What is a Spouse Visa Extension after 2.5 years?
Is your spouse visa expiring after 2.5 years? Has the application for your spouse’s visa extension been refused? Our spouse visa immigration solicitors can deal with all types of spouse visa applications including refusals. Call us now at 01614644140 to get the professional and legal help you need to extend your spouse’s visa for another two years.
What is a Spouse Visa Extension after 2.5 years?
A Spouse Visa extension after 2.5 years allows you to continue living, working, or studying in the UK legally, without any issues. This extension is necessary to ensure that your partner can remain in the UK with their family, and it must be renewed every 2.5 years until you reach the 5-year mark. After five years of marriage and living in the UK, you can apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which gives you permanent residency.
What are the Requirements for a Spouse Visa Extension after 2.5 Years?
To apply for a Spouse Visa extension after the initial 2.5 years in the UK, the following steps and requirements must be met:
Eligibility Requirements:
- Relationship: You must still be in a genuine and subsisting relationship with your spouse or partner, who is a British citizen or has settled status in the UK.
- Financial Requirement: You and your partner must have a combined income of at least £18,600 per year. This threshold increases if you have dependent children.
- English Language: You need to pass an approved English language test at level A2, unless exempt.
- Accommodation: You must show that you have suitable accommodation for yourself, your partner, and any dependents.
- Good Character: You must not have breached any UK immigration laws or have a criminal record that could affect your application.
Documents Required for spouse visa extension
- Passport or travel document.
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate, correspondence between you and your partner).
- Evidence of cohabitation for the last 2.5 years (e.g., utility bills, tenancy agreements).
- Financial documents to prove you meet the income requirement (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
- English language certificate.
spouse visa extension process
- Online Application: You must complete the application form online through the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
- Biometrics: You will need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) at a visa application centre.
- Fee: Pay the visa extension fee, which includes the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
The financial (minimum income) requirement for a Spouse visa extension
To meet the income requirements of a UK Spouse visa extension application, you and your partner must have a combined income of at least £29,000 gross per year. You need to meet this income threshold requirement if you want to settle in the UK within 5 years.
Spouse / Partner visa minimum income requirement from 11 April 2024
From 11 April 2024, the minimum income requirement of a UK Spouse or Partner visa is increased from £18,600 to £29,000 gross per year. Contact our immigration solicitors on 01614644140 or complete our online enquiry form for your eligibility assessment.
super priority for spouse visa extension
The Super Priority Service for a Spouse Visa extension allows applicants to receive a faster decision on their application by paying £1000 extra. With this service, you can get a decision by the end of the next working day after providing your biometrics at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application centre.
Spouse Visa Extension Decision Timeline
Timeline:
The application processing time can take up to 8 weeks, though priority services are available for faster decisions.
If your application is approved, you will be granted a further 2.5 years of leave to remain in the UK, bringing you closer to the 5-year mark, after which you may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR).
Frequently Asked Questions For Spouse Visa Extension
When should I apply for a Spouse Visa extension?
You should apply for an extension before your current visa expires. It is recommended to apply at least 28 days before the expiration date to avoid any issues, such as overstaying.
What are the financial requirements for a Spouse Visa extension?
Applicants will also usually need to show proof that they and their spouse or partner make at least £29,000 a year as of April 11, 2024. If you first applied for your visa before 11 April 2024, you will have to prove that you and your partner earn a combined income of at least £18,600 a year
What documents do I need for a Spouse Visa extension?
Proof of your identity such as your passport. Proof of your spouse’s UK status e.g. proof of indefinite leave to remain. Proof of your relationship, such as your marriage certificate and evidence of cohabiting for the period of UK residency, correspondence (e.g. utility bills, with both addressees)
Do I need to take an English test for a Spouse Visa extension?
Yes, if you do not come from an English-speaking country or do not have a degree taught in English, you must pass an approved English test. If you previously passed a test at CEFR A1, you now need to pass at A2 level for speaking and listening.
Can I use the Super Priority Service for faster processing?
Yes, the Super Priority Service is available for faster processing. It costs an additional £1000, and you will receive a decision within 24 hours after submitting your biometrics.
What happens if my spouse visa application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, you may be given the option to appeal or request an administrative review, depending on the reason for refusal. It’s important to ensure your application is complete and meets all requirements to avoid refusal.
Can I continue working in the UK during the extension process?
Yes, if you apply before your current visa expires, your rights to work, live, and study in the UK remain valid while your extension application is processed.
When can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
You can apply for ILR after living in the UK on a Spouse Visa for 5 years. This usually requires two successful 2.5-year extensions.
Why hire solicitors in manchester for your immigration matters?
Hiring solicitors in Manchester for immigration matters can offer several key benefits:
Local Expertise:
Manchester solicitors understand the specific needs and dynamics of the local community. They are familiar with regional issues and regulations, which can be advantageous when dealing with immigration authorities or attending local tribunals.
Accessibility:
Having a solicitor in Manchester makes it easier to attend face-to-face consultations, which can provide more personalized advice. Local solicitors may also offer flexible in-person appointments, making it convenient for residents in and around Manchester.
Understanding of UK Immigration Law:
UK immigration law can be complex, with frequent updates. Experienced Manchester solicitors stay up to date with these changes and can guide you through visa applications, settlement processes, citizenship, and more, ensuring that your application is compliant with the latest regulations.
Free Immigration Advice:
Some Manchester firms, like Deluxe Law Chambers, offer initial free immigration advice for 5 minutes via helpline, which can help you assess whether your case requires professional legal support without committing to a paid consultation right away.
Challenging Visa Refusals:
If your visa has been refused, Manchester solicitors can help you challenge the decision through administrative review or appeal, improving your chances of success.
Transparent and Affordable Services:
Many Manchester-based solicitors pride themselves on providing transparent and affordable pricing, allowing you to understand the costs involved without hidden fees. Deluxe Law Chambers, for example, starts fees for complex assessments at £35, offering high-quality services at reasonable prices.
Comprehensive Legal Support:
Solicitors in Manchester handle a wide range of immigration services, from visa applications to settlement and citizenship, covering all stages of your immigration journey with thorough and detailed legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
In summary, hiring solicitors in Manchester combines local accessibility with expert legal knowledge, transparent pricing, and the opportunity for personalized service, enhancing your chances of a successful immigration outcome.