The UK government implemented some significant changes to spouse visa applications in 2025. Documentation requirements became stricter, and they are scutinizing relationships much more carefully now. The most important shift occurred in April 2024 when the minimum income requirement rose from £18,600 to £29,000. There were plans to increase it further to £38,700, but those plans are on hold for now while Government ministers conduct additional consultations.

The spouse visa financial requirement is £29,000 per year (previously £18,600), effective from April 11, 2024. In US dollars, this equals approximately $37,000 USD. In Canadian dollars, this equals approximately $51,000 CAD.

Your sponsoring partner needs to prove they meet this income threshold through employment, self-employment, savings, or other approved income sources.

• If your sponsor is based in the UK, they’ll provide UK payslips, employment letters, and a P60 (annual tax summary similar to a W-2 or T4).
• If your sponsor is based in the USA, they’ll provide US pay stubs, employment letters, and W-2 forms showing gross annual income of at least $37,000 USD.
• If your sponsor is based in Canada, they’ll provide Canadian pay stubs, employment letters, and T4 slips showing gross annual income of at least $51,000 CAD.

All income must be converted to GBP using official OANDA rates on the date of application.

The £29,000 minimum income requirement refers to gross annual income before tax deductions.

• If your sponsor is in the UK: Their P60 and payslips must show gross income before tax and National Insurance.
• If your sponsor is in the USA: Their W-2 Box 1 (gross wages) must show at least $37,000 USD before federal, state, and FICA taxes.
• If your sponsor is in Canada: Their T4 Box 14 (employment income) must show at least $51,000 CAD before CPP, EI, and income tax deductions.

While there were initial plans to increase the spouse visa income requirement to £38,700 by early 2025 (approximately $49,500 USD or $68,000 CAD) in several phases, the current government suspended this increase after the initial phased increase. The financial requirement remains at £29,000 ($37,000 USD / $51,000 CAD), though the proposed increase to £38,700 is currently under review and pending further ministerial debate.

A UK spouse visa financial requirement calculator helps you determine whether you meet the £29,000 threshold (or $37,000 USD / $51,000 CAD) by factoring in your sponsor’s employment income, self-employment income, savings above £16,000, pension income, or rental income.

The calculation divides any savings over £16,000 by 2.5 to determine the annual income equivalent. For example:

• If your sponsor earns £20,000 ($25,500 USD / $35,000 CAD) annually.
• You need an additional £9,000 in income from savings.
• This requires £38,500 in total savings ((£9,000 × 2.5) + £16,000 = £38,500).

If you’re using cash savings to meet the financial requirement, only amounts exceeding £16,000 (approximately $20,500 USD or $28,000 CAD) count, divided by 2.5.

To meet the complete £29,000 requirement through savings alone, you would need:

• £88,500 GBP (the full requirement).
• $113,000 USD (approximate equivalent for US-based sponsors).
• $155,000 CAD (approximate equivalent for Canadian-based sponsors).

The calculation is: £16,000 + (£29,000 × 2.5) = £88,500

The funds must have been held for at least 6 months before application in UK, US, or Canadian bank accounts. However, there are certain exceptions to the 6-month rule, such as when cash savings are derived from real estate sales.

Yes, you can use your cash savings to meet or supplement the income requirement. You can combine employment income with savings.

Example for US applicants:

• If your UK sponsor earns £20,000 annually ($25,500 USD).
• Shortfall: £9,000 ($11,500 USD).
• Savings needed: £38,500 ($49,000 USD) calculated as ((£29,000 – £20,000) × 2.5 + £16,000).

Example for Canadian applicants:

• If your UK sponsor earns £20,000 annually ($35,000 CAD).
• Shortfall: £9,000 ($16,000 CAD).
• Savings needed: £38,500 ($67,500 CAD).

Bank statements must show that you’ve held the savings for at least 6 months in any currency (will be converted to GBP).

The required financial documents depend on where your sponsor is employed:

If your sponsor works in the UK:

• 6 months of UK payslips (for salaried employment).
• P60 (annual tax summary – equivalent to W-2/T4).
• UK employment letter confirming position and salary.
• 6 months of UK bank statements showing salary deposits.
• If self-employed: SA302 tax calculations and Tax Year Overview from HMRC.

If your sponsor works in the USA:

• 6 months of US pay stubs.
• Most recent W-2 forms (equivalent to UK P60).
• US employment letter confirming position and salary showing at least $37,000 USD gross.
• 6 months of US bank statements showing salary deposits.
• If self-employed: IRS Form 1040 with tax transcripts.

If your sponsor works in Canada:

• 6 months of Canadian pay stubs.
• Most recent T4 slips (equivalent to UK P60).
• Canadian employment letter confirming position and salary showing at least $51,000 CAD gross.
• 6 months of Canadian bank statements showing salary deposits.
• If self-employed: T1 General with CRA Notice of Assessment.

