UK Spouse Visa Fees in 2026: How Much Does It Really Cost?

Working out the true cost of a UK spouse visa is one of the first questions couples ask us. The headline application fee is only part of the picture: once you add the Immigration Health Surcharge and optional extras, the real figure is significantly higher. Here is the full breakdown using the Home Office fees that took effect on 8 April 2026.

The Home Office application fee

Applying from outside the UK (entry clearance): £2,064.

Applying from inside the UK (extension or switching): £1,407.

The fee is per applicant, is not refunded if the application is refused, and usually rises each April — always check the current figure on GOV.UK before you pay.

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

The IHS gives you access to the NHS and costs £1,035 per year of visa, paid upfront in full.

First visa from overseas (33 months): £3,105.

Extension inside the UK (30 months): £2,587.50.

What the totals look like

Applying from outside the UK: £2,064 fee + £3,105 IHS = £5,169 in mandatory Home Office costs.

Extending inside the UK: £1,407 fee + £2,587.50 IHS = £3,994.50.

These figures do not include optional services or professional fees.

Optional extras that add to the bill

Priority processing (decision in around 30 working days from overseas, or 5 working days in the UK): £500 where available.

Super priority (next working day, in-country applications): £1,000 where available.

Biometric enrolment: £19.20 in some cases.

You may also need to budget for an approved English language test, a TB test certificate in some countries, and certified translations of documents.

Solicitor fees

Professional preparation is optional but it is where most refusals are prevented. We handle spouse visa applications for a fixed fee from £1,000, which covers eligibility assessment against the £29,000 income and £88,500 savings routes, document review, legal representations and submission. Home Office fees are always paid separately, so you know exactly where every pound goes.

Plan before you pay

Fees are not refunded on refusal, so the most expensive spouse visa is one that fails. If your finances are borderline or your situation is complicated, take advice before paying £5,000+ to the Home Office.

This guide was reviewed by Kashif Iqbal, Solicitor, on 13 September 2026. Figures reflect Home Office fees from 8 April 2026 and may change; check GOV.UK for the current amounts. This article is general information, not legal advice.