Top 10 UK Spouse Visa Refusal Reasons

Top 10 UK Spouse Visa Refusal Reasons

Introduction

Applying for a UK spouse visa is one of the most personal and emotional steps a couple can take. It represents love, family, and the hope of starting a life together. Unfortunately, too many applications are refused each year often for reasons that could have been easily avoided.

As experienced UK immigration solicitors with over two decades of practice, we have helped hundreds of couples turn refusals into approvals. In this guide, we explain the top 10 most common reasons spouse visa applications are refused and show you how to avoid them, based on the latest Home Office guidance and 2025 rule updates.

1. Failing to Meet the Financial Requirement (Updated 2025)

Since 11 April 2024, the Home Office raised the minimum income requirement for new spouse or partner visa applications from £18,600 to £29,000.

This single change has become the biggest source of new refusals. Many applicants fail to meet the new threshold or miscalculate eligible income and savings.

How to avoid it:

• Only use permitted income sources such as employment, self-employment, pensions, or savings.

• If using savings, ensure they are held for at least six months in an accessible account.

• Double-check every calculation even a small mistake can result in refusal.

• If your circumstances are complex, obtain a professional review before submission.

2. Insufficient Evidence of a Genuine and Subsisting Relationship

The Home Office must be convinced your marriage or partnership is genuine. Applications are refused when evidence of your relationship is weak or inconsistent.

Avoid this by:

• Providing clear proof of communication (messages, calls, social media interactions).

• Submitting photos, travel receipts, and joint financial records.

• Writing a relationship timeline that covers how you met, visits, and future plans.

• Ensuring consistency across all your documents and forms.

3. Using Outdated or Incorrect Application Forms

UK visa forms and requirements change frequently. Submitting an outdated form or missing a new annex can lead to automatic rejection.

Tip: Always download the latest version of the form from gov.uk right before you apply, and check whether supplementary sections are required.

4. Missing or Poorly Prepared Supporting Documents

Even when eligibility is met, missing or unreadable documents can lead to refusal. Common problems include incomplete financial evidence, missing translations, and poor-quality scans.

How to avoid it:

• Prepare a detailed checklist based on the latest Home Office guidance.

• Ensure all translations are certified and professionally done.

• Submit high-quality, legible scans.

• Cross-check names, dates, and addresses across all documents.

5. Failure to Meet the Suitability Rules (Part 9 Grounds for Refusal)

Applications can be refused if the applicant falls foul of the general grounds for refusal under Part 9 of the Immigration Rules such as previous immigration breaches, false representations, or undeclared criminal convictions.

To avoid this:

• Always disclose past refusals, overstays, or convictions honestly.

• Never submit documents that are misleading or altered.

• Provide explanations for any adverse history, supported by evidence.

6. Not Meeting the English Language Requirement

Applicants must meet the English language requirement unless exempt. Refusals occur when test certificates are from non-approved providers or are expired.

Ensure you:

• Take the test with a Home Office approved SELT provider.

• Meet the required level (A1 for entry, A2 for extension).

• Include proof of exemption if applicable (degree taught in English, nationality, etc.).

7. Inadequate Accommodation Evidence

You must show that you and your partner will live in adequate accommodation without overcrowding or reliance on public funds.

Provide clear evidence such as:

• Tenancy agreements or mortgage statements.

• Utility bills and council tax records.

• A letter of permission and proof of ownership if staying with family.

8. Inconsistent or Contradictory Information

Small inconsistencies across forms or documents can raise doubts about credibility.

Avoid this by:

• Keeping a master list of names, dates, and addresses.

• Reviewing all documents carefully for accuracy.

• Explaining genuine discrepancies in your cover letter.

9. Submitting Without a Professional Review

DIY applications often fail because applicants miss legal nuances or formatting standards expected by caseworkers.

Having a solicitor review your application ensures:

• Your documents are compliant with the Immigration Rules.

• Presentation is professional, indexed, and logically structured.

• Potential refusal triggers are identified and addressed before submission.

10. Missing Deadlines or Using the Wrong Submission Channel

Even a strong application can fail for procedural reasons such as late submission, using the wrong portal, or ignoring correspondence.

Tip: Always confirm submission methods and cut-off dates, and act promptly on any Home Office communication.

Your Spouse Visa Journey Deserves Expert Support

Every year, thousands of genuine couples face unnecessary refusals not because they are ineligible, but because the application process is complex and unforgiving. A single oversight can delay your reunion for months or even years.

At UK Immigration Help, we specialise in UK spouse and partner visa applications and have achieved a 98% success rate by guiding clients through every step from eligibility checks to document preparation and representation.

Whether you are applying for the first time, reapplying after a refusal, or simply want peace of mind that your application is flawless, our experienced team is here to help.

📩 Email: admin@ukimmigrationhelp.co.uk
📞 Telephone: 020 7112 4955
💬 WhatsApp: +44 7916 643571
🌐 Website: https://www.ukimmigrationhelp.co.uk/

➡️ Book your consultation today and let us help you secure your spouse visa the right way, the first time.