Important: All foreign income must be professionally converted to GBP using OANDA rates on the date of application. The converted amount must be at least £29,000 annually.

The Home Office requires several documents when you apply for a UK Spouse Visa. You will need to provide your valid passports, your marriage certificate, your sponsor’s financial records like paystubs and bank statements, proof of accommodation in the UK such as property deeds and an accommodation report, English language test certificates (unless you’re from the US or Canada), and evidence of your relationship including photographs, joint bank statements, insurance policies and utility bills.

For salaried employment, sponsors must provide at least 6 months of paystubs and bank statements showing salary deposits. If you’re self-employed or in non-salaried work, you’ll need 12 months of financial evidence.

• For US sponsors: 6 months of US pay stubs showing consistent gross income of at least $37,000 USD annually ($3,100 USD monthly).
• For Canadian sponsors: 6 months of Canadian paystubs showing consistent gross income of at least $51,000 CAD annually ($4,250 CAD monthly).

Paystubs must match the sponsor’s employment letter and bank deposits.

For applications made from outside the UK (including the USA and Canada), processing typically takes around 12 weeks from the date of your biometric appointment. Applications from within the UK usually receive decisions within 8 weeks. Priority services are available at an additional fee and can reduce processing times to approximately 6 weeks or even five working days with Super Priority Service.

Processing times officially begin once you attend your biometric appointment and submit all supporting documents. Applicants in the USA or Canada can expect to receive a decision approximately 12 weeks after their biometric appointment.

You’ll need to provide your valid passports, your original marriage certificate (or a certified copy), and proof of your sponsor’s UK status—like their passport or confirmation of Indefinite Leave to Remain. Financial evidence is essential and should cover 6 to 12 months, depending on the type of employment. If you’re not from the US or Canada, you’ll also need an English language certificate (citizens of those countries don’t need one). Make sure you have proof of accommodation, such as a mortgage statement or a tenancy agreement. Finally, include evidence of your relationship, such as photos together, messages or emails, joint bank accounts, shared insurance policies, and documentation covering the whole history of your relationship.

For Canadian applicants: Marriage certificates issued by the Province of Quebec, for example, must include a certified English translation if issued in French.

The UK spouse visa application fee is £1,938. If you’re applying from outside the UK (whether you’re in the USA, Canada, or elsewhere), Americans are looking at roughly $2,500 USD, while Canadians are looking at around $3,400 CAD. Keep in mind, there are other costs on top of this, including:

• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year (approximately $1,300 USD or $1,800 CAD per year) × 2.75 years = £3,105 total ($4,000 USD / $5,400 CAD).
• English language test: $200-$350 USD / $250-$450 CAD (if required – US/Canadian citizens exempt).
• Document translation: $30-$50 USD / $40-$70 CAD per page.
• Priority processing: £500-£1,000 ($650-$1,300 USD / $900-$1,750 CAD).

For US and Canadian applicants, look for immigration advisers registered with the UK Immigration Advice Authority (IAA). Sterling Immigration has an office in Vancouver, British Columbia, and serves clients throughout North America. Look for firms with specialist experience in UK spouse visas, positive client reviews from US/Canadian clients, and transparent fixed-fee structures. We offer initial paid consultations to assess your case.

Lawyer fees vary quite a bit depending on how complex your case is and what level of service you need. Here’s what you can generally expect to pay:
Initial consultations usually run between £100 and £300 (roughly $130-$380 USD or $175-$525 CAD). At Sterling Immigration, we charge £100 for an initial consultation.

If you want help preparing and submitting your application, most firms charge between £1,500 and £3,500, which works out to about $1,900- $4,500 USD or $2,600- $6,100 CAD.

Full representation—where a lawyer handles everything, including any appeals if things don’t go as planned—typically starts at £5,000 and can go higher depending on the situation. That’s around $6,400 USD or $8,800 CAD.
We’re upfront about our pricing at Sterling Immigration. You’ll know what you’re paying from the start, and there won’t be any surprise fees down the road.

There’s no definitive “top 10” list since rankings differ depending on who you ask. What matters more is finding an immigration firm that has a strong track record with spouse visas, is regulated by the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA), and has good reviews from clients—especially if you’re coming from the US or Canada. Sterling Immigration specializes in helping North American applicants with UK spouse visa applications. We offer transparent, upfront pricing, schedule consultations at times that work for North American time zones, and ensure you get responses quickly when you need them.

These terms all mean the same thing. The official name is “Family Visa – Partner route” or “UK Spouse Visa,” and it’s for people who are married to UK citizens or settled persons. You’ll hear it called lots of different things—”Marriage Visa,” “Marital Visa,” “England Marriage Visa,” “England Spouse Visa,” “British Spouse Visa,” “UK Wife Visa,” “British Marital Visa,” “Welsh Spouse Visa,” “Scotland Spouse Visa,” “Northern Ireland Spouse Visa” – they are all just informal names for the same visa. It all falls under Appendix FM in the immigration rules.

