If you entered the UK on a Fiancé(e) Visa, you may switch to a UK Spouse Visa after getting married or entering a civil partnership with your British or settled partner. This route enables you to remain in the UK and begin your five-year pathway toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
When You Can Apply
You must apply to switch before your Fiancé(e) Visa expires. Typically, a Fiancé(e) Visa is valid for 6 months and does not permit employment. Once married or in a civil partnership, you can immediately apply for a Spouse Visa from within the UK — without leaving the country.
To remain lawfully in the UK, you must submit your application before your current visa expires, even if you are still awaiting your marriage certificate.
Eligibility Requirements
To switch from a Fiancé(e) Visa to a Spouse Visa in 2026, you must meet the requirements of Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules, including:
- You are legally married or in a recognised civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status.
- Your relationship is genuine and subsisting.
- You intend to live together permanently in the UK.
- You meet the financial requirement (minimum income threshold of £18,600, or higher if dependants apply).
- You satisfy the English language requirement (A1 or higher level for initial Spouse Visa applications).
- You can demonstrate suitable accommodation in the UK — see Accommodation Requirement (2026).
Documents Required
Ensure that your application includes all required documentation under Appendix FM-SE to prevent delays or refusals. Typical evidence includes:
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
- Passports for both partners.
- Proof of cohabitation or correspondence at the same address.
- Evidence of income or savings (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
- Proof of accommodation.
- English language certificate (A1 or higher).
Refer to our Documents Checklist (2026) for full Home Office-compliant guidance.
Application Process
Applications to switch from a Fiancé(e) Visa to a Spouse Visa are made online through the GOV.UK Family Visa Portal. You will:
- Complete the FLR(M) form online.
- Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Book and attend your biometric appointment at a UKVCAS centre.
- Upload documents using the digital upload service or scan at your appointment.
Fees and Processing Times
As of November 2025:
- Application fee: £1,846 (in-country applications).
- IHS (Immigration Health Surcharge): £1,035 per year of visa validity.
- Processing time: 8–12 weeks on standard service, or faster with Priority or Super Priority services.
After Switching to a Spouse Visa
Once granted, your Spouse Visa is valid for 30 months. During this period, you may live, work, and study in the UK without restriction. After completing five years of continuous residence under the Spouse Route, you may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
If Refused
If your application to switch is refused, you may be eligible to:
- Request an Administrative Review or appeal if the refusal decision is challengeable.
- Reapply with stronger supporting evidence or updated documentation.
- Seek legal advice from a regulated immigration solicitor such as Michael Gibbons.
Related Guidance
- Extending a UK Spouse Visa (2026)
- Proof of Relationship (2026)
- ILR (5-Year Spouse Route 2026)
- Add Children / Dependants (2026)
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: 8 January 2026.