Many British citizens and their spouses face huge costs, with the initial visa application costing £4,951(including the healthcare surcharge), the extension application priced at £3,845.50, and the settlement (ILR) application at £2,885. Over five years, families may have to pay more than £11,000.

I do not believe family unity should not come with an exorbitant price tag. I believe the current system places undue stress on families, penalising them for seeking the simple right to live together. I think reforming the spouse visa process is essential to uphold fairness, equality, and compassion in the UK’s immigration policies. I believe Ireland’s Spouse Immigration System offers a model of fairness and compassion. Spouses of Irish citizens are exempt from visa fees.