Under current rules, if a couple has children or other dependents, the income threshold does NOT increase. The £29,000 requirement ($37,000 USD / $51,000 CAD) remains the same regardless of dependent children included in the application.

However, you must:

• Demonstrate adequate accommodation for the entire family.
• Include children’s documents (birth certificates, passports) in your application.
• Pay additional visa fees for each child: £1,938 per child ($2,500 USD / $3,400 CAD).
• Pay Immigration Health Surcharge for each child: £3,105 per child ($4,000 USD / $5,400 CAD).

For a family of 4 (2 parents + 2 children), total visa costs would be approximately $26,000 USD or $35,500 CAD.

Yes, you can use rental income from property—whether it’s in the UK or overseas—to help meet the £29,000 requirement. You’ll need to provide evidence such as your tenancy agreements, bank statements showing rental payments, mortgage statements (if you have a mortgage on the property), and proof that you actually own it.

• For US applicants with rental properties in the USA: Provide IRS Schedule E (Supplemental Income and Loss) showing net rental income, converted to GBP.
• For Canadian applicants with rental properties in Canada: Provide CRA T776 (Statement of Real Estate Rentals) showing net rental income, converted to GBP.

Rental income calculations can be complex. We recommend consulting with Sterling Immigration for proper documentation.

The initial spouse visa is valid for 2 years and 9 months (33 months) if applying from outside the UK. You can then extend for another 2.5 years (30 months). After 5 years total on a spouse visa, you become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which grants permanent settlement in the UK.

Timeline:

• Initial visa: 33 months.
• Extension: 30 months.
• Total before ILR: 63 months (5.25 years).
• After ILR: Pathway to British citizenship after 12 months.

Not everyone gets called for an interview, but if you do, be prepared to answer questions about how you met and your relationship timeline, what your day-to-day life together looks like, your plans for the future in the UK, where you’ll be living, and how you’re meeting the financial requirements. Typical questions include your spouse’s full name and date of birth, details about your wedding, information about meeting each other’s families, and your plans for living in the UK.

For US/Canadian applicants, be prepared to explain:

• How you met (especially if you met online or internationally).
• Frequency of visits between countries.
• Communication methods during separation.
• Plans for relocating to the UK.
• Knowledge of UK cities, culture, and your partner’s life there.

A UK Visa officer may interview your spouse separately to check for consistency. Prepare thoroughly, answer honestly, and bring organized supporting documents.

Yes. UK spouse visa holders have full, unrestricted work rights in the UK. You can work in any industry, for any employer, in any role, with no restrictions. Whether you work in London’s financial district, Manchester’s tech sector, Edinburgh’s tourism industry, or Birmingham’s manufacturing sector, your spouse visa grants complete employment freedom. You don’t need a separate work permit or sponsorship.

Yes, US citizens and residents can apply for a UK spouse visa from anywhere in the United States. You can complete your UK Partner Visa application online from the US, and you’ll need to choose the US location where you’ll enroll your biometrics. Whether you’re in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Boston, Seattle, Portland, Denver, Detroit, Minneapolis, or any other US city in states including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, New Jersey, Virginia, Washington, Arizona, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Indiana, or Missouri, the application process is the same.

In the US, there are numerous Application Support Centres across the country that you can attend, or premium VFS centres at a smaller number of locations, including New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC.

Canadian citizens can apply for a UK spouse visa from anywhere in Canada. The UK Spouse visa permits Canadian citizens to travel to the UK to seek entry clearance to join their partners for up to 33 months. You can extend your initial UK Spouse visa for a further 30 months. You can apply for indefinite leave to remain once you’ve lived in the UK for five years.

Whether you’re based in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Quebec City, Hamilton, Mississauga, Brampton, Surrey, Burnaby, Laval, Halifax, London (Ontario), Markham, Vaughan, Gatineau, or any other Canadian city across provinces including British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, or Prince Edward Island, you’ll complete the online application and attend biometric appointments at designated visa application centers.

Sterling Immigration’s Vancouver office specializes in helping Canadian applicants navigate this process with in-person or remote consultations.

Yes, Sterling Immigration has an office in Vancouver specifically to serve clients across British Columbia and the rest of Canada. Our Vancouver-based UK immigration lawyers specialize in spouse visa applications and provide remote consultations via Google Meet.

We serve clients throughout:

• Lower Mainland: Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, Delta, Langley, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody.
• Vancouver Island: Victoria, Nanaimo, Parksville, Courtenay, Campbell River.
• Interior BC: Kelowna, Kamloops, Prince George, Vernon, Penticton.
• Throughout BC: Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Whistler, Fort St. John, Terrace.

