Spouse Visa

A spouse visa allows the husband or wife (or common-law/partner) of a person living abroad to join and live with them in another country. It is ideal for married couples, civil partners, or long-term committed partners where one person holds citizenship, permanent residency, or a valid visa (student, work, PR) in the destination country.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for a spouse visa if:

Your spouse or partner is a citizen, permanent resident, or valid visa holder in the country

You can prove a genuine and ongoing relationship

You meet financial, accommodation, and language requirements

You are legally married or in a recognized civil/long-term partnership

Popular Spouse Visa Categories

Canada: Spouse or Common-law Partner Sponsorship

UK: Spouse Visa under Family Visa route

Australia: Subclass 309/100 (Offshore) or 820/801 (Onshore)

USA: CR-1/IR-1 Immigrant Visa or K-3 Non-Immigrant Visa

New Zealand: Partner of a New Zealander Visa

Documents Required

Valid passports (both partners)

Marriage certificate or proof of relationship

Photographs together and communication history (emails, messages, etc.)

Joint financial documents or lease agreements

Sponsor’s proof of income and legal status (visa, PR, or citizenship)

Medical examination & police clearance (if required)

Passport-size photos, visa application form, and visa fees

Key Requirements

Proof of genuine and ongoing relationship

Legal marriage or recognized partnership

Minimum income or financial support by sponsor (varies by country)

Health and character clearance

Accommodation arrangements for the couple

Processing Time

Canada: 10–12 months (Spousal Sponsorship)

UK: 2–6 months (Spouse Visa)

Australia: 12–24 months (Subclass 309/100)

USA: 6–15 months (CR1/IR1)

New Zealand: 4–8 months (Partner Visa)

Visa Fees (Approximate)

Canada: CAD $1,080

UK: £1,846 (for outside UK applications)

Australia: AUD $8,850

USA: $535 (petition) + $325 (visa processing)

New Zealand: NZD $2,100

Tips for a Strong Application

Submit genuine relationship evidence (photos, call logs, social media history)

Be honest in your application and interview

Provide clear translations of non-English documents

Ensure financial proof and legal documents are up-to-date

Seek legal advice if your case is complex