A UK Spouse Visa, also known as a Marriage Visa or Partner Visa, is a type of visa that allows a non-EEA national to join their British or settled partner in the UK. It is designed for individuals who are married to or in a civil partnership with a UK citizen or someone with settled status in the UK.
If you are currently on a UK Spouse Visa and wish to extend your stay to continue living with your British or settled partner, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the extension process.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a UK Spouse Visa extension, you must meet the following criteria:
- Valid Spouse Visa: You must currently hold a valid UK Spouse Visa, which is typically granted for 30 months.
- Ongoing Relationship: You need to demonstrate that your relationship with your partner is still genuine and subsisting, akin to a marriage or civil partnership.
- Financial Requirement: You must meet the financial threshold, which includes demonstrating that you and your partner have a combined income above the minimum income requirement. Alternative sources of income and cash savings can also be considered to meet the financial requirement.
- Accommodation Requirement: You must have suitable and adequate accommodation available for you and your partner without recourse to public funds.
Application Process
The application process for a UK Spouse Visa extension typically involves the following steps:
- Gathering Required Documents: Collect the necessary documents to support your application, including proof of ongoing relationship, financial documents, accommodation details, and any other supporting evidence required.
- Completing the Application Form: Fill out the online application form, providing accurate and up-to-date information. Double-check the form before submission to avoid errors or omissions.
- Biometric Appointment: Schedule and attend a biometric appointment at a designated application centre. During this appointment, your fingerprints and photographs will be taken.
- Submitting Supporting Documents: Upload or mail your supporting documents to the specified visa application centre. Ensure that you include all required documentation and organize them in a clear and logical manner.
- Paying the Application Fee: Pay the relevant application fee, which is subject to change and can be found on the official UK government website.
- Attending Interviews or Providing Additional Information: In some cases, you may be called for an interview or requested to provide additional information or clarification. Cooperate fully and provide the requested information promptly.
- Decision and Visa Grant: Wait for a decision on your application. Once approved, you will be granted an extension of your UK Spouse Visa for an additional 30 months.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
After residing in the UK on a Spouse Visa for a total of five years, you may become eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settlement or permanent residency. ILR allows you to stay in the UK indefinitely, without any time restrictions on your stay.