Our lawyers understand Canadian financial documents (T4s, NOAs, CRA requirements) and provide services in a time zone convenient for West Coast clients.

Sterling Immigration serves clients throughout Canada, including Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. While our primary Canadian office is in Vancouver, we provide full remote consultations and application support to Toronto-based clients via Google Meet, email, and phone.

We serve clients throughout:

• Toronto & the Greater Toronto Area: Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Milton, Whitby, Oshawa, Pickering, Ajax, and Aurora.
• Across Ontario: Ottawa, London, Kitchener, Windsor, Kingston, Guelph, Cambridge, Waterloo, Barrie, St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Thunder Bay, Sudbury, and Peterborough.

Our UK immigration lawyers provide the same quality service regardless of your location in Canada, ensuring you receive expert guidance tailored to Canadian applicants.

No. US citizens and Canadian citizens come from English-speaking majority countries and are automatically exempt from the English language requirement. You don’t need to take an IELTS, PTE, or any other English language test, and you don’t need to provide any proof of English proficiency.

This is a significant advantage for North American applicants and can save you:

• $200-$350 USD / $250-$450 CAD in test fees.
• 2-4 weeks of preparation time.
• The stress of taking a formal English exam.

This exemption applies to all US and Canadian citizens, regardless of where you were born or what your native language is.

The US has Application Support Centers (ASCs) and premium VFS centers in major cities across the country where you can complete your biometrics. Here are some of the locations:

• East Coast: New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Miami, Atlanta, Charlotte, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Newark, and Buffalo.
• West Coast: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, San Jose, Seattle, Portland, Sacramento, and Fresno.
• South: Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, Fort Worth, El Paso, New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville, Jacksonville, Tampa, and Orlando.
• Midwest: Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis, St. Louis, Milwaukee, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, Kansas City, and Cincinnati.
• Mountain/Southwest: Phoenix, Denver, Las Vegas, Albuquerque, Tucson, and Salt Lake City.

Coverage spans all 50 states including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, New Jersey, Virginia, Washington, Arizona, Massachusetts, Tennessee, Indiana, Missouri, Maryland, Wisconsin, Colorado, Minnesota, South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Kentucky, Oregon, Oklahoma, Connecticut, Utah, Iowa, Nevada, Arkansas, Mississippi, Kansas, New Mexico, Nebraska, West Virginia, Idaho, Hawaii, New Hampshire, Maine, Montana, Rhode Island, Delaware, South Dakota, North Dakota, Alaska, Vermont, and Wyoming.

Canadian applicants can attend biometric appointments at VFS Global visa application centers in the following locations:

Major VACs:

• Vancouver, British Columbia (Sterling Immigration’s office is nearby for pre-appointment consultations).
• Toronto, Ontario.
• Montreal, Quebec.
• Calgary, Alberta.
• Ottawa, Ontario.
• Edmonton, Alberta.

Additional ASC locations: Winnipeg (Manitoba), Halifax (Nova Scotia), and seasonal locations.

This provides convenient access for applicants across British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut.

Sterling Immigration tip: Book your biometric appointment as early as possible, especially in Vancouver and Toronto, where wait times can be 1-3 weeks during peak periods.

Standard processing times for US and Canadian applications are 12 weeks (approximately 60 business days) from the date of your biometric appointment. However, actual processing times can vary:

• From the USA: Most applications receive decisions within 8-12 weeks.
• From Canada: Most applications receive decisions within 8-12 weeks.
• Priority Service (additional £500 / $650 USD / $900 CAD): Decisions within 6 weeks.
• Super Priority Service (additional £1,000 / $1,300 USD / $1,750 CAD): Decisions within five working days (available at select premium VFS centers).

Processing times are consistent whether you apply from California, Texas, British Columbia, or Ontario. Track your application through the VFS Global portal using your GWF (Unique Reference Number).

Only your UK sponsor’s income counts toward the £29,000 ($37,000 USD / $51,000 CAD) requirement. Your income as an applicant in the USA or Canada doesn’t count.

However, exceptions exist:

• If you’re already working in the UK legally on a different visa (e.g., Skilled Worker Visa, Graduate visa), your UK income can count.
• If you have a confirmed UK job offer starting within 3 months of your visa start date, that income can count towards the £29,000 ($37,000 USD / $51,000 CAD) requirement.
• If you’ve been living with your UK sponsor outside the UK and you’ve both been earning income together, special rules may apply.

For US/Canadian sponsors earning abroad: If your UK sponsor is temporarily working in the USA or Canada but will return to UK employment, their foreign income can count IF:

• They have a confirmed UK job offer for their return.
• The job starts within 3 months of your visa.
• They meet the £29,000 threshold in their returning UK role.

We recommend consulting with Sterling Immigration to explore whether your situation qualifies for these exceptions.

