The UK’s immigration system offers more than one route for spouses and partners of British citizens or settled persons. While many people apply under the 5-year route, not everyone is able to meet its stricter eligibility rules. For those couples, the Home Office provides an alternative – the 10-year spouse visa route.
This option allows people to remain with their partner in the UK even if they cannot meet income, accommodation or English language requirements. It takes longer to achieve settlement, but it provides a vital lifeline for families who would otherwise be separated.
Why does the 10-year route exist?
The standard 5-year spouse visa route has strict requirements. Applicants must prove a minimum household income of £18,600 (higher if children are included), demonstrate knowledge of English and show that suitable accommodation is available. Not every couple can meet those standards.
The 10-year route was designed as a more flexible pathway. It takes into account family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects the right to a private and family life. This means that couples who cannot meet the financial or language thresholds may still be granted leave to remain, provided they can show their relationship is genuine and subsisting.
Key requirements for the 10-year route
While the 10-year spouse visa route is more flexible, it is not automatic. Applicants must still satisfy a number of core requirements, including:
- Both partners must be aged 18 or over
- The relationship must be genuine, subsisting and recognised under UK law
- The couple must intend to live together permanently in the UK
- Evidence of the relationship, such as joint bills, tenancy agreements or photographs, must be provided
Unlike the 5-year route, applicants do not have to prove they meet the minimum income level or English language requirements at the outset. This makes it possible for more couples to remain together in the UK, even if one partner is unemployed, studying or still developing their English skills.
How does the 10-year route work?
When granted under this route, the initial visa is valid for 30 months (two and a half years). At the end of that period, the applicant must apply for an extension of a further 30 months. This process is repeated until the applicant has completed 10 years of continuous residence in the UK on this visa route.
At the end of 10 years, the applicant can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided they still meet the relationship requirements and pass additional settlement tests.
Switching to the 5-year route
Some couples begin on the 10-year route but later become eligible for the 5-year route. This usually happens when their financial or English language circumstances improve. In such cases, it may be possible to switch routes at the next visa renewal stage.
However, time already spent on the 10-year route will not count towards the 5-year settlement period. The clock restarts from the moment the 5-year route begins. Couples should therefore weigh the advantages of faster settlement against the time already invested in the 10-year path.
Applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain after 10 years
Once an applicant has lived in the UK for 10 continuous years on this visa, they can apply for ILR. At this stage, they must meet several requirements, including:
- Passing the Life in the UK Test
- Meeting an English language requirement at B1 level or higher
- Showing evidence of continuous residence throughout the 10-year period
- Proving that the relationship with their partner remains genuine and ongoing
ILR is the first step towards full settlement, as it allows the individual to live in the UK without immigration restrictions and eventually apply for British citizenship.
Costs and challenges of the 10-year route
One of the main drawbacks of the 10-year route is cost. Because the visa must be renewed every 2.5 years, applicants face multiple application fees and Immigration Health Surcharge payments over the course of a decade. This can amount to several thousands of pounds in total.
There is also the uncertainty that comes with having to repeatedly renew the visa. Each application requires updated evidence and exposes the applicant to the risk of refusal if circumstances change. Critics argue that this creates instability for families and makes long-term planning more difficult.
Which is best for you?
The 10-year spouse visa route provides an essential option for couples who cannot meet the strict criteria of the 5-year route. While it takes longer and involves higher costs over time, it allows families to stay together in the UK when other options may not be available.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for the 5-year route or if the 10-year route is the best path for you, seeking professional legal advice is strongly recommended. At Osbourne Pinner Solicitors, our immigration specialists can assess your situation, explain your options and support you through the application process. We’re on hand in Harrow, Canary Wharf, Piccadilly Circus and Manchester – plus remotely via video call.
Start with a free 30-minute consultation to help you understand your options and prepare a strong application. Use the form below, call 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected].
