Spouse Visa Extension After 2.5 Years
After initially obtaining a spouse visa under the 5-year route, individuals typically need to extend their spouse visa to continue living in the UK with their partner who is a British citizen or settled person in the UK.
Renewing your UK spouse visa is important to maintain your legal residency in the UK. Our immigration solicitors can provide you with all the information you need to know about the requirements, timeline, and documents checklist for your spouse visa extension.
To get legal help with your UK spouse visa extension application, call our spouse visa solicitors today at 0203 959 7755 or fill in the online contact form. Our expert solicitors are ready to offer you professional advice and assistance, ensuring a successful outcome for your spouse visa renewal.
Table of Contents
- What is a spouse visa extension after 2.5 years?
- Spouse visa extension requirements
- Financial requirements for a spouse visa extension after 2.5 years
- Accommodation requirements for a UK spouse visa extension
- English language requirement for spouse visa extension
- Spouse visa extension documents checklist
- What is the spouse visa extension application process?
- UK spouse visa extension processing time
- Visa application using super priority service
- How can our immigration solicitors help with your UK visa applications?
- How much does an immigration solicitor charge for a UK visa application?
- How to contact a spouse visa solicitor?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a spouse visa extension after 2.5 years?
If you have been living in the UK under a spouse visa for 2.5 years, you must extend your spouse visa before it expires to continue living in the UK.
Applying for a spouse visa extension after the initial 2.5-year period allows individuals to continue living in the UK for a further 30 months with their partner, maintaining their legal residency status and potentially leading to settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after completing a total of 5 years on the spouse visa.
Spouse visa extension requirements 2025
To extend or renew your UK spouse visa after completing an initial 2.5 years under a spouse visa (5-year route), you must meet certain eligibility requirements.
To qualify for a spouse visa extension after 2.5 years, you must:
- have a combined income of at least £29,000 gross per year.
- have lived together continuously in the UK.
- still be in the same eligible and genuine relationship with your spouse or partner who is a British citizen or settled person in the UK.
- not have breached any immigration laws while in the UK.
- have suitable accommodation.
- Meet the English language requirement.
It's essential to thoroughly understand and meet these requirements to enhance the success of your spouse visa extension application.
You must also meet all the other eligibility requirements depending on your circumstances. Please contact us for an initial assessment to determine your eligibility, and to discuss the options.
Financial requirements for a spouse visa extension after 2.5 years
To meet the financial requirements, you must demonstrate that you and your partner have a combined income or savings above a certain threshold. The exact amount varies depending on your circumstances, such as whether you have children or not.
To be eligible for a Partner / Spouse visa UK, you and your partner must meet the minimum income requirement, which is currently set at £29,000 gross per year. This minimum income requirement rose from £18,600 to £29,000 on 11 April 2024.
Accommodation requirements for a UK spouse visa extension
When applying for a UK spouse visa, it is important to meet the accommodation requirements set by the UK government. Having suitable accommodation is crucial to ensure the success of your visa application.
The UK government requires that the accommodation you provide for your spouse meets certain minimum standards. These standards are in place to ensure that the accommodation is safe, habitable, and suitable for the couple. Some of the key requirements are:
- The property must be free from any hazards or serious health and safety issues.
- There should be adequate living space for the couple to reside comfortably.
- The property must have a separate bedroom for the couple.
- Access to a toilet, bathroom, and kitchen facilities should be available.
- The accommodation should be located in an area that is safe and suitable for residency.
English language requirement for spouse visa extension
One of the key requirements for a UK spouse visa extension after 2.5 years is meeting the English language requirement. It is essential to demonstrate your proficiency in English, as this ensures effective communication and integration within the UK.
When applying for a UK spouse visa extension, you must prove that you can read, write, speak, and understand English to at least level A2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. Failing to do so can result in your application being refused.
Qualifications and Exemptions
If you already hold a degree or qualification that was taught or researched in English, you may be eligible for an exemption from the English language requirement. Accepted qualifications include those from UK universities or recognised educational institutions in most English-speaking countries.
Additionally, you do not need to prove your knowledge of English or take a test if you are over 65 or a citizen of a country where English is the main language.
Spouse visa extension documents checklist
When applying for a spouse visa extension in the UK, it is important to ensure that you have all the necessary documents to support your spouse visa extension application.
The Home Office requires specific evidence to assess your eligibility and verify the genuineness of your relationship. Missing or incomplete paperwork can result in delays or even a rejected application.
These documents include:
- Your valid passport or travel document
- Your marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Evidence of a genuine relationship
- Evidence of meeting the financial requirements
- Evidence of adequate accommodation
- English language proficiency test results
Remember, the document checklist provided above is not exhaustive, and additional documents may be required based on your personal circumstances. Properly preparing your documentation is key to the success of your application. Contact us today to get a comprehensive list of supporting documents.
What is the spouse visa extension application process?
Before you apply for a spouse visa extension, you need to assess your eligibility and gather all the necessary supporting documents.