All foreign income must be converted to GBP using the OANDA exchange rate on the date of your application submission. Here’s how:

Step 1: Calculate your sponsor’s annual gross income in USD or CAD.

• US example: $40,000 USD gross yearly salary.
• Canadian example: $55,000 CAD annual gross salary.

Step 2: Use OANDA.com to find the exchange rate on your application date (approximate current rates: 1 GBP = 1.28 USD or 1.75 CAD).

Step 3: Convert to GBP.

• If you’re earning $40,000 USD: Divide by the exchange rate of 1.28 to get £31,250—which clears the £29,000 threshold.
• If you’re earning $55,000 CAD: Divide by 1.75 to get £31,429, which also meets the requirement.

Step 4: Provide evidence of the conversion.

You’ll need to include a screenshot from OANDA.com (or another recognized currency site) showing the exchange rate on the day you submit your application. Add this to your financial documents.

Important: Exchange rates change daily. If your income is close to £29,000, monitor the rates and submit your application when they’re working in your favor. We can help you determine the best time to apply if you need guidance.

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for the duration of your visa. This fee is paid up front when submitting your application.

Cost per person:

• £1,035 per year of visa validity.
• For a 33-month (2.75-year) spouse visa: £3,105 per person.
• Approximately $4,000 USD per person.
• Approximately $5,400 CAD per person.

Family example:

• Two adults + one child applying together.
• 3 people × £3,105 = £9,315 total ($12,000 USD / $16,300 CAD).

The IHS covers most NHS services, including GP visits, hospital treatment, and emergency care. Prescriptions, dental, and eye care have small additional fees. This is significantly less expensive than private healthcare in the US or Canada.

Absolutely. While our Canadian office is in Vancouver, British Columbia, we serve clients throughout North America via remote consultations in North American time zones.

We have extensive experience with applications from:

All 50 US States: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

All Canadian Provinces & Territories: British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Northwest Territories, Yukon, Nunavut.

Major cities we serve: Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, San Jose, Austin, Jacksonville, Fort Worth, Columbus, Charlotte, San Francisco, Indianapolis, Seattle, Denver, Washington DC, Boston, El Paso, Nashville, Detroit, Oklahoma City, Portland, Las Vegas, Memphis, Louisville, Baltimore, Milwaukee, Albuquerque, Tucson, Fresno, Mesa, Sacramento, Atlanta, Kansas City, Colorado Springs, Miami, Raleigh, Omaha, Long Beach, Virginia Beach, Oakland, Minneapolis, Tulsa, Tampa, Arlington, New Orleans / Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Mississauga, Winnipeg, Quebec City, Hamilton, Brampton, Surrey, Laval, Halifax, London, Markham, Vaughan, Gatineau, Longueuil, Burnaby, Saskatoon, Kitchener, Windsor, Regina, Richmond, Burlington, Oakville, Barrie, Oshawa, Sherbrooke, Saguenay, Lévis, Kelowna, Abbotsford, Coquitlam, Trois-Rivières, Guelph, Cambridge, Whitby, Ajax, Langley, Saanich, Terrebonne, Milton, St. Catharines, Victoria.

Whether you’re in a major metropolitan area, a smaller city, or a town, Sterling Immigration provides the same high-quality service.

Working with a UK immigration lawyer who understands the North American context makes a significant difference. They know both what the UK requires and how to present your US or Canadian documents effectively.

Here’s how we help US and Canadian clients specifically:

• We understand your documents. We’re familiar with converting W-2s and T4s to match UK P60 requirements, and we know exactly how to format your bank statements to meet UK standards.
• We handle the currency conversions. We’ll determine whether your income in USD or CAD meets the threshold and ensure your OANDA conversions are accurate.
• We work in your time zone. Our Vancouver office operates in Pacific Time, which is convenient if you’re on the West Coast. We also offer flexible hours for clients on the East Coast.
• We understand the North American context. We know how employment works in the US and Canada, your tax systems, and what kinds of relationship evidence resonate on this side of the Atlantic.
• We have a strong track record. We’ve helped hundreds of American and Canadian couples successfully move to the UK together.
• Our pricing is straightforward. We charge fixed fees—no hidden costs or surprises down the line.
• Everything’s done remotely. You’ll get full support through Google Meet, email, and phone. You won’t need to travel to the UK for anything.
• Biometric appointment preparation. We guide you through the US/Canadian VAC process and help you prepare properly.

Given the complexity of spouse visa documentation requirements and the high refusal rates for self-submitted applications (up to 30%), professional legal advice significantly increases your success rate.

In general, you’ll have two options if your UK Spouse Visa application is refused:

Immigration Appeal

If your application is refused, you’ll have the right to appeal. UK spouse visa applications are treated as human rights claims, which means you’re entitled to challenge the decision.

