Guide to Spouse Visa Extension in the UK: Everything You Need to Know

For individuals who are married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or a person with settled status in the UK, a spouse visa is an essential pathway to live together in the UK. However, the initial spouse visa is only granted for 2.5 years (30 months). After this period, it is necessary to apply for a spouse visa extension to continue your stay. This article covers the essential details of the spouse visa extension process, eligibility, documents required, and what to expect.

1. Who Needs a Spouse Visa Extension?

If you’re currently residing in the UK on a spouse or partner visa and want to continue living with your partner beyond the initial 30 months, you need to apply for a spouse visa extension. This extension will allow you to stay for an additional 30 months, and after five years of continuous residence in the UK on a spouse visa, you may apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR).

2. Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a spouse visa extension, you must meet several criteria, similar to those for the initial visa. These include:

Relationship Requirement: You must still be in a genuine and subsisting relationship with your British or settled partner. It’s crucial to provide evidence of cohabitation, shared financial responsibilities, and ongoing communication if you were living apart.
Financial Requirement: The couple must demonstrate that they meet the minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year. If there are dependent children, the financial requirement increases accordingly. This can be proven through employment, self-employment, savings, or a combination of income sources.
English Language Requirement: You must pass an English language test at the A2 level (CEFR) unless you are exempt due to nationality or other qualifying factors.
Accommodation Requirement: You must show that you have adequate accommodation for both you and your partner, and any dependents, without relying on public funds.

3. Documents Required for Spouse Visa Extension

When applying for a spouse visa extension, you will need to submit several supporting documents. These typically include:

Valid Passport: Both yours and your partner’s passports.
Proof of Relationship: Documents such as a marriage or civil partnership certificate, photographs, travel itineraries, and evidence of cohabitation (e.g., joint bank statements, utility bills).
Proof of Income: Payslips, bank statements, tax returns (if self-employed), and employer letters confirming your financial circumstances.
Proof of English Proficiency: A certificate from an accredited English test provider or proof of a recognized degree taught in English.
Proof of Accommodation: Rental agreements or mortgage statements to confirm that you have a place to live.

4. Application Process

The spouse visa extension application can be made online through the UK government’s immigration website. The key steps in the process include:

Submitting Your Application: Fill out the online form, upload your documents, and pay the necessary fees (visa fee and healthcare surcharge).
Biometric Appointment: You will need to book a biometric appointment to submit your fingerprints and photo as part of your application.
Waiting Time: The processing time for a spouse visa extension is typically 8 weeks from the date of the biometric appointment. However, you may opt for a priority service for faster processing.

5. Application Fees

The cost of a spouse visa extension as of 2024 is £1,033 for the standard application. Additionally, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is currently £624 per year for adults. For a 2.5-year extension, this amounts to £1,560.

6. What Happens After the Extension?

Once your visa is extended, you can remain in the UK for another 30 months. You will have the same rights as before, including the right to work and access healthcare under the NHS.If you continue to meet the eligibility requirements and complete five years on a spouse visa, you will become eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which is a pathway to permanent residency.

7. Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Not meeting the financial requirement: If you fail to meet the income threshold, your application will likely be refused. Consider pooling income from multiple sources, such as combining employment income and savings.
Insufficient evidence of relationship: Make sure to provide consistent and comprehensive evidence that you and your spouse are living together and maintaining a genuine relationship.
Delays in Biometric Appointment: Book your biometric appointment as early as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.

Conclusion

Applying for a spouse visa extension can be a detailed and complex process, but it’s a critical step in securing your future in the UK with your partner. Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements, gather all necessary documents, and submit your application in time to avoid complications. With a successful extension, you’re one step closer to obtaining indefinite leave to remain and securing long-term residency in the UK. 4o