10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Spouse Visa
- Details
- Written by: Wembley Solicitors
Applying for a UK Spouse visa can be challenging, and even minor mistakes can result in delays or refusal.
Learn the 10 most common mistakes applicants make when applying for a UK Spouse visa and how to avoid them for a smooth and successful application.
Here are 10 common mistakes to avoid:
- Failing to Prove a Genuine Relationship
- Not Meeting the Financial Requirement
- Incorrectly Completing the Application Form
- Submitting Incorrect or Missing Documents
- Failing to Meet the English Language Requirement
- Inadequate Accommodation
- Not Disclosing Past Criminal Convictions
- Overlooking the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Ignoring Requests for Additional Information from the Home Office
- Not Seeking Professional Advice
- Final Thoughts
1. Failing to Prove a Genuine Relationship
One of the primary reasons for Spouse visa rejection is if the Home Office has doubts about the legitimacy of your relationship.
To avoid this, you need to provide sufficient clear evidence demonstrating that your relationship is genuine and ongoing.
You can submit documents such as your marriage certificate, joint bank statements, and photographs of you together to support your claims.
2. Not Meeting the Financial Requirement
If you and your partner do not meet the financial requirements, your UK spouse visa application could be rejected.
When applying for a UK Spouse, you and your partner must show a combined gross income of £29,000 per year or more. You can also use savings to meet the financial requirements.
Make sure all your financial documents, including payslips and bank statements, are up to date.
3. Incorrectly Completing the Application Form
One of the most common reasons for UK spouse visa refusals is missing, incorrect, or inconsistent information, or mistakes made in completing the application form.
To avoid this issue, it's important to double-check all information on the application form and ensure consistency with your supporting documents.
Hiring an immigration solicitor can help minimise errors on your application and significantly improve your chances of a successful UK spouse visa approval.
4. Submitting Incorrect or Missing Documents
When applying for a UK Spouse visa, you are required to submit a range of supporting documents, such as your passport, marriage certificate, proof of income, and others. Missing or incorrectly formatted documents can result in delays or refusal.
If you're unsure about any documents or need help with a UK Spouse visa application, call Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 or fill in the enquiry form.
5. Failing to Meet the English Language Requirement
Unless you are exempt, you need to prove your English language proficiency when applying for a UK Spouse Visa. If you don't meet this requirement, your application may be refused.
A minimum of A1 level on the CEFR scale is required for your first Spouse visa application. You also have the choice to take a higher-level language test.
6. Inadequate Accommodation
One of the reasons for UK spouse visa refusal is inadequate accommodation for the applicant and any dependents.
You must have a permanent home with enough space, as per UK guidelines. The property must not be overcrowded, and it must be legally owned or rented by you or your partner.
To avoid this issue, you should provide clear, valid evidence of adequate housing when applying for your visa.
7. Not Disclosing Past Criminal Convictions
The Home Office requires all applicants to provide honest and complete information about their criminal history.
Failing to disclose any past convictions, even for small crimes, can lead to the refusal of your Spouse visa application.
If unsure, contact Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 for expert legal advice.
8. Overlooking the Immigration Health Surcharge
All spouse visa applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. This fee lets you use the UK's NHS. Not paying the right amount can delay or reject your application.
9. Ignoring Requests for Additional Information from the Home Office
When the Home Office requests additional documents or explanations, timely responses are necessary. Failing to do so can cause unnecessary delays or result in your application being refused.
10. Not Seeking Professional Advice
With frequent changes in immigration laws, not seeking professional advice can lead to a UK spouse visa refusal. Getting advice from an expert immigration solicitor can help you avoid mistakes.
Final Thoughts
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful Spouse visa application.
If you're uncertain about any stage of the Spouse visa application or have questions regarding documents or eligibility, consulting with an expert immigration solicitor is highly recommended.
Need legal assistance with your Spouse visa application? Contact our expert spouse visa solicitors in London at 0203 417 3700 or fill in our enquiry form.
There are several ways to contact Wembley Solicitors:
- Phone - Call us on 0203 417 3700
- Email us - info@wembleysolicitors.com
- Online - Fill in our online enquiry form
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- Visit our office - 561 High Rd, Wembley London HA0 2DW
Our team of immigration solicitors is based in Wembley, London about a 4-minute walk from the Wembley Central underground station which gives easy access to clients.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Wembley Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.
