How to Extend Your UK Spouse Visa: A Complete Guide
Extending a UK spouse visa is an essential step for many couples who want to continue living together in the UK after the initial visa period expires. The spouse visa, also known as a partner visa, is typically issued for 2.5 years (30 months), after which an extension is required if you wish to remain in the UK. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of applying for a spouse visa extension, including eligibility requirements, application steps, and important considerations.
What is a UK Spouse Visa Extension?
A UK spouse visa allows the spouse or partner of a British citizen or a person settled in the UK to live and work in the UK. After the initial 2.5-year period, if you want to continue living in the UK, you must apply for an extension, which will grant you an additional 2.5 years. After five years of continuous residence, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is the pathway to permanent residency.
Who Needs to Apply for a Spouse Visa Extension?
You need to apply for a spouse visa extension if you are:
- Currently living in the UK on a spouse visa (partner visa)
- Approaching the end of your initial 30-month visa period
- Still meeting the eligibility criteria required for a spouse visa
It’s important to apply for your extension before your current visa expires to avoid legal complications.
Eligibility Criteria for a Spouse Visa Extension
To successfully extend your spouse visa, you must meet several requirements, similar to those you met during your initial application. These include:
1. Relationship Requirements
You must still be in a genuine and subsisting relationship with your spouse or partner, who must be a British citizen or settled in the UK. You’ll need to provide evidence that your relationship is continuing, such as joint financial documents, proof of cohabitation, and photos or communications showing your ongoing commitment to each other.
2. Financial Requirements
You and your partner must meet the financial requirement, which typically means demonstrating an income of at least £18,600 per year. This threshold increases if you have children who are also applying with you. Income can be from employment, self-employment, savings, or other sources like pensions or investments. If you do not meet this income threshold, you may need to provide evidence of substantial savings to meet the requirements.
3. English Language Requirement
You must continue to meet the English language requirement. For the extension, you’ll need to pass an approved English language test at level A2 or higher, or provide proof that you meet one of the exemptions (e.g., you’re a national of an English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English).
4. Accommodation Requirement
You will need to show that you and your spouse or partner have adequate accommodation in the UK. This means proving that your home is not overcrowded and that you have enough space to live comfortably.
How to Apply for a Spouse Visa Extension
The application process for extend spouse visa uk can be done online. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
1. Prepare Your Documents
Gather the necessary documents, including:
- Your current passport and spouse visa
- Proof of your ongoing relationship (e.g., joint bills, bank statements, lease agreements, photos)
- Evidence of your finances (e.g., pay slips, bank statements, tax returns)
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., tenancy agreement, mortgage statements)
- English language test certificate (if required)
Ensure all your documents are up to date and meet the UK Home Office's standards.
2. Complete the Online Application
Visit the UK government’s website to begin your spouse visa extension application. You’ll need to fill in the application form, upload your supporting documents, and pay the application fee.
3. Pay the Fees
The current fee for extending a spouse visa is £1,048, plus an additional £19.20 for biometric information (fingerprints and photo). In addition, you’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year, per applicant. This surcharge gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
4. Biometric Appointment
After submitting your application, you’ll be asked to attend a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center. At this appointment, your fingerprints and photo will be taken.
5. Wait for a Decision
Once your biometric information has been submitted, you’ll need to wait for a decision on your application. Standard processing times for a spouse visa extension are around 8 weeks. If you need a faster decision, you can opt for a priority service, which typically costs more but reduces the processing time to 5 working days.
What Happens After You Get Your Spouse Visa Extension?
Once your spouse visa extension is approved, you’ll be granted an additional 30 months of leave to remain in the UK. During this period, you can continue to live, work, and study in the UK, as well as travel in and out of the country.
Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After holding a spouse visa for a total of 5 years (initial visa plus extension), you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This will grant you permanent residency in the UK, meaning you can live in the country without time restrictions. ILR is also the last step before you can apply for British citizenship if that’s your ultimate goal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When applying for a spouse visa extension, it's important to avoid common errors that can delay or complicate your application:
- Missing Documents: Ensure you submit all required documents and that they are clear and up to date.
- Applying Late: Make sure you apply before your current visa expires. Late applications can lead to complications with your immigration status.
- Incorrect Financial Evidence: Make sure that your financial documents clearly show that you meet the income threshold and are properly formatted according to Home Office guidelines.
Conclusion
Extending your UK spouse visa is a crucial step for those wishing to continue their life in the UK with their partner. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the proper application process, you can successfully secure another 2.5 years of leave to remain. Be sure to apply on time, gather all necessary documents, and seek professional advice if you have any concerns. With careful preparation, you can smoothly navigate the spouse visa extension process and continue building your life in the UK.
