UK Spouse Visa

UK Spouse Visa Extension: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2024

If you’re in the UK on a Spouse Visa, you’ll need to apply for an extension before your initial 2.5-year visa expires to remain in the country. Extending your Spouse Visa is a crucial step toward securing indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and eventually British citizenship. In this guide, we'll cover the eligibility criteria, required documents, fees for 2024, and the application process.

What is a UK Spouse Visa Extension?

A Spouse Visa extension allows non-UK citizens married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen (or someone with settled status) to remain in the UK for an additional 30 months. You can extend this visa multiple times, but after completing five years in the UK on a Spouse Visa, you’ll be eligible to apply for ILR.

Eligibility Criteria for a Spouse Visa Extension

To qualify for a UK Spouse Visa extension, you and your partner must continue to meet the following requirements:

1. Genuine Relationship

You need to prove that you’re still in a genuine and subsisting relationship with your spouse or civil partner. Evidence of this may include:

• Joint tenancy agreements or mortgage documents.
• Correspondence showing shared responsibilities (e.g., bills, bank accounts).
• Photos of you and your partner together, as well as communication logs.

2. Financial Requirement

You and your partner must meet the financial requirement, which is currently set at £18,600 per year. This amount increases if you have dependent children:

• £22,400 for one child.
• An additional £2,400 for each child after the first.

Income can come from employment, self-employment, savings, pensions, or other accepted sources.

3. English Language Requirement

For the extension, you’ll need to show a higher level of English proficiency than when you initially applied. You must pass an English test at A2 level or higher, unless you're exempt due to being from a majority English-speaking country (e.g., USA, Australia) or holding a degree taught in English.

4. Accommodation Requirement

You must demonstrate that you have adequate accommodation for yourself, your partner, and any dependents. You’ll need to provide proof, such as a tenancy agreement, mortgage statement, or a letter from your landlord confirming that you live together.

Documents Required for a Spouse Visa Extension

When applying to extend your Spouse Visa, you’ll need to submit the following supporting documents:

• Valid passport and any previous travel documents.
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate.
• Proof of your ongoing relationship (e.g., correspondence, joint bills, photos).
• Financial evidence (bank statements, pay slips, tax returns).
• Proof of accommodation (tenancy agreements, mortgage statements, etc.).
• Evidence of English language proficiency (A2 level test certificate).
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable).

Ensure that all documents are in English or have certified translations.

Application Process for a Spouse Visa Extension

1. Online Application

You must apply online via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website using the FLR(M) form (Further Leave to Remain).

2. Visa Fees

The fees for applying to extend your Spouse Visa in 2024 are as follows:

• Application Fee (from within the UK): £1,048.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year, making the total for the extension £1,560 for the 2.5 years.
• Biometric Fee: £19.20 for providing biometric information (fingerprints and photo).

3. Biometric Appointment

After submitting your online application, you’ll need to book a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center. During this appointment, you will provide your fingerprints and photograph.

4. Submit Supporting Documents

You can either upload your supporting documents online or take them with you to your biometric appointment.

5. Processing Times

Standard processing times are around 8 weeks for a decision. If you need a faster decision, you can opt for:

• Priority Service: £500 for a decision within 5 working days.
• Super Priority Service: £800 for a decision by the next working day.

Key Tips for a Successful Spouse Visa Extension Application

1. Provide Sufficient Financial Evidence One of the most common reasons for visa refusals is failure to meet the financial requirement. Make sure you provide clear evidence of your income, including payslips, bank statements, and tax returns.

2. Ensure All Documents are Complete Double-check that you’ve included all necessary documents. Incomplete applications can result in delays or refusals.

3. Meet the English Language Requirement Ensure you have an updated A2-level English language certificate, or proof of exemption, to avoid complications during the application process.

4. Apply Early Submit your application before your current visa expires to avoid overstaying, which can negatively affect future immigration applications.

After Your Spouse Visa Extension: Next Steps

Once your extend spouse visa uk is granted, you’ll have another 2.5 years in the UK. After spending a total of 5 years (60 months) on a Spouse Visa, you can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which allows you to live in the UK without time restrictions. After a year on ILR, you may also be eligible to apply for British citizenship.

Final Thoughts

Extending your UK Spouse Visa is a key step toward securing long-term residence in the UK. By ensuring that you meet all the eligibility criteria, gathering the required documents, and being aware of the fees and timelines, you’ll increase your chances of a successful extension. If you’re uncertain about any part of the process, consulting with an immigration specialist can help you avoid potential pitfalls and streamline your application.