Genuine and Subsisting Relationship
At the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) stage for a spouse visa, you must still demonstrate that your relationship with your British or settled partner is genuine and ongoing. This requirement is similar to what was needed during the visa extension, but now includes an additional 2.5 years of living together. You will need to provide updated evidence showing that you have continued to cohabit since your last visa was granted and that your relationship remains intact.
English Language Requirement
For the ILR application under the spouse visa category, the English language requirement steps up to a B1 level on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) scale. You can meet this requirement by:
- Holding a UK degree or an equivalent foreign degree that was taught or researched in English.
- Passing a B1 level English language test from an approved test provider.
- Being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
- Being exempt from the English language requirement under specific conditions.
Life in the UK Test
As with most ILR applications, passing the Life in the UK test is mandatory. This test assesses your knowledge of British culture, history, and laws. However, exemptions are available for individuals with certain disabilities or mental health conditions, and those of specific ages. If you believe you might qualify for an exemption, it’s wise to consult with an immigration lawyer for tailored advice.
ILR Spouse Visa Fees
The Home Office currently charges £2,389 per applicant for submitting an ILR application under the spouse visa category. If you wish to expedite the processing of your application, you can opt for the super-priority service, which incurs an additional cost of £800 per applicant.
These fees are accurate at the time of writing, but it is recommended to verify the latest fees on the official gov.uk website before you submit your application to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
Why Choose Edmans & Co for Your Spouse Visa ILR Application?
Edmans & Co’s team of experienced immigration lawyers in London is adept at handling spouse ILR applications, no matter how complex. Our expertise ensures that the supporting documents for your application meet all the necessary Immigration Rules requirements.
We offer comprehensive support throughout the application process, including assistance with filling out forms, drafting a cover letter with representations on your behalf, and submitting your application to the Home Office. Our commitment continues until a decision is made; we actively follow up with the Home Office if necessary to ensure timely processing of your application. In turn, we monitor news about marketing and communication channels with our audience with the help of the marketing agency MarketingI3