What accommodation evidence do I need for a UK spouse visa?

You typically need to show you have adequate accommodation in the UK without overcrowding — usually through a tenancy agreement or proof of ownership, plus a property inspection report where required. Rules vary by situation; check gov.uk.

What is a property inspection report?

A report from an approved surveyor confirming the property meets housing standards and is not overcrowded for the number of occupants. Required in many rented or shared accommodation cases.

Can I use my parents' house?

Living with family is allowed if you can evidence adequate space and permission to live there. You may need a letter from the owner, proof of ownership, and an inspection report depending on the arrangement.

What counts as overcrowding?

Overcrowding is assessed against UK housing standards and the number of rooms and occupants. gov.uk and the inspection report criteria set out how this is measured — don't rely on informal estimates.

Guide · Accommodation

UK spouse visa accommodation requirement

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How to evidence adequate accommodation without overcrowding.

Quick answer

For a UK spouse visa you must show you have adequate accommodation in the UK — a property with enough space for your household without overcrowding. Evidence usually includes proof of ownership or a tenancy agreement, and often a property inspection report from an approved surveyor. Confirm current rules at gov.uk/uk-family-visa.

Key takeaways

01You must show adequate accommodation in the UK without overcrowding for the number of occupants.
02Evidence typically includes proof of ownership or a tenancy agreement, plus a property inspection report where required.
03Living with family is allowed if you evidence permission, space, and compliance with housing standards.
04The address on your accommodation documents must match other application evidence consistently.

Source-checked against GOV.UK · Editorial policyPrepared by Zahir AbdiLast updated 21 June 2026

Evidence by living situation

Owned property

Mortgage statement, land registry document, or council tax bill showing ownership and address.

Rented property

Tenancy agreement, letter from landlord, and often a property inspection report from an approved surveyor.

Living with family

Letter from the owner granting permission, proof of ownership, and inspection report confirming adequate space.

How to put evidence together

Step 01
Confirm who owns or rents the property
Identify whether the accommodation is owned, rented, or lived in with family — each requires different documents.
Step 02
Gather property evidence
Collect a tenancy agreement, mortgage statement, or land registry document showing the address and occupants.
Step 03
Obtain an inspection report if required
For rented or shared accommodation, a property inspection report from an approved surveyor may be needed to confirm no overcrowding.
Step 04
Include a cover letter explaining the arrangement
Briefly explain who lives at the address, room usage, and how it meets the adequate accommodation requirement.

Accommodation is one of five evidence areas — see our full document checklist and common refusal reasons.

Questions & answers

Frequently asked questions

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