Application Form
This is your starting point for the official UK spouse/partner visa application. The exact online form and journey depends on whether you are applying from outside the UK or from inside the UK.
Step 1 – Choose the right official application link
The UK government’s official guidance for partner/spouse visas is here:
Under the “How to apply” section on that page:
- If you’re outside the UK: you must apply online from outside the UK using the link on GOV.UK. This will start the correct online form for a family visa as a partner or spouse.
- If you’re inside the UK (switching or extending): you must apply online from inside the UK using the separate link for in-country applications.
Step 2 – If you’re applying from outside the UK (Entry Clearance)
After you start your application from the GOV.UK link:
- You’ll create an account and work through the online questions about you, your partner, and your relationship.
- Near the end, you’ll be directed to book a biometric appointment at a visa application centre (VAC) or to complete checks in the app (where available).
Before you reach the biometric step, it helps to:
- Gather the documents and evidence listed in GOV.UK’s “Information and evidence you must provide” section.
- Read this guide’s modules on evidence preparation, financial requirement, and document checklist so you can answer questions consistently with your supporting documents.
Find your nearest visa application centre (VAC)
If you’re applying from outside the UK, you can check where you’ll likely attend your appointment using the official VAC finder:
Use this to:
- See which city your VAC is in.
- Check opening times and any country-specific instructions.
- Plan travel early in case the VAC is far from where you live, or in a different country entirely.
You must submit your online application and pay the visa fee in full before you can book your appointment.
Step 3 – If you’re applying from inside the UK
If you are extending or switching to a partner/spouse visa from inside the UK, the “How to apply” section on the GOV.UK page will send you to the in-country application form.
- You’ll apply online and then be directed to book an appointment via UKVCAS (the in-country biometric service), or to use the ID Check app where eligible.
- Processing times and priority options inside the UK are different from applications outside the UK – check the GOV.UK guidance for the latest details.
Wherever you’re applying from, always treat the GOV.UK page as your source of truth for links and current rules, and use this guide to help you understand what each step means in practice.
Once your application is submitted, the next step is payment.