When applying for a UK Spouse Visa, one of the most important requirements is to show that your relationship with your partner is both genuine and subsisting. In other words, the Home Office must be convinced that your relationship is real, ongoing and not formed simply for immigration purposes.
Why Evidence Matters
The Immigration Rules under Appendix FM make clear that it is not enough to provide proof of a marriage or civil partnership. Applicants must also demonstrate that their relationship is authentic, continuing and that both partners intend to live together permanently in the United Kingdom.
Because of the potential for marriages of convenience, the Home Office carefully examines every application. Strong, consistent evidence will help establish trust in your case. On the other hand, gaps or inconsistencies in the documents may cause doubts and increase the risk of refusal.
Evidence When Applying From Outside the UK
If you are making your application from overseas, the Home Office will expect to see clear evidence that your relationship is genuine and ongoing, despite the geographical distance. Useful documents include:
- Official Documents
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate (issued in accordance with the law of the country where the ceremony took place).
- Proof that you and your partner have met in person.
- Records of Communication
- Screenshots of WhatsApp, text messages, or emails showing regular contact.
- Call logs and video call records to demonstrate consistent communication.
- Evidence that the relationship has developed over time and is not recent or superficial.
- Travel Evidence
- Boarding passes, travel tickets and passport stamps showing visits to one another.
- Photographs taken together over the course of the relationship.
This type of evidence demonstrates that the relationship has remained active and subsisting, even while you have lived apart.
Evidence When Applying From Inside the UK
If you are applying from within the United Kingdom, the Home Office places particular weight on evidence that you and your partner are cohabiting and leading a shared life. Common examples include:
- Joint Tenancy or Mortgage Agreements
- Rental contracts or property ownership documents showing both names.
- Letters from landlords confirming cohabitation.
- Utility Bills and Household Accounts
- Council tax bills.
- Gas, electricity and water bills.
- Other household bills, such as phone contracts, TV licence, or broadband subscriptions.
- Official Correspondence
- Driving licences registered at the same address.
- GP or hospital letters sent to the shared address.
- Payslips, DWP or HMRC letters linking both partners to the same residence.
Such documentation demonstrates ongoing cohabitation, confirming the relationship is not only genuine but also firmly established within the UK.
Why Legal Expertise is Crucial for Spouse Visa Applications
Proving a genuine and subsisting relationship to the Home Office can be complex. One missing or inconsistent document may be enough to place your application at risk. The stakes are high and the evidence you provide can make the difference between approval and refusal.
With over 20 years of experience, Morgan Smith Immigration Lawyers know exactly what documents the Home Office looks for when assessing a UK Spouse Visa application. Our skilled provide a tailored list of evidence based on your specific circumstances, ensuring that your application is both thorough and persuasive.
Do not risk refusal. Contact our team today at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected] to receive expert legal advice and specialist guidance that will give your application the best possible chance of success.
