A UK Spouse Visa grants an opportunity for a foreign individual to come and work in the United Kingdom based on his marriage with a British partner or someone who has settled status in the UK. This is one of the wide arrays of options that can be opted for by those wishing to set up a life together in the UK. However, before entering a long-term commitment. It is very important to know what rights and limitations such a visa entails. This post will discuss what you can do during the time that you are on a UK spouse visa.
- Live in the UK
Possibly one of the most obvious advantages of a UK Spouse Visa is the opportunity to live with your spouse in the UK. For an initial period of 30 months (2.5 years), visa holders are allowed to stay in the country, which can be extended for another 30 months before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This time will be used to settle into the new life in the UK and begin familiarization with British society, including culture, language, and laws.
- Work in the UK
The privilege of working is one of the prime benefits of the UK Spouse Visa. Being a visa holder gives one the security to work for any employer in the UK, in any profession. In other words, one can be involved in any job, whether part-time or full-time, and start their own business as well. It allows you this flexibility, whether you want to continue with your career, seek other opportunities, or build on your skills.
However, your ability to work is dependent on skills, qualifications, and experiences, since you must also comply with the laws regarding employment in the UK. Another option may be depending on visa status, but regardless of this, there is no restriction as to what type of job an international person is eligible for.
- Study in the UK
With a UK Spouse Visa, you can also study in the UK. Whether it is a short course for learning a new skill, or you want to pursue a degree at a university, the UK offers various opportunities for education. You won't have to apply for a separate student visa to study while on a Spouse Visa, thus it becomes an excellent option for people who would want to further their studies while living and working in the UK.
- Access to Healthcare
The NHS is a government-run healthcare provider. It is funded by taxpayers. Free treatment will cover most healthcare needs, including hospital, doctor, and emergency services. A healthcare surcharge, which must be paid at the time of visa application, allows for the substance to cover medical expenses whenever necessary.
- Family Life and Rights to Bring Children
While on the Spouse visa, if one already has children or wishes to have children, dependent children may be able to join them in the UK on the same visa. Such children will, as such, be able to study and live as citizens in the UK, by extension, family life can be enjoyed by all family members while they can also apply for citizenship for any children born in the UK.
- Pathway to Settlement
UK Spouse Visa is more than a short-term fix. It lays down a root for the long haul or set in stone an applicant for British citizenship. After having spent five years in the UK under the Spouse visa, one may apply for ILR, which in a nutshell means indefinite leave to remain in the UK and granting permanent residence. This five-year time span is followed by one year, in which an applicant can apply for British citizenship, provided that certain criteria are fulfilled, including the passing of the Life in the UK Test and evidence of knowledge of English.
Final Thoughts
The UK Spouse Visa has many benefits that enable you to live, work, and study while maintaining a family life with your spouse in the UK. In short, the opportunities given under this visa are tremendous, and with some planning, it can, and should, provide for a good foundation for the future in the UK. Always check requirements under the visa up to the renewal and eventual settlement and keep to the legal path.
