a form of permanent residency. Most individuals on a 5-year partner visa route can apply for settlement once the qualifying period of residence is completed.
Is there an English language requirement for a spouse visa?
Yes. Most applicants for a UK spouse visa are required to demonstrate English language ability at CEFR level A1 for the initial application, A2 for the first extension, and B1 when applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain. This is usually evidenced by passing an approved English language test or by holding a qualifying degree taught in English, although some nationalities and categories are exempt. Rule applicability is confirmed during the initial consultation.
What documents will I need for my application?
The documents required depend on the specific application, but typically include proof of identity, proof of relationship, financial evidence, English language test certificate or degree certificate, and proof of suitable accommodation. A personalized document checklist is provided after the initial consultation to clarify exactly what is required.
How do I apply for British citizenship?
To apply for British citizenship by naturalisation, applicants are usually required to hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status, and meet the continuous residence and Good Character requirements. In most cases, the rules require holding ILR for at least 12 months and residing in the UK for 5 years. Those married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen may be eligible to apply as soon as settlement is obtained, provided the 3‑year residence rules are met. Eligibility is assessed and the application prepared in full.
What is the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa?
The HPI visa is an unsponsored UK work visa for people who have recently graduated from one of the world's top universities, as listed on the UK government's Global Universities List. It allows you to live and work in the UK for two years (or three years with a doctoral qualification) without needing a job offer or employer sponsor. The route is capped at 8,000 places per year.
Which universities qualify for the HPI visa?
The qualifying universities are set out in the Global Universities List, which the UK government publishes annually. UK universities are not included because their graduates have access to the separate Graduate visa route. If you are unsure whether your university qualifies, we can confirm this during the initial consultation.
How much does an HPI visa application cost?
The total cost includes the Home Office application fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and our professional service fee. Government fees are set by the Home Office and are subject to change. We provide a fixed-fee quote for our services before you commit, so you know the full cost upfront. Current government fee amounts are confirmed during the consultation.
Can I bring my partner and children on the HPI visa?
Yes. Your partner and dependent children can apply to accompany you or join you in the UK while you hold HPI permission. Each dependant must meet the relevant relationship and financial requirements. There is an additional financial requirement of £285 for a partner, £315 for the first child, and £200 for each additional child, held for at least 28 days.
Does the HPI visa lead to settlement or British citizenship?
No. The HPI visa is not a route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship. It is a time-limited visa (two or three years depending on your qualification). However, while in the UK, you may be able to switch to another visa category that does lead to settlement, such as the Skilled Worker visa. We can advise you on switching options during the consultation.
What is the annual cap on HPI visa places?
The HPI route is limited to 8,000 applications per year. The allocation year runs from 1 November to 31 October. Once all places are allocated, no further applications are accepted until the new allocation year begins. If you are considering applying, it is worth starting the process early in the cycle.
Does this FAQ page count as legal advice?
No. The information in this FAQ reflects UK immigration rules and guidance as at February 2026 and may change. It is intended as general guidance only and does not constitute individual legal advice. For tailored guidance regarding specific circumstances, we recommend booking a consultation with a qualified immigration advisor.