Your appeal will be heard by the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). How this works depends on where you are:

• If you’re already in the UK, both you and your spouse can attend the hearing in person and give evidence.
• If you’re overseas, your spouse can still attend the hearing in the UK on your behalf. You can submit a written statement and supporting evidence, and in some cases, you may be able to give evidence remotely via video link.

Keep in mind that immigration appeals can take several months to resolve, and there is no guarantee of success. Because of this, it’s essential to get advice from a UK immigration specializing in appeals before deciding whether to challenge the decision. They can assess whether you have legal merits and help you present the best possible case.

If you’re applying for a UK Spouse Visa, you need to prove that you have suitable accommodation for yourself, your partner, and any dependents. To fulfill this requirement, Sterling Immigration can arrange for a certified surveyor to visit your UK sponsor’s property and prepare a detailed accommodation report, which you can submit along with your application.

What is an accommodation report?

An accommodation report (also called a housing inspection report) is prepared by a qualified Chartered Surveyor or RICS-registered professional who visits the property and assesses:

• Room sizes and layout.
• Whether the property is suitable for the number of occupants.
• Health and safety standards.
• Overall habitability and compliance with UK housing regulations.

Why this matters for US and Canadian applicants:

A professional report provides independent, third-party confirmation that your accommodation meets Home Office standards, which strengthens your application considerably. “Inadequate accommodation evidence” is actually one of the most common reasons spouse visas get refused. Getting a professional report removes that risk entirely.

Suppose your UK sponsor is living with family or friends, in shared accommodation, in a smaller property, or in an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation). In that case, a professional report shows that you’re complying with overcrowding regulations. This is especially helpful when you’re applying from abroad—it gives you confidence that the accommodation side of your application is solid before you submit everything.

Cost: Accommodation reports typically cost £150-£400 ($190-$510 USD / $260-$700 CAD), depending on location and property size.

When is it required vs. recommended?

• Required: If living with family/friends or in shared accommodation.
• Highly recommended: If concerned about meeting space requirements or have dependents.
• Optional but beneficial: For standard privately owned/rented properties with clear documentation.

How Sterling Immigration helps:

Our team can:

• Arrange the surveyor visit on behalf of international clients.
• Coordinate with your UK sponsor to schedule the inspection.
• Review the report before submission to ensure it meets Home Office standards.
• Include it as part of your complete application package.

Alternative documentation (if not using a report):

• Property deed or mortgage statement.
• Tenancy agreement showing property address and rental amount.
• Floor plan or property listing showing room sizes.
• Council Tax bill or utility bills.
• Letter from landlord (if renting) or letter from family/friends (if staying with them).

For US and Canadian applicants unable to physically verify the UK property before applying, we strongly recommend either a professional accommodation report OR comprehensive documentation, including floor plans, photos, and detailed letters from landlords or property owners.

Contact our Vancouver office to discuss whether an accommodation report is necessary for your specific situation.

US and Canadian driver’s licenses are valid for driving in the UK for up to 12 months after you become a UK resident. After that, you’ll need to exchange your license for a UK one or take the UK driving test.

For US citizens:

• You can drive on your valid US state driver’s license for 12 months.
• After 12 months, you must take both the UK theory test and practical driving test to get a UK license.
• There’s no automatic exchange agreement between the US and the UK.
• Cost for UK driving test: approximately £100-£200 ($130-$260 USD), plus lessons if needed.

For Canadian citizens:

• You can drive on your valid Canadian provincial license for 12 months.
• After 12 months, most Canadian provinces have NO exchange agreements with the UK.
• You’ll need to take both theory and practical tests.
• Exception: British Columbia has a partial exchange agreement – BC license holders may only need to take the practical test (not theory).

Our advice: Start the UK license process early. Driving test wait times in the UK can be 2-3 months in busy areas. If you don’t drive frequently, consider whether you need a car in the UK—many cities have excellent public transport.

Yes. You can bring your pet dog or cat from the US or Canada to the UK, but you’ll need to follow strict regulations. The UK has specific pet travel requirements that must be met before your pet can enter the UK.

Requirements for US/Canadian pets:

• Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped (15-digit ISO standard).
• Rabies vaccination: Must be administered after microchipping and at least 21 days before travel.
• Health certificate: Issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian (US) or CFIA-accredited vet (Canada) within 10 days of travel.
• Tapeworm treatment: Required for dogs only, administered 1-5 days before travel.
• Approved route: Must enter the UK via an approved route/carrier.

Cost estimates:

You’re looking at around $200-$400 USD ($250-$500 CAD) for vet visits and vaccinations. The health certificate will run you another $150-$300 USD ($200-$400 CAD). Airlines charge anywhere from $200-$500 USD ($300-$700 CAD) for pets in cargo. If you want to use a pet relocation service to handle everything for you, that’s going to be significantly more—think $2,000-$6,000 USD ($2,500-$8,000 CAD)—but some people find it’s worth it for the peace of mind.

