How to Extend Your Spouse Visa in the UK
How to Extend Your Spouse Visa in the UK
A UK spouse visa allows foreign nationals married to British citizens or settled individuals to live and work in the UK. However, this visa does not grant indefinite permission to stay, requiring renewal after 2.5 years for most applicants. Extend spouse visa UK is a critical step to ensure uninterrupted residency and work rights in the UK. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the extension process, eligibility requirements, documents, and tips for a successful application.
The spouse visa extension allows you to continue living in the UK with your partner beyond the initial visa duration. The extension typically lasts for another 2.5 years, enabling you to complete the five-year residency requirement necessary for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Spouse visa extension after 2.5 years fees 2024 . The recommended time to submit your application is within the last 28 days of your current visa validity. Applying late may result in complications, including the loss of your lawful immigration status.
To qualify for an extension, you must meet several requirements, similar to the initial visa application:
Genuine Relationship: You must continue to prove that your relationship with your partner is genuine and subsisting. Evidence like shared finances, tenancy agreements, and photographs together can help substantiate this.
Financial Requirements:
You and your partner must meet the minimum income threshold of £18,600 annually.
If you have dependent children, the threshold increases by £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.
Income from employment, self-employment, savings, or pensions can be counted.
English Language Requirement:
You must demonstrate English proficiency by passing an approved test at level A2 or higher.
If you previously provided evidence of meeting this requirement, you may need to update your test results for the extension.
Accommodation Proof: You must show that you have suitable accommodation for you and your family, adhering to UK housing standards.
A well-documented application is crucial for a successful outcome. Key documents include:
Personal Identification:
Current passport and biometric residence permit (BRP).
Passport-sized photographs of both you and your spouse.
Relationship Evidence:
Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
Evidence of cohabitation, such as utility bills, bank statements, or joint tenancy agreements.
Financial Proof:
Payslips for the last six months.
Bank statements corresponding to the payslips.
Tax returns or dividend statements if self-employed.
English Proficiency:
Certificate from an approved English language test provider.
Accommodation Evidence:
Tenancy agreement or mortgage statement.
Evidence of rental payments or utility bills.
The application process involves several steps:
1. Complete the Online Application
Visit the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website and complete the FLR(M) form. This form is specifically designed for partner visa extensions. Ensure all details are accurate and match your supporting documents.
2. Pay the Required Fees
The fees for a spouse visa extension are as follows:
Application fee: £1,048.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year.
Be prepared for additional costs, such as English language tests or document translation services, if required.
3. Submit Biometric Information
After submitting your application, you will receive instructions to book an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center. At the appointment, your biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) will be collected.
4. Upload Supporting Documents
You can upload the necessary documents online through the UKVCAS system or bring them to your biometric appointment for scanning. Ensure all documents are clear and legible.
5. Await a Decision
The standard processing time for a spouse visa extension is eight weeks. If you need a faster decision, you can opt for the priority service at an additional cost of £500, which provides a decision within five working days.
Start Early: Begin preparing your application well in advance of your visa expiry date to avoid last-minute issues.
Double-Check Your Documents: Ensure all documents are up-to-date, complete, and meet UKVI requirements. Incomplete applications may result in delays or refusal.
Address Financial Shortfalls: If you do not meet the income threshold, consider combining income sources or using savings to bridge the gap.
Provide Clear Relationship Evidence: UKVI may scrutinize your relationship evidence closely, so include varied and detailed proof to establish authenticity.
Seek Professional Advice: Consult an immigration lawyer if you are unsure about any part of the application process.
If your extension application is denied, you may:
Submit an administrative review if you believe the decision was incorrect.
Reapply with additional evidence to address the reasons for refusal.
Appeal the decision, though this is only possible in specific cases where human rights issues are involved.