To apply for a spouse visa extension after 2.5 years, you must complete form FLR(M) form and send it to the Home Office along with all the supporting documents.
When submitting your application, it's important to pay attention to the details, ensuring that all forms are completed accurately, paid the correct visa application fees and that you have included all required supporting documentation.
Securing a spouse visa extension can be a complex and stressful process. Engaging the services of experienced immigration solicitors can significantly simplify and streamline this journey.
At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, we have extensive knowledge and expertise in spouse visa extensions. Our team can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate the application process with confidence.
Contact us today at 0203 959 7755 for a consultation and let us help you with your spouse visa extension.
UK spouse visa extension processing time
Currently, the UK spouse visa extension application processing time is 6-8 weeks (on average) when applying from inside the UK using a standard service. However, you may be eligible to use priority service to get a faster decision.
All the applicants are advised to check the latest information about UK visa application processing time on the official UK government website.
Timeline for UK spouse visa extension
| Timeline | Description |
|---|---|
| Start Preparing for the Extension | It is recommended to start preparing for your UK spouse visa extension application at least three months before your current visa is due to expire. |
| Application Submission | It is advisable to apply for a spouse visa extension around 28 days before your current visa expires. |
| Expected Processing Time | On average, the spouse visa extension application processing time is around 6 to 8 weeks. |
Visa application using super priority service
If you require a decision on your visa application urgently, you may be eligible to use the "Super Priority Service" or the "Priority Service", which offers faster processing times for an additional fee. These services aim to provide a decision on your visa application within 24 hours or 5 working days, respectively.
To get a faster decision on your UK visa application, you'll need to pay £1,000 for the "Super Priority Service" or £500 for the "Priority Service" fee per applicant in addition to the visa application fee.
How can our immigration solicitors help with your UK visa applications?
Navigating the UK visa application process can be complex and stressful, especially if English is not your first language or if you are unfamiliar with UK immigration laws. Hiring an immigration solicitor provides peace of mind, knowing that you have professional support to guide you through every step of the process.
Here are some ways in which our team of highly experienced UK immigration solicitors can assist:
- Legal Expertise: Our immigration solicitors have in-depth knowledge of UK immigration laws, policies, and procedures. We can assess your eligibility for different types of visas, advise you on the most suitable visa option, and ensure that your application complies with all relevant legal requirements.
- Consultation and Advice: If you are uncertain about the visa type that best suits your needs or require guidance on the application process, we offer consultations to answer your questions.
- Application Preparation: Our immigration solicitors will fill in your UK visa application forms accurately and submit them.
- Supporting Documents: We will advise you on the required documents to be submitted in support of your visa application and ensure that they meet the specific requirements of the visa category you are applying for.
- Legal Representation: We can represent you in communications with the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department, embassy, or consulate handling your application. We can correspond with immigration authorities on your behalf, respond to requests for additional information, and address any concerns or queries raised during the processing of your application.
- Appeals and Administrative Reviews: If your visa application is refused, our immigration solicitors can help you explore options for appealing the decision or requesting an administrative review. We can prepare and submit appeal or review applications, gather additional evidence to support your case and represent you at appeal hearings or review proceedings.
If you have any questions or want assistance with your UK visa application, please call our expert immigration solicitors based in London at 0203 959 7755. Alternatively, fill in our online contact form, and one of our UK immigration experts will get back in touch with you soon!
How much does an immigration solicitor charge for a UK visa application?
At Moeen & Co. Solicitors, our immigration solicitors in London charge an affordable fixed fee for complete legal services for your UK visa application. The agreed fixed fee will depend on the type of visa application and the complexity of the matter. Learn more about our legal fees.
How to contact a spouse visa solicitor?
If you have questions or need help with your UK spouse visa extension application, you can contact our team of spouse visa solicitors in London by calling 0203 959 7755. Alternatively, you can fill in our online contact form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You can apply for a spouse visa extension 28 days before your current visa expires. It is always recommended to submit your spouse visa extension application well in advance to avoid any issues or disruptions to your stay in the UK.
It's usually granted for another 2.5 years (30 Months). After completing a total of 5 years in the UK on a spouse visa, individuals may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain).
Yes, dependents such as children can be included in the spouse visa extension application. Additional documentation may be required to demonstrate the relationship and dependency on the primary applicant.
If your spouse visa extension application is refused, it's advisable to seek advice from an experienced immigration solicitor to understand your options and address any issues with your application.
Hiring a spouse visa lawyer can significantly increase your chances of a successful application. They have expertise in navigating the complexities of UK immigration law, ensuring that your application is complete, accurate, and meets all eligibility requirements.
Contact Immigration Solicitors in London
If you need immigration advice or help with any type of UK visa application, British citizenship application or sponsorship licence application, contact our team of immigration solicitors in London on 0203 959 7755 or fill in our enquiry form to get reliable & confidential advice and help you need.
We're authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), so you know you're in safe hands.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Moeen & Co. Solicitors before making any decisions based on the information provided on this website.