Here’s the good news: the UK doesn’t require a quarantine period for pets coming from the US or Canada, as long as you’ve met all their requirements. That’s a huge relief compared to some other countries.

Just be aware that certain breeds are banned in the UK—Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosas, Dogo Argentinos, and Fila Brasileiros. And here’s something a lot of people don’t think about until they’re apartment hunting: many UK landlords have strict no-pet policies. You’ll want to start researching pet-friendly rentals early, because they can be harder to find than you’d expect.

Sterling Immigration doesn’t handle pet relocations directly, but we can recommend specialist pet travel companies that work with North American clients.

Once you’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (£3,105 / $4,000 USD / $5,400 CAD), you’ll have access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for the whole duration of your spouse visa. Here’s how it compares:

What’s covered by the NHS (at no additional cost):

• GP (family doctor) appointments.
• Hospital treatment and specialist referrals.
• Emergency care (A&E).
• Maternity care.
• Mental health services.
• Most medical tests and scans.

What has small fees:

• Prescriptions: £9.90 per item (approximately $13 USD / $17 CAD) – some people qualify for free prescriptions.
• Dental check-ups: £26.80-£306.80 depending on treatment.
• Eye tests: around £25 (though many opticians offer free tests).

Comparison for US citizens:

The NHS is fundamentally different from US healthcare. There are no deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, network restrictions, or medical bills for covered services. While wait times for non-urgent specialist care can be longer than in the US, emergency and urgent care are immediate. Most US expats find NHS care significantly more affordable, even after accounting for the IHS fee.

Comparison for Canadian citizens:

The NHS is similar to Canadian healthcare but with broader coverage. Unlike in Canada, prescriptions cost a flat £9.90 regardless of the medication, and dental/optical care is available through the NHS (though with fees). Wait times for specialists are comparable to those in Canada.

Private health insurance:

Many expats choose to supplement NHS coverage with private insurance (£50-£150/month or $65-$190 USD / $90-$260 CAD) for faster specialist access, but this is entirely optional.

Once you’re living and working in the UK on a spouse visa, you’ll be considered a UK tax resident. The system works differently from what you’re used to back home, so here’s the breakdown.

UK Income Tax rates for 2024/25:

Everyone gets a Personal Allowance of £12,570 (around $16,000 USD or $22,000 CAD) that’s completely tax-free. After that, you’ll pay 20% on income between £12,571 and £50,270. If you earn more, it jumps to 40% on income from £50,271 to £125,140, and anything over that gets hit with a 45% rate.

If you’re American:

The UK withholds tax automatically through something called PAYE (Pay As You Earn), which is basically the same as payroll withholding in the US. Pretty straightforward.

As a US citizen living in the UK, you remain subject to US tax filing requirements every year. The US has a tax treaty with the UK to prevent double taxation, but you must file annual US tax returns. We recommend consulting with a tax advisor who specializes in US expat taxation to understand your obligations under both tax systems.

In addition to regular income tax, you will pay National Insurance, which are similar to Social Security contributions. It’s 12% on whatever you earn between £12,570 and £50,270. The UK doesn’t have state or local income taxes like you’re used to in the US. No dealing with New York or California on top of the federal government.

On top of your regular tax return, if your foreign bank accounts add up to more than $10,000 USD at any point during the year, you need to file an FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report). You’ll also need to file FATCA (Form 8938) for foreign financial assets. Depending on your situation, you should file Form 2555 for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion or claim the Foreign Tax Credit. Most Americans in the UK hire a tax specialist who knows both systems.

If you’re Canadian:

The UK tax year runs from April 6 to April 5, unlike the calendar financial year in Canada.

One nice thing: there are no provincial taxes in the UK. The system’s actually simpler than what you’re dealing with back home.

Once you become a UK resident, you will need to complete Form NR73 (Determination of Residency Status) with the CRA to receive an official determination of your Canadian tax residency. Depending on your situation, you might also need to file a departure tax return. It’s worth talking to a cross-border tax accountant to make sure you’re handling everything correctly on the Canadian side.

Our advice: We can connect you with tax specialists who specialize in working with American and Canadian expats in the UK. They know all the details of both systems and can ensure you stay compliant without overpaying.

While your spouse visa gives you unrestricted work rights in the UK, certain professions require UK-specific qualifications or registration. Here’s what you need to know:

Professions requiring UK registration/licensing:

Healthcare:

If you’re a doctor, you’ll need to register with the General Medical Council (GMC). They recognize US and Canadian medical degrees, but you’ll probably have to sit the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) test. The whole process usually takes between 6 and 12 months, depending on when you can get test dates.

Nurses have to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). You’re looking at taking a CBT (computer-based test) and an OSCE, which is a practical assessment where they watch you perform nursing tasks. Plan on 6 to 9 months to get through everything.

