For many couples, marriage is the beginning of a shared journey. But if you are a British citizen or settled in the UK and your wife lives in Pakistan, the next step is often applying for a UK Spouse Visa. This visa allows your wife to join you in the UK so you can build your life together.
At Family Visa Lawyers, we specialise in helping couples navigate this process. Here’s a clear breakdown of the 2025 rules and requirements.
Who Can Apply for a UK Spouse Visa?
To qualify, the sponsor (the UK-based husband) must be one of the following:
- A British or Irish citizen
- A person with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or settled status
- Someone with refugee status or humanitarian protection
The applicant (the wife in Pakistan) must:
- Be 18 or over
- Be legally married in a marriage recognised under UK law
- Intend to live together permanently in the UK
Recognition of Nikkah, Court Marriages, and the NADRA Certificate
In Pakistan, marriage often involves two important steps: the Nikkah ceremony and, in some cases, a court marriage.
- A Nikkah ceremony is an Islamically recognised marriage. When properly registered, the Nikkah Nama (marriage contract) can be used as evidence of marriage in a UK Spouse Visa application.
- A court marriage ensures the marriage is legally binding under civil law, with the court playing a central role in validating the union.
- The official marriage certificate most widely accepted for immigration purposes is the Computerized Marriage Certificate issued by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority). This bilingual certificate (Urdu and English) is recognised by the UK Home Office as proof of a valid marriage.
For the strongest application, couples should submit the NADRA Computerized Marriage Certificate alongside the Nikkah Nama or court documents.
Arranged Marriages in Pakistani Culture
It is also important to note that in Pakistan, arranged marriages are very common and culturally accepted. Many couples marry through family introductions or arrangements, and this is considered a normal and respected practice.
The UK Home Office does not refuse spouse visa applications simply because a marriage was arranged. What matters is that the marriage is genuine, legally valid, and that both partners intend to live together permanently in the UK.
The Financial Requirement: £29,000 Minimum Income
As of 11 April 2024, the Home Office requires UK sponsors to show a minimum annual income of £29,000 to bring their spouse to the UK.
This can be met through:
- Employment income (salary or wages)
- Self-employment income
- Certain other income sources (e.g. rental income, pensions)
- Savings (if income is below £29,000, savings may be used to make up the shortfall)
If you are applying with children, the threshold may increase further.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Requirement
Applicants from Pakistan must take a Tuberculosis (TB) test at a UKVI-approved clinic before applying.
- The test usually involves a chest X-ray.
- If clear, the applicant receives a medical certificate valid for 6 months.
- This certificate must be included with the visa application.
- Approved clinics are located in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
Certificates from non-approved clinics will not be accepted.
Other Key Requirements
1. Genuine Relationship
You must prove your marriage is real and ongoing. Evidence can include:
- Marriage certificate (Nikkah Nama, court certificate, or NADRA certificate)
- Photos together
- Travel records and visits
- Communication logs
2. English Language Test
Your wife must pass an approved English test at A1 level (unless exempt).
3. Accommodation
You must show you have suitable housing in the UK that is not overcrowded and not reliant on public funds.
Application Process from Pakistan
- Online Application – completed on the UK Government website.
- Biometrics Appointment – at a VFS Global centre in Pakistan (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi).
- Supporting Documents – uploaded online or submitted at the visa centre.
- Decision Time – usually up to 12 weeks, though priority services may be available.
If approved, your wife will receive a visa valid for 33 months, with the option to extend and later apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Not meeting the £29,000 income threshold
- Missing or inconsistent financial documents
- Weak relationship evidence
- Incorrect English test or TB test certificate
Tips for a Strong Application
- Start collecting financial and relationship evidence early.
- Double-check your income meets the £29,000 threshold.
- Book the TB test at an approved clinic in good time.
- Ensure your marriage certificate (Nikkah Nama, court marriage certificate, or NADRA certificate) is valid under UK law.
- Remember that arranged marriages are perfectly acceptable — just focus on proving the relationship is genuine.
- Seek legal advice if your case is complex (e.g. income shortfalls, previous refusals).
How Family Visa Lawyers Can Help
At Family Visa Lawyers, we’ve helped many UK sponsors successfully bring their wives from Pakistan. With the new financial rules, TB test requirement, and strict documentation checks, applications are under greater scrutiny than ever.
We can:
- Review your financial documents to ensure they meet the £29,000 requirement
- Guide you through the TB test and English test requirements
- Advise on the correct marriage certificates to submit (Nikkah Nama, court marriage, NADRA)
- Prepare a strong legal representation letter to support your application
Ready to Apply?
If you’re planning to bring your wife from Pakistan to the UK, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Family Visa Lawyers today for expert guidance.
Visit www.familyvisa.co.uk to book a consultation.
