UK Spouse Visa Translation Guide
Last updated: March 2026
The UK spouse visa (Appendix FM) requires certified translations of all non-English documents. This guide covers which documents need translating, costs, and how to ensure your translations meet Home Office requirements.
What documents do I need translated for a UK spouse visa?
For a UK spouse visa, you need certified translations of your marriage certificate, birth certificates, bank statements, employment letters, and any relationship evidence in a foreign language. All must include a statement of accuracy.
The spouse visa application requires extensive documentation to prove your identity, your marriage, your financial situation, and the genuineness of your relationship. Any document not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation.
The financial requirement for spouse visas is currently £29,000 per year (as of 2026). Supporting financial documents in a foreign language need translation.
- Marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate
- Birth certificates for applicant and dependents
- Bank statements (6 months minimum)
- Employment letters, payslips, or P60s
- Relationship evidence — messages, letters, photos with descriptions
- Divorce decrees (if previously married)
- Police clearance certificates
- Housing evidence if applicable
Do I need a notarised translation for a UK spouse visa?
No. UKVI does not require notarised translations for spouse visa applications. A certified translation with a statement of accuracy is sufficient and meets all Home Office requirements. This saves £30–£50 per document.
Many applicants are told by advisors or online forums that they need notarised translations. This is incorrect for UK visa applications. UKVI requires only a certified translation with a statement of accuracy, translator credentials, and contact details.
Saving on unnecessary notarisation can be significant — spouse visa applicants typically need 5–15 documents translated, so the saving could be £150–£750.
How much does spouse visa translation cost in total?
A typical spouse visa translation package costs £50–£200, depending on the number of documents. Individual documents cost from £12.99 per page. The total depends on how many pages of bank statements and relationship evidence you need translated.
The cost varies based on your specific situation. A straightforward application with a marriage certificate, two birth certificates, and a few bank statements might cost around £65–£90. A complex application with extensive relationship evidence could cost £150–£200.
We recommend translating only documents that are required — your immigration solicitor or advisor can help identify exactly which documents need certified translation.
- Marriage certificate: £12.99–£25.98 (1–2 pages)
- Birth certificates: £12.99 each (1 page)
- Bank statements: £12.99 per page (varies by length)
- Employment letters: £12.99–£25.98 (1–2 pages)
- Relationship evidence: varies
Tips for spouse visa translations
Order translations early, translate only required documents, keep copies of everything, and ensure your translator provides a full statement of accuracy with credentials. Using a specialist visa translation service reduces the risk of rejection.
Spouse visa applications are scrutinised carefully by UKVI caseworkers. Having professional, well-formatted certified translations demonstrates attention to detail and reduces the chance of delays or requests for further information.
Submit translations alongside the original documents — UKVI caseworkers need both the original and the translation to verify the content.
- Order translations before submitting your application
- Keep digital copies of all translations
- Ensure each translation has a statement of accuracy
- Submit originals alongside translations
- Use a specialist visa translation service
- Ask your solicitor which documents specifically need translating
Frequently Asked Questions
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UKVI-accepted certified translations from £12.99 per page. Statement of accuracy included. 24-hour delivery.