Dentists need to register with the General Dental Council (GDC). Depending on your qualifications, you might have to take the ORE—that’s the Overseas Registration Examination. Again, budget around 6 to 12 months for the whole registration process.

Legal professionals:

• Lawyers: US/Canadian law degrees don’t automatically transfer. Must complete QLTS (Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme) or SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination) to practice as a UK solicitor. Many US/Canadian lawyers work in international law firms in advisory roles without a full UK qualification.
• Paralegals: Generally transferable without additional qualification.

Teachers:

• US/Canadian teaching credentials are generally recognized.
• May need to complete a brief induction period or demonstrate QTS (Qualified Teacher Status).
• Private schools are more flexible than state schools.

Engineers and IT professionals:

• Generally, no formal licensing is required.
• Professional certifications (PE, P.Eng) are respected but not required.
• The tech industry is very welcoming to North American experience.

Accountants:

• CPAs (US): Can work in finance/accounting roles but may need ACCA or CIMA qualification for certain positions.
• CPAs (Canada): Similar situation – experience is valued, but a UK qualification may be required for statutory roles.

Professions that transfer easily:

• Software developers, IT professionals.
• Marketing and communications.
• Project management.
• Sales and business development.
• Trades (though some may need UK health & safety certifications).
• Hospitality and service industries.
• Academia and research.

Cost of professional qualification transfers:

• Medical licensing: $2,000-$5,000 USD / $2,500-$7,000 CAD.
• Nursing registration: $1,500-$3,000 USD / $2,000-$4,000 CAD.
• Legal qualifications (SQE): $15,000-$25,000 USD / $20,000-$35,000 CAD.
• Teaching QTS: $500-$2,000 USD / $700-$2,800 CAD.

Our advice: Start researching the UK requirements for your profession well before you submit your visa application. In some cases, you can begin the qualification process while you’re still in North America, saving you several months once you arrive. We work with professional bodies and credential assessment services across various fields, so if you need guidance on the specific requirements for your profession, we can help connect you with the right organizations.

Canadian applicants for a UK spouse visa must provide comprehensive financial documentation to satisfy the minimum income requirement. You should include the following documents with your British spouse visa application:

1. Your Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency for the most recent tax year.
2. T4 slips from your employer.
3. Pay stubs covering at least the six months before your application.

Additionally, you need to obtain an employment verification letter from your employer. This letter should confirm your job title, annual salary, and length of employment.

For self-employed Canadian applicants, we will coordinate with your accountant to compile tax returns and business financial statements that demonstrate sustainable income. Certified translations must accompany all documents in French. Our firm ensures your Canadian income documentation is correctly converted to pounds sterling and presented in accordance with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements for England spouse visa applications.

No. If you are already legally married—whether in the United States, Canada, or any other jurisdiction—your marriage is recognized for UK spouse visa purposes, provided it was lawfully valid where it was solemnized. You will submit a certified copy of your marriage certificate with your British marriage visa application.

If you are engaged rather than married, you have two procedural options. First, you may marry in your home country and subsequently apply for a UK spouse visa directly. Second, you may apply for a UK fiancé visa, enter the UK, marry within six months, and then apply to switch to a UK marital visa from within the United Kingdom.

Numerous couples opt for the fiancé visa route to celebrate their wedding with family in the United Kingdom. In contrast, others may find it more straightforward to marry in their home country before applying for the UK spouse visa. Neither approach is inherently superior to the other; the most suitable option depends on individual circumstances, timelines, and familial considerations. Our immigration lawyers can assess which route optimally serves your situation.

Individuals who are self-employed in Canada or the United States may still meet the financial requirements for the UK spouse visa. However, it is essential to note that the evidentiary burden placed on self-employed candidates is more extensive than that imposed on salaried employees. The United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will carefully assess the income generated from self-employment to ensure that it is genuine, sustainable, and meets or exceeds the minimum threshold of £29,000.

Canadian self-employed applicants must provide their Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency demonstrating net self-employment income, along with Form T2125 (Statement of Business or Professional Activities) for sole proprietors. Self-employed applicants in the United States are required to submit Form 1040 along with Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business). Most applicants need to provide documents from their most recent tax year. If your income varies, you may also need to include documents from the previous year. Additionally, bank statements showing business income deposits can also be used to support your application.

It is important to understand a key difference: UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) looks at self-employment income based on net profit, which is your income after expenses, not your total revenue. This way of calculating can be complicated, especially for applicants who have high business expenses. Our immigration lawyers analyze your financial documentation to determine the correct income figure for your British spouse visa application and present your self-employment earnings in the manner most favorable under UK immigration rules. For recently established self-employment, we may employ alternative strategies to demonstrate financial sustainability and meet the England spouse visa requirements.