1. Spouse Visa Extension After 2.5 Years in the UK
If you’re in the UK on a spouse visa, you’ll need to apply for an extension after 2.5 years (30 months) to continue your stay. This extension is essential to maintain legal residency and is a step toward eventually achieving Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
The spouse visa extension allows you to remain in the UK for an additional 2.5 years before applying for ILR, assuming all requirements are met.
2. Eligibility Criteria for Spouse Visa Extension
To qualify for the extension, applicants must continue to meet the initial requirements set for a spouse visa and prove that their relationship and financial circumstances remain stable.
- Proof of Relationship: Demonstrating that your marriage or civil partnership is genuine and ongoing.
- Financial Requirement: Meeting the financial threshold, which may include combined earnings of £18,600 per year (higher if there are dependents).
- Residency Requirement: Showing that both partners live together in the UK and intend to continue living together.
- English Language Requirement: Passing an approved English language test if required.
3. Financial Requirement for Spouse Visa Extension
To qualify, you and your spouse must meet a minimum annual income threshold of £18,600. If you have children, this threshold increases:
- £18,600 for the applicant and sponsor
- An additional £3,800 for the first child
- An additional £2,400 for each additional child
Financial proof may include pay slips, bank statements, self-employment records, or proof of cash savings.
4. Documentation Required for Spouse Visa Extension
Applicants must provide the following documents when applying for the extension:
- Current Passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate
- Proof of Cohabitation: Joint bills, rental agreements, or official correspondence over the last 2.5 years to prove continuous living arrangements.
- Financial Documents: Bank statements, pay slips, tax documents, or savings account details to prove income.
- English Language Test Results: From an approved test provider if needed (unless previously submitted and still valid).
- Two Passport Photos: Meeting UKVI standards.
5. English Language Requirement
If this is your first extension, you may need to pass an A2 level English test (for speaking and listening) from an approved test provider unless you’re from an English-speaking country or have previously demonstrated proficiency.
6. How to Apply for the Spouse Visa Extension
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the FLR (M) form on the UK government website. The application requires personal, financial, and residency details.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
The current fee for a spouse visa extension is £1,033 (subject to updates). Additionally, applicants need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is approximately £624 per year.
Step 3: Submit Biometrics
Book an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center for your biometric data (fingerprints and photo). You can submit supporting documents online or at this appointment.
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
Ensure all necessary documents are submitted, either by uploading online or providing originals at your UKVCAS appointment.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Visa processing times vary, but most applicants receive a decision within 8 weeks for standard applications. Priority processing is available for an additional fee, which typically shortens the wait to 5 working days.
7. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Payment
The IHS fee must be paid as part of your spouse visa extension application. For a 2.5-year visa, this will amount to approximately £1,560. This payment grants you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
8. Proof of Relationship and Cohabitation for Spouse Visa Extension
To show that your relationship is ongoing, you’ll need to provide evidence of shared living arrangements. Acceptable documents may include:
- Joint Bank Statements
- Tenancy or Mortgage Agreements
- Utility Bills and Council Tax Statements
- Letters Addressed to Both Partners over the past 2.5 years
Providing regular and consistent documentation strengthens your application.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is a spouse visa extension valid for?
A spouse visa extension is granted for an additional 2.5 years, allowing you to stay until you’re eligible for ILR. - When should I apply for my spouse visa extension?
You should apply within 28 days before your current visa expires. - What happens if I don’t meet the financial requirement?
Failing to meet the financial requirement may result in refusal. It’s essential to provide all possible documentation to show combined income or savings. - Do I need to pass another English language test?
If your previous test is no longer valid or didn’t meet the required level, you may need to take an A2 level test from an approved provider. - Can I work in the UK on a spouse visa extension?
Yes, a spouse visa extension allows full employment rights. - Can my children apply with me?
Yes, dependents can apply with you, but the financial threshold will increase based on the number of children.
10. Conclusion
The spouse visa extension after 2.5 years allows you to continue your life in the UK while working toward permanent residency. Ensuring all financial, residency, and language requirements are met will help you secure a successful extension. Careful preparation and timely application submission will provide peace of mind as you take the next step toward Indefinite Leave to Remain.