Visa Fees, Immigration Health Surcharge, Lawyer Costs & All Hidden Expenses Explained
Planning to bring your spouse to the UK? The total cost goes far beyond the headline visa fee. When you add visa application fees, Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), biometrics, document preparation, and optional legal representation, couples should realistically budget £4,500 to £9,000 for a UK Spouse Visa application in 2026. This guide breaks down every cost—mandatory and hidden—so you can plan accurately and avoid surprises.
What Is the UK Spouse Visa?
The UK Spouse Visa (Family Visa) allows the husband, wife, or civil partner of a British citizen or settled person to live and work in the UK. It’s issued initially for 30 months (2.5 years), after which it must be extended for another 30 months before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). The visa is administered by the UK Home Office and comes with strict financial and documentation requirements.
Official UK Spouse Visa Fees 2026
Visa Application Fee
| Applying from Outside the UK | £1,846 |
| Applying from Inside the UK (Switch/Extend) | £1,258 |
Important: These fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The IHS gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). It’s mandatory and must be paid upfront at the time of application.
- IHS rate: £1,035 per year
- 30-month visa total: £2,587.50
- Payment: Full amount upfront (no installments)
Biometric & Appointment Fees
Applicants must attend an appointment to submit fingerprints and photographs.
- Standard biometrics: £19.20
- Priority appointment (optional): £100–£250
- Premium lounge (optional): £200–£300
Priority Processing Fees (Optional)
| Priority Service (30 working days) | ~£500 |
| Super Priority (next working day) | ~£1,000 |
Note: These fees do not guarantee approval—only faster processing.
UK Spouse Visa Lawyer Fees
Legal representation is optional but common, especially for complex cases. Lawyers help reduce refusal risk and ensure documentation meets Home Office standards.
| Service | Cost | What’s Included |
| Application Review | £500 – £1,000 | Document check and advice |
| Full Representation | £1,500 – £3,500 | Complete application handling |
| Complex Cases | £4,000+ | Refusals, income issues, self-employed |
When lawyers are especially helpful:
- Previous visa refusals
- Income shortfalls or complex finances
- Self-employed sponsors
- Complex family situations
Document Preparation Costs
Hidden costs often arise from documentation requirements:
- Certified translations: £20–£60 per page
- Document scanning & printing: £30–£100
- Relationship evidence compilation: £50–£200
- Accountant letters (self-employed): £150–£500
- Bank statements & employer letters: Variable
Hidden Expenses Most Applicants Overlook
- Currency conversion charges
- Travel to visa application centers
- Courier services for document delivery
- Document re-submission fees (if errors)
- Time off work for appointments
These can quietly add £300–£800 to your total budget.
Total UK Spouse Visa Cost Summary 2026
Minimum Cost (No Lawyer, No Priority)
- Visa fee: £1,846
- IHS (30 months): £2,587.50
- Biometrics: £19.20
Total: ~£4,450
Average Cost (With Lawyer & Extras)
- Visa + IHS: £4,433.50
- Lawyer fees: £1,500–£3,500
- Translations & documents: £200–£500
- Hidden costs: £300–£800
Total: £6,000 – £9,000
Frequently Asked Questions
Are UK spouse visa fees refundable if refused?
No. All application and IHS fees are non-refundable regardless of outcome.
Can I pay the IHS in installments?
No. The full IHS amount (£2,587.50 for 30 months) must be paid upfront.
Is a lawyer mandatory?
No, but legal support significantly reduces refusal risk, especially for complex cases.
Does my spouse visa fee cover dependents?
No. Each applicant (including children) pays separate fees.
Will costs increase after 2026?
UK immigration fees historically increase regularly, so budgeting early is wise.
Budget Smart, Apply Confident
The UK Spouse Visa costs far more than the headline fee suggests. When all mandatory and hidden expenses are totaled, couples should realistically prepare £4,500–£9,000 depending on complexity. Careful planning, accurate documentation, and realistic budgeting are the keys to a successful application. Understanding these costs early can make the difference between approval and refusal.
Plan thoroughly. Budget realistically. Reunite successfully.
