UK Spouse Visa 2025: Complete Document Checklist for Approval

[The SmartMove2UK]

When preparing your UK Spouse Visa application, gathering the correct documents is vital. The documentation serves as proof of your eligibility and the genuineness of your relationship.

Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

1. Proof of Relationship

Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate

Essential for proving your legal relationship. This document should be issued by a recognized authority and must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Photos and Videos

Visual evidence of your relationship, particularly from significant events. This can include photos from your wedding, holidays, and family gatherings. It’s important to explain the context of each photo, including who is in the picture and where it was taken.

Communication Records

Demonstrates ongoing contact, especially if living apart. This can include emails, text messages, phone call logs, and social media interactions. These records should cover the entire period of your relationship and show regular communication.

Travel History 

Shows visits to each other, underscoring the commitment. This can include flight tickets, hotel bookings, and passport stamps. If you have traveled together, include evidence of these trips as well.

Watch our video on Gathering Documents for UK Spouse Visa by The SmartMove2UK

2. Financial Documents (continued)

Bank Statements

To corroborate the financial stability and income levels. The bank statements should show regular deposits of your partner’s salary, as well as any other income or savings. If you are using savings to meet the financial requirement, provide statements for the last six months showing the balance.

Savings Account Statements

If relying on savings to meet the financial requirement. The statements should show the total amount of savings, as well as any withdrawals or deposits. If the savings are in a joint account, provide evidence that both partners have access to the funds.

Tax Returns

Especially important for self-employed applicants. The tax returns should show your partner’s income over the past financial year, as well as any deductions or expenses. If your partner is self-employed, provide additional evidence such as business accounts, invoices, and contracts.

Watch our video on Preparing Financial Documents for UK Spouse Visa by The SmartMove2UK

UK immigration Rules are subject to change.
If you would require advice specific to your UK Spouse Visa circumstances, call our UK Immigration experts on [phone] or email us at [e-mail]

3. Accommodation Evidence

Property Ownership Documents

If you own a home in the UK. The documents should show that you or your partner have the right to live in the property, such as a deed or mortgage statement. If the property is mortgaged, provide evidence of the mortgage payments.

Rental Agreement

If you are renting, showing the terms of your lease. The rental agreement should include details of the property, the rent amount, and the duration of the lease. If you are living with a family member, provide a letter from them confirming that you can live there rent-free.

Property Inspection Report

Ensures that the accommodation meets UK standards. The report should show that the property is safe, suitable, and not overcrowded. It should be conducted by a qualified inspector and include details of the number of rooms, the condition of the property, and any necessary repairs.

Utility Bills

Demonstrates that the accommodation is occupied and in use. The bills should be in your or your partner’s name and cover the period of your residency in the property. Provide bills for utilities such as electricity, gas, and water.

4. Additional Supporting Documents

Passports

Both yours and your partner’s valid passports. The passports should show your identity, nationality, and travel history. If your passport is expiring soon, consider renewing it before applying for the visa.

Previous Marriage Divorce Certificates

If applicable, to show the legal end of any prior marriages. The certificates should be issued by a recognized authority and must be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Criminal Record Certificate

May be required depending on your country of residence. The certificate should show that you have no criminal convictions that would prevent you from entering the UK. If you have lived in multiple countries, you may need to provide certificates from each country.

Gathering all the required documents can be a time-consuming process, but it is essential for the success of your visa application. Ensure that all documents are accurate, up-to-date, and in the correct format. If any documents are not in English, provide a certified translation.