New Fees and Costs for the UK Spouse Visa in 2024

Money can’t buy love, but it can prove stability. The financial requirement ensures that couples can support themselves without relying on public funds. Starting from Spring 2024, you’ll need to show an annual income of at least £29,000, with this figure set to rise in the future. Children in the equation? The financial bar rises with each little one. Navigating the financial aspects of applying for a UK spouse visa is a crucial step in your journey to living with your partner in the UK. The costs associated with the visa process can add up, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the fees and costs you can expect in 2024: Click for More UK Visa Updates

Application Fees

• Outside the UK: If you’re applying from outside the UK, the application fee for a spouse visa is £1,846. This is the standard charge for processing your application and does not include additional services or requirements.
• Inside the UK: For those applying from within the UK, either for an extension or to switch to a spouse visa from another category, the fee is £1,048.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

An essential part of your application is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay. As of 6 February 2024, the IHS is set at £1,035 for each year of your visa. Since the spouse visa is typically granted for 2.5 years (30 months), you’ll need to calculate this cost accordingly, which would amount to approximately £2,587.50. This fee is in addition to your application fee and is mandatory for both initial applications and extensions.

Biometric Fee

All applicants are required to provide their biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph). The fee for this service is £19.20, applicable to all applicants.

Super Priority Service

For those in a hurry, the Home Office offers a Super Priority Service, which promises a decision by the end of the next working day. The charge for this expedited processing is £1,000. This service is optional and is in addition to the standard application fee.

Other Potential Costs

• Legal Fees: Many applicants choose to hire an immigration lawyer or adviser to help navigate the complex application process. Legal fees can vary widely based on the service provider and the complexity of your case.
• English Language Test: If you need to prove your knowledge of the English language, you may need to take a test from an approved provider. Costs for these tests vary.
• Document Translation: If your supporting documents are not in English or Welsh, you’ll need to have them officially translated, which incurs additional costs.
• Travel Costs: Depending on your situation, you may need to travel to attend a biometric appointment or an interview, which could add to your overall expenses.

Total Estimated Cost

The total cost of applying for a UK spouse visa in 2024 can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. However, the mandatory fees alone (application fee, IHS, and biometric fee) for an applicant applying from outside the UK would be approximately £4,452.70, not including the Super Priority Service or any additional costs like legal fees or document translation.

It’s essential to budget carefully and ensure you’re prepared for these expenses to avoid any surprises during your application process. Remember, investing in your application correctly is crucial for a smooth journey to joining your partner in the UK.

FAQs – Fees and Costs for the UK Spouse Visa in 2024

1. How much does it cost to apply for a UK spouse visa from outside the UK in 2024?
Applying for a UK spouse visa from outside the UK in 2024 costs £1,846. This fee is for the application processing and does not include additional costs such as the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) or legal fees.

2. What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and how much will it cost in 2024?
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a fee paid by visa applicants to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay. In 2024, the IHS is set at £1,035 per year. For a typical spouse visa duration of 2.5 years, the total IHS cost would be approximately £2,587.50.

3. Are there any additional fees after the application and IHS fees?
Yes, applicants must also pay a biometric fee of £19.20 to provide fingerprints and a photograph. Optional services, such as the Super Priority Service for expedited processing at £1,000, legal advice, document translation, and English language tests, may incur additional costs.

4. Can I pay the UK spouse visa fee in installments?
No, the UK Home Office requires the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge to be paid in full at the time of application submission. These fees cannot be paid in installments.

5. Is the Super Priority Service worth the cost?
The Super Priority Service, costing an additional £1,000, guarantees a decision by the end of the next working day. Whether it’s worth the cost depends on your need for a quick decision. It can be beneficial for those under time constraints but is an optional expense.

6. How can I reduce the costs of applying for a UK spouse visa?
While the application, IHS, and biometric fees are fixed, you can reduce additional costs by preparing your application carefully to avoid errors that could lead to reapplication. Seeking advice only as necessary, doing personal research, and gathering documents efficiently can also help minimize legal and administrative expenses.

7. Are there any exemptions from the IHS fee?
Most applicants are required to pay the IHS. However, certain categories of applicants, such as those applying for a visa based on their humanitarian protection status, may be exempt. It’s essential to check the latest guidance from the UK Home Office for any updates on exemptions.

8. What happens if I cannot afford the visa fees?
Unfortunately, the ability to pay the visa fees is a mandatory part of the application process. If you cannot afford the fees, you may need to delay your application until you can secure the necessary funds. In some cases, exceptions may apply for very specific circumstances, so consulting with an immigration advisor for personalized advice is recommended.

9. Do I get a refund if my UK spouse visa application is refused?
The application fee for a UK spouse visa is non-refundable if your application is refused. However, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) will be refunded if you do not receive the visa.

10. Are there any expected increases in the UK spouse visa fees after 2024?
Visa fees and the IHS are subject to change, often increasing annually. It’s important to check the UK Home Office website or consult with an immigration professional for the most current information before applying.