Marriage brings two people together—but when international borders are involved, paperwork, rules, and financial commitments follow closely. If you’re planning to join your spouse in the United Kingdom, one of the most important things to consider is the cost of a UK Marriage Visa. In 2025, the fees and related expenses have changed slightly, reflecting updates in government services, healthcare contributions, and currency fluctuations. This guide outlines all the costs involved and helps you budget accurately for your application.
What Is a UK Marriage Visa?
A Marriage Visa—often referred to as a UK Spouse Visa—allows a non-UK partner to live with their British citizen or settled partner in the United Kingdom. This visa is suitable for married couples and those in civil partnerships, provided the relationship is genuine and both parties meet specific eligibility requirements.
Once granted, the visa usually lasts for 30 months (if applied from inside the UK) or 33 months (if applied from outside the UK), and can be extended. After 5 years, it can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship.
Breakdown of UK Marriage Visa Costs in 2025
The cost of a UK Marriage Visa in 2025 includes multiple components:
1. Visa Application Fee
The Home Office visa fee depends on whether you’re applying from outside or inside the UK:
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Outside the UK: £1,846
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Inside the UK (switching or extending): £1,048
This is the standard application fee. If you apply from inside the UK, you may be eligible for the super priority service at an additional cost, speeding up your decision to within one working day.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
All applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
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Current rate (2025): £1,035 per year
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Total for 2.5 years (initial visa): £2,587.50
This is paid upfront at the time of application. If you extend your visa for another 2.5 years, you will need to pay the IHS again.
3. Biometric Enrollment Fee
Applicants need to submit biometric data (fingerprints and photo). The fee for biometric enrollment is:
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UK-based applicants: £19.20
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Outside the UK: Often included in the visa center appointment fee (varies by country)
4. Translation and Document Certification Fees
If your supporting documents are not in English or Welsh, you must submit certified translations.
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Translation costs per page: £20–£60 (depending on the provider and complexity)
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Total cost (approximate): £100–£300
5. Legal and Consultant Fees (Optional)
Many applicants choose to hire immigration lawyers or visa consultants for help. While this is not mandatory, it can be helpful for complex cases or first-time applicants.
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Consultation fee: £100–£200
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Full visa service: £800–£1,500
Always check the qualifications and reputation of the immigration advisor or solicitor before paying for services.
6. Document Scanning and Uploading Service (UKVCAS)
If applying from within the UK, you may be required to upload your documents via the UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) platform.
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Self-upload: Free
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Assisted scanning: Around £75–£100 depending on location
7. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Fee
This test is required for applicants from certain countries before applying for a UK visa.
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Typical cost: £65–£110 depending on the clinic and location
Check the official list of countries that require TB testing for visa purposes.
Estimated Total Cost of a UK Marriage Visa in 2025
Here’s a rough estimate for someone applying from outside the UK:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | £1,846 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £2,587.50 |
| Biometric Fee (outside UK) | Included |
| TB Test (if applicable) | £100 |
| Document Translation/Certification | £150 |
| Optional Legal Assistance | £1,000 |
| Total (approximate) | £5,683.50 |
And for someone applying within the UK:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | £1,048 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £2,587.50 |
| Biometric Fee | £19.20 |
| Document Translation/Certification | £150 |
| Optional Legal Assistance | £1,000 |
| UKVCAS Uploading (if assisted) | £100 |
| Total (approximate) | £4,904.70 |
Other Potential Costs to Consider
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Travel Expenses for attending appointments or collecting biometric data
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Accommodation documents, such as tenancy agreements or mortgage letters
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Bank statements and translations from foreign institutions
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Postage or courier fees for sending documents to the UK or visa center
Tips to Save on UK Marriage Visa Costs
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Plan Early: Collect and prepare your documents in advance to avoid paying for expedited services.
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Avoid Mistakes: A rejected visa application means starting over—and paying the fees again.
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Use Official Resources: The UK Home Office and GOV.UK provide free, updated information to guide you.
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Compare Legal Help: If hiring an immigration advisor, get quotes from several providers.
Final Thoughts
While the UK Marriage Visa process in 2025 is more streamlined than in previous years, the costs remain significant. From visa fees to healthcare surcharges, every element adds up. Knowing what to expect financially can help reduce stress and increase your chances of a smooth and successful application. Be sure to prepare your documents carefully, understand your eligibility, and seek help if needed.
Investing in a well-prepared application now may save you thousands later—both in reapplications and in time lost apart from your loved one.
FAQs:
1. Is the Immigration Health Surcharge refundable if my visa is refused?
Yes, if your visa is refused, you will receive a full refund of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fee.
2. Can I pay the Marriage Visa fee in installments?
No. All visa-related fees must be paid in full upfront before the application is processed.
3. How much does it cost to renew a UK Marriage Visa?
Renewing a Marriage Visa (also called Further Leave to Remain) costs £1,048 (application fee) + £2,587.50 (IHS), not including any legal or document fees.
4. What happens if I can’t afford the visa fee?
In rare cases of financial hardship, applicants may apply for a fee waiver, but strict eligibility rules apply, especially if you’re already in the UK.
5. Is legal help required for a Marriage Visa?
No, but it can be beneficial—especially if your case involves previous visa refusals, complex documents, or issues with meeting the financial requirement.
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