For couples living in the UK on a spouse visa, reaching the 2.5-year mark means it’s time to apply for a visa extension. This step, known as Further Leave to Remain (FLR), is crucial for those who want to continue living with their British or settled partner in the UK. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the spouse visa extension process, including the eligibility criteria, necessary documents, and the spouse visa extension after 2.5 years.

What is the UK Spouse Visa Extension?

The UK spouse visa allows foreign nationals married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status to live in the UK. After the initial 2.5-year period, visa holders must apply for an extension if they wish to stay longer. The spouse visa extension grants another 30 months of residency, bringing you closer to the 5-year requirement for applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which leads to permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria for Spouse Visa Extension After 2.5 Years

To apply for a spouse visa extension, you must meet several key requirements set by the Home Office:

1. Genuine Relationship Requirement:

You must still be in a genuine, subsisting relationship with your partner, whether they are a British citizen, hold indefinite leave to remain, or have settled status in the UK.

You and your partner must continue living together in the UK.

2. Financial Requirement:

You and your partner must meet the minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year. This income requirement increases by £3,800 for the first dependent child and £2,400 for each additional child.

Income can be proven through employment, self-employment, or savings, and both partners’ income can be combined to meet the requirement.

3. English Language Requirement:

You need to demonstrate your proficiency in English. If you already met this requirement during your initial spouse visa application, you may need to provide further proof, such as passing an A2 English test.

4. Proof of Continuous Residence:

You must show that you have lived continuously in the UK on your spouse visa for the past 2.5 years.

5. Adequate Accommodation:

You must prove that you and your partner have adequate accommodation in the UK, meaning there is no overcrowding and that the living conditions meet UK housing standards.

Spouse Visa Extension Fees for 2024

When applying for a spouse visa extension, there are several costs to be aware of. The UK government has set fees for 2024 as follows:

1. Home Office Application Fee:

The standard application fee for a spouse visa extension in 2024 is £1,048. This fee must be paid when you submit your application to the Home Office.

2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):

In addition to the application fee, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is £624 per year. For the 2.5-year extension, this amounts to £1,560, paid upfront.

3. Biometric Enrollment Fee:

The cost for submitting your biometric information (fingerprints and photographs) is £19.20, required during the application process.

4. Optional Priority or Premium Processing:

If you need a faster decision, you can opt for priority processing, which costs an additional £500. This service guarantees a decision within five working days.

For even faster processing, the super-priority service costs £800, providing a decision within one working day.

Documents Required for the Spouse Visa Extension

When applying for a spouse visa extension after 2.5 years fees 2024, you will need to provide supporting documents that prove your eligibility. These include:

A valid passport or travel document

Proof of your relationship, such as a marriage or civil partnership certificate, joint bills, or letters addressed to both you and your partner

Evidence of financial stability, such as payslips, bank statements, or a letter from your employer

Proof of adequate accommodation, such as a tenancy agreement or mortgage statement

Evidence of meeting the English language requirement (such as passing an A2 English test)

Proof of cohabitation, such as letters, bills, or other correspondence showing that you and your partner have lived together for the past 2.5 years

Spouse Visa Extension Process: Step-by-Step

The application process for extending your spouse visa involves several steps, all of which should be completed before your current visa expires:

1. Submit Your Application:

The application for a spouse visa extension must be submitted online using the FLR (M) form. Make sure all the information is accurate and that you upload all necessary supporting documents.

2. Pay the Fees:

After completing your application, you will need to pay the application fee, Immigration Health Surcharge, and biometric enrollment fee.

3. Biometric Appointment:

Once your application is submitted, you will be asked to book a biometric appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center. At this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken as part of the application process.

4. Wait for a Decision:

The processing time for standard applications can take up to eight weeks. If you’ve opted for priority or super-priority service, your decision will come much sooner.

5. Receive Your Decision:

If your application is approved, you will receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) confirming your extension and granting you another 2.5 years of residency in the UK.

What Happens After Your Spouse Visa Extension?

Once your spouse visa extension is granted, you will be allowed to remain in the UK for another 30 months. It’s important to continue meeting the conditions of your visa, such as maintaining your relationship, staying financially stable, and adhering to the terms of your visa.

After completing five years (two periods of 2.5 years) on a spouse visa, you will be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows you to live in the UK without time restrictions and eventually apply for British citizenship.

Conclusion

Extending your UK spouse visa after 2.5 years is an essential step to continue your life with your partner in the UK. By meeting the eligibility criteria, providing the necessary documentation, and paying the appropriate fees, you can ensure a smooth application process. Make sure to apply before your current visa expires and prepare well to avoid any delays. With proper preparation, securing your spouse visa extension in 2024 will be a straightforward process, allowing you to move closer to permanent residency in the UK.