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The UK spouse visa allows foreign spouses of British citizens or individuals with settled status to live and work in the UK. After the initial period of 2.5 years (30 months), if you wish to continue living in the UK, you’ll need to apply for a spouse visa extension. This extension is a crucial step toward permanent residency, as it eventually leads to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after completing five years in the UK.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the spouse visa extension process, eligibility requirements, and the fees involved in 2025.

What Is a Spouse Visa Extension?

A spouse visa extension is a renewal of your current visa that allows you to stay in the UK for an additional 2.5 years. After this period, you can either apply for another extension or, if you’ve met the eligibility requirements, apply for ILR.

If your spouse visa is about to expire and you intend to stay in the UK, you must submit your extension application before your current visa expires. Failing to apply in time could lead to legal issues, including the risk of deportation.

Eligibility Criteria for Spouse Visa Extension

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

1. Genuine Relationship

You need to prove that your relationship with your British spouse or partner is still genuine and subsisting. You may need to provide:

• Marriage certificate or civil partnership document.
• Evidence of living together, such as joint bills or tenancy agreements.
• Photographs of time spent together as a couple.

2. Financial Requirement

You and your partner must continue to meet the financial requirement, which typically means a minimum combined income of £18,600 per year. If you have dependent children, the threshold increases by:

• £3,800 for your first child.
• £2,400 for each additional child.

The financial requirement can be met through:

• Employment income.
• Savings (if you have at least £16,000 in savings).
• Non-employment income (such as rental income or pensions).

3. English Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate a knowledge of English, usually by passing an approved English language test at the A2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). You may be exempt if you are from a majority English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English.

4. Accommodation Requirement

You must show that you have adequate accommodation for yourself, your partner, and any dependents, without relying on public funds.

Documents Required for the Extension

The application process involves submitting several documents to prove your eligibility. Commonly required documents include:

• Current passport or other valid travel document.
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, joint bills, photos, etc.).
• Evidence of meeting the financial requirement (payslips, bank statements, tax returns).
• Proof of accommodation (tenancy agreement or mortgage statement).
• A valid English language test certificate (unless exempt).

How to Apply for a Spouse Visa Extension

You can apply for a spouse visa extension online through the UK government’s visa application portal. Once your application is submitted, you’ll need to provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) center. The application process usually involves the following steps:

1. Complete the online application form on the UK government website.
2. Upload supporting documents (or take them to your biometric appointment).
3. Pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
4. Attend a biometrics appointment for your photograph and fingerprints.
5. Wait for a decision from the Home Office.

Spouse Visa Extension Fees 2025

The cost of applying for a spouse visa extension involves several components:

1. Application Fee

As of 2025, the standard application fee for a spouse visa extension is £1,583.

2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

You’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge when applying. The IHS is currently £624 per year, so for a 2.5-year visa extension, you’ll need to pay £1,560 upfront.

3. Biometric Fee

The biometric enrollment fee is typically £19.20. This covers the cost of collecting your fingerprints and photograph.

4. Optional Priority Service Fee

If you need a faster decision, you can opt for the priority service, which costs an additional £800. This service usually speeds up the decision process to within 5 working days.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once your application is submitted, the Home Office will process your application, and you will receive a decision within 8 weeks for standard processing or 5 working days if you chose the priority service. During this time, you must ensure that you continue to meet all the visa conditions.

If your application is approved, you’ll be granted a further 2.5 years to remain in the UK. After this period, you can either apply for ILR or another extension if needed.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Failing to Meet the Financial Requirement

Ensure that you meet the financial threshold well in advance of your application. If you don’t meet the financial requirement, your application will likely be refused. Consider alternative ