Applying for a UK spouse visa from South Africa can feel overwhelming. With changing immigration rules, strict financial thresholds, and long waiting times, it’s no surprise that many South Africans turn to Google with questions like:
“What are the UK spouse visa requirements from South Africa?”
“How much does a UK family visa cost in 2025?”
“How long is the UK spouse visa processing time?”
This guide brings together the most searched topics to help you understand the process — and prepare your application with confidence.
What Is a UK Spouse Visa?
The UK spouse visa (sometimes called a UK settlement visa or partner visa) allows South Africans married to, or in a long-term relationship with, a British citizen or settled person to live and work in the UK.
It’s part of the UK Family Visa category, which also covers fiancés, civil partners, and dependent children.
UK Spouse Visa Requirements for South Africans
When applying from South Africa, you’ll need to meet several key requirements:
Relationship requirement – You must be legally married, in a civil partnership, or have lived together for at least 2 years in a genuine relationship.
Age requirement – Both partners must be over 18.
Financial requirement – The UK sponsor must earn at least £29,000 per year (plus additional amounts for children). Savings can sometimes be used to meet this threshold.
English language requirement – You’ll need to pass an approved English test unless exempt.
Health requirement – A TB test from an approved clinic in South Africa is mandatory.
Documents – You’ll need proof of your relationship, finances, accommodation, and supporting forms.
UK Spouse Visa Costs in 2025
The cost is one of the most common Google searches by South Africans.
Visa application fee – £1,938 (paid online).
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – £1,035 per year (typically paid upfront for 2.5 years = £2,587.50).
Priority processing (optional) – additional £500+ (when available).
Processing Times
From South Africa, the standard spouse visa processing time is up to 12 weeks.
Some applicants choose the priority service, which can reduce this to around 6 weeks, though availability changes depending on UKVI resources.
After the Spouse Visa – Settlement in the UK
After 2.5 years, you must apply for an extension.
After 5 years, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) — also called a UK settlement visa.
ILR is the final step before applying for British citizenship.
Do You Need a Visa Agent or Lawyer?
Yes, you can apply on your own. But many applicants underestimate how complex and unforgiving the UK visa process can be. A small mistake — the wrong financial document, an outdated form, or an incorrectly uploaded file, can lead to long delays, costly refusals, or even the need to start over.
Working with a trusted agent takes that stress off your shoulders. Here’s how we make the difference:
Expert financial guidance – We make sure your finances meet the strict qualifying requirements and prepare the supporting paperwork in the exact format UKVI expects.
Accurate applications – Your online application is completed on your behalf, saving you time and ensuring every detail is correct from the start.
Hassle-free document handling – We upload your documents for you in the correct format, so you never have to worry about corrupt files or rejected uploads.
English test guidance – We advise you on the correct English test for your application, avoiding wasted time and money on the wrong one.
Support if things go wrong – If your visa is refused, we can guide you through appeals and next steps.
Direct legal insight – Our immigration lawyer has established contacts within UKVI, giving us an edge in resolving complex cases quickly.
- FREE child Dependent visas– We know children already cost enough
Instead of navigating confusing rules and risking delays, you’ll have an expert team protecting your application and giving you the best chance of success.
Final Thoughts
The UK spouse visa is one of the most complex immigration applications — especially with today’s financial and documentation requirements. By understanding the process, preparing the right documents, and (if needed) seeking help from a professional agent, you can avoid costly delays.
If you’re a South African planning your move, start early, double-check your evidence, and keep up with the latest updates.
📌 Ready to apply? Our team at Move Up Visa Solutions offers free case reviews to help you assess your eligibility.