Extending a UK Spouse Visa: A Complete Guide

When your initial UK spouse visa is nearing its expiration, it’s essential to apply for an extension to continue your stay in the country legally. This article covers everything you need to know about extending a spouse visa in the UK, including eligibility criteria, the application process, fees, and required documents.

What Is a UK Spouse Visa Extension?

A UK spouse visa allows foreign spouses of British citizens or settled persons to live and work in the UK. Initially, the visa is granted for 2.5 years, and before it expires, you need to apply for an extension to stay longer. Typically, this extension is for another 2.5 years, bringing you closer to the 5-year mark required for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Eligibility Criteria for a Spouse Visa Extension

To extend spouse visa uk, you must meet several requirements. These include:

Relationship Requirement: You must still be in a genuine and subsisting relationship with your UK-based partner, who should be a British citizen, settled in the UK, or have refugee status or humanitarian protection.

Financial Requirement: You and your spouse must prove that you have a combined income of at least £18,600 per year. If you have children who are not British citizens or settled, this threshold increases by £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child.

Accommodation: You need to demonstrate that you and your spouse have adequate accommodation without relying on public funds.

English Language Requirement: You will need to show evidence that you meet the English language requirements. This may be through a passed English test at CEFR level A2 or higher, or an academic qualification taught in English.

Good Character: You should not have a significant criminal record, nor should you have breached immigration laws during your stay.

Documents Required for a Spouse Visa Extension

When applying to extend your UK spouse visa, you’ll need to provide several documents to support your application. These include:

Proof of relationship: Marriage or civil partnership certificate, photographs, joint bills, correspondence addressed to both of you.

Proof of finances: Bank statements, payslips, employment contracts, or proof of self-employment.

Accommodation details: Tenancy agreement or mortgage statements, utility bills.

English language proof: Certificate from an approved English test provider, or proof of an academic qualification.

Passport: Your current passport and your spouse’s passport or identity document.

Previous visa: Copy of your current visa, showing your lawful residence in the UK.

How to Apply for a Spouse Visa Extension

You can apply for a spouse visa extension online through the UK government's official website. Here’s an outline of the steps:

Complete the Application Form: Fill out the FLR (M) form, which is the application form for extending your stay as a spouse.

Pay the Application Fee: As of 2024, the fee for a spouse visa extension is £1,033. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year.

Submit Biometrics: You’ll be asked to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center.

Submit Documents: Upload the required documents to the online portal or have them scanned at the UKVCAS center.

Wait for a Decision: Once you’ve completed your application, it can take several months for a decision. While waiting, you’ll be allowed to remain in the UK.

Spouse Visa Extension Fees and Processing Time

The standard processing time for a spouse visa extension is around 8 weeks from the date of your biometrics appointment. If you need a quicker decision, you can opt for the priority service, which costs an additional £500 and typically provides a decision within 5 working days.

In terms of costs:

Application fee: £1,033 (as of 2024)

Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year

Priority service (optional): £500

What Happens After a Spouse Visa Extension?

Once your extension is approved, you’ll receive another visa valid for 30 months. You must continue to meet the visa conditions, such as living with your spouse in the UK, until you qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after completing 5 years in the UK on a spouse visa.

Common Reasons for Spouse Visa Extension Refusals

There are several reasons why an application for a spouse visa extension could be refused. These include:

Failure to meet the financial requirements.

Inadequate documentation to prove the genuineness of your relationship.

English language requirement not met.

Incorrect or incomplete application forms.

To avoid refusal, ensure all documents are in order, and the application form is filled out accurately.

Conclusion

Extending your UK spouse visa is a critical step toward remaining in the UK and working towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). By ensuring you meet the necessary requirements and providing all the correct documents, you can increase your chances of a successful application. Always apply in advance of your visa's expiration to avoid issues, and if necessary, seek legal advice to assist with complex situations.