Planning to join your spouse in the United Kingdom from the United States is exciting, but it also requires serious financial preparation. Understanding the cost of a spouse visa UK USA is essential before you begin your application. Between government fees, healthcare surcharges, document preparation, and optional legal support, the expenses can add up quickly. Being aware of the full financial picture helps couples avoid surprises and budget more effectively.

The first major component of the cost of a spouse visa UK USA is the visa application fee itself. As of 2025, the UK government charges approximately £1,846 (about $2,300 USD, depending on exchange rates) for a standard spouse visa application submitted from outside the UK. This covers the initial 33-month visa and must be paid online when you submit your application through the UK government portal.

In addition to the application fee, you’ll also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This fee grants the visa holder access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and is currently set at £1,035 per year. For a 2.5-year visa, the total IHS comes to around £2,587.50, or roughly $3,200 USD. This amount is paid upfront, and it’s mandatory—even if the applicant already has private health insurance.

Other costs can include the price of gathering required documents. For instance, you may need to obtain official translations, notarized copies, or even a tuberculosis test if you’ve lived in a high-risk country. While U.S. citizens typically don’t need the TB test, any extensive international travel history may trigger this requirement. Also, approved English language tests typically cost around $150–$250, and these must be taken at UKVI-authorized test centers.

Some applicants choose to work with immigration attorneys or consultants to ensure their applications are prepared correctly the first time. Legal fees vary widely, but a full-service application package from a reputable UK immigration attorney in the U.S. can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000. While not required, professional help can be well worth it—especially if your case is complex or you’re concerned about mistakes that could result in rejection.

All things considered, the cost of a spouse visa UK USA often ranges between $6,000 and $10,000 when including application fees, health surcharges, legal support, and other documentation costs. Budgeting for these expenses ahead of time can help you feel more confident and prepared as you begin your journey to reunite in the UK.

Understanding the full cost of spouse visa UK USA helps couples plan wisely and reduces the risk of financial strain during this already emotional and life-changing transition.