UK Spouse / Partner Visa from Kenya

What is the Spouse/Partner Visa?

The UK Spouse/Partner Visa (also called Family Visa) allows you to join your husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner in the UK. Your partner must be either:

• A British citizen
• A person with settled status (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
• A person with refugee status or humanitarian protection

This visa leads to permanent residence (ILR) after 5 years.

Note: This is different from the Family & Friends Visitor Visa, which is for short visits only.

Key Requirements

This is one of the most complex UK visas. You must prove:

1. Genuine and subsisting relationship
2. Financial requirement (minimum income)
3. English language ability
4. Suitable accommodation in the UK

The Financial Requirement

This is the most challenging part for many Kenyan applicants. The minimum income requirement is £29,000 per year (increasing to £38,700 in the future).

How to Meet the Requirement

The income must come from your UK sponsor (your spouse/partner). Options include:

• Employment income: £29,000+ annual salary from a UK job
• Self-employment: Based on tax returns and accounts
• Cash savings: £62,500 above any income shortfall (complex calculation)
• Combination: Income + savings

Evidence Required

• 6 months of payslips
• 6 months of bank statements showing salary deposits
• Employment letter confirming salary, role, and length of employment
• P60 or tax returns

Proving a Genuine Relationship

The Home Office wants to see that your relationship is real, not arranged for immigration purposes. Evidence should cover your history:

For Married Couples

• Marriage certificate (must be legally recognized)
• Photos from wedding and together over time
• Evidence of living together (if you have)
• Communication records (WhatsApp, calls, messages)
• Travel history – visits to see each other

For Unmarried Partners

You must prove you have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years. Evidence includes:

• Proof of shared address for 2+ years (utility bills, tenancy agreements)
• Joint bank accounts or financial commitments
• Official letters addressed to both of you

English Language Requirement

You must prove English at CEFR Level A1 (basic) for the initial visa. Options:

• IELTS Life Skills A1: Taken at a UKVI-approved centre in Kenya
• Degree taught in English: From a recognized institution

At the extension stage (after 2.5 years), you need A2 level. At ILR stage, you need B1.

TB Test and Biometrics (Kenya)

TB Test

Required at IOM Nairobi for all Kenyan applicants.

• Cost: ~KES 8,000
• Valid for 6 months

Biometrics

After online application, book at VFS Global Nairobi or Mombasa.

Accommodation Requirement

Your UK sponsor must show that you will have adequate accommodation that:

• Is not overcrowded
• You will not be claiming public housing assistance

Evidence: Tenancy agreement, mortgage statement, or property ownership documents.

Path to Settlement

The Spouse Visa is a route to permanent residence:

1. Initial visa: 33 months (2 years 9 months)
2. Extension: Another 30 months
3. After 5 years total: Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
4. After ILR: Can apply for British citizenship

Once you have ILR, you can work in any job without restrictions, similar to Skilled Worker Visa holders who have settled.

Common Refusal Reasons

• Financial shortfall: UK sponsor doesn't earn £29,000+
• Weak relationship evidence: Not enough photos, messages, or proof of contact
• Inconsistent information: Dates and facts don't match between partners
• English test not valid: Using the wrong type of IELTS
• Inadequate accommodation: Home is overcrowded

Bringing Children

You can include your children (under 18) in your application as dependants. They will need:

• Their own visa application and fees
• Birth certificates proving relationship to you
• Consent from the other parent if not traveling with you

Costs Summary for Kenyan Applicants