11 May

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a UK Spouse Visa

Applying for a UK Spouse Visa is one of the most important steps toward living with your partner in the United Kingdom. Unfortunately, thousands of applicants are refused every year due to simple and avoidable errors. The Home Office has strict requirements, and even a small oversight can lead to delays, appeals, or outright rejection.

At Stretton Solicitors, our immigration specialists have helped hundreds of couples navigate the Spouse Visa process successfully. Below, we break down the top 5 most common mistakes — and show you how to avoid them.

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Missing or incorrect paperwork is the #1 reason for UK Spouse Visa refusals. All documents must be complete, dated correctly, and aligned with Home Office guidelines.

Common mistakes include:

Missing payslips or bank statements
Outdated or expired documents
Poorly translated materials

Expert Tip: Always use a document checklist based on current UKVI guidance. Stretton Solicitors will review and compile your application to ensure it’s complete and compliant.

2. Failing to Meet the Financial Requirement

The financial requirement is a common hurdle. To sponsor a partner, you must typically earn at least £18,600 per year (more if children are included). The Home Office demands strict evidence — and inconsistencies can lead to rejection.

Avoidable issues:

Using income not recognised by UKVI
Submitting incomplete employment evidence
Ignoring self-employment rules

Expert Tip: Get legal help if you’re unsure how to calculate or document your income. We’ll help you meet the financial threshold — or explore exceptions if needed.

3. Insufficient Proof of a Genuine Relationship

Simply being married is not enough. The UK Home Office looks for ongoing, genuine relationships — especially in cases of long-distance or recent marriages.

Essential relationship evidence includes:

Joint financial accounts or utility bills
Travel history and shared addresses
Communication logs (texts, emails, call records)
Photos and social media history

Expert Tip: Stretton Solicitors will help you build a compelling relationship timeline with strong supporting evidence.

4. English Language Requirement Issues

All applicants must meet the English language requirement by passing an approved test or proving an accepted exemption.

Common problems include:

Taking the wrong type of test
Using unapproved test providers
Submitting expired test certificates

Expert Tip: Use only UKVI-approved SELT test centres or let us help you verify degree qualifications through ECCTIS (formerly UK NARIC).

5. Applying Under the Wrong Category or From the Wrong Country

Many applicants make the mistake of applying from inside the UK when they’re not eligible to switch visas, or they apply under the wrong category altogether (e.g., using a visitor visa).

Watch out for:

In-country switch restrictions
Misunderstanding eligibility criteria
Attempting to bypass spouse visa rules

Expert Tip: Our solicitors will confirm whether you’re eligible to apply from inside or outside the UK and ensure you choose the correct visa category.

When Should You Get Legal Help?

If your application is complex — involving prior refusals, non-standard income, children, or previous immigration breaches — you should speak to an immigration solicitor as early as possible. Legal guidance can prevent errors and give your application the best chance of success.

At Stretton Solicitors, we offer:

Application reviews
Full-service document preparation
Appeals and refusals support
Strategic advice for complex cases

Quick Recap: 5 Spouse Visa Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Missing or incorrect documents
❌ Failing to meet the financial requirement
❌ Weak relationship evidence
❌ Not fulfilling the English requirement
❌ Applying from the wrong location or visa category

Need Help With Your Spouse Visa? Contact Stretton Solicitors Today

Spouse Visa applications don’t have to be overwhelming. With the right legal advice, you can avoid delays, reduce stress, and increase your chances of approval.

👉 Book a consultation with Stretton Solicitors today — and take the next step toward building your life in the UK with confidence.

📞 Call us or use our online enquiry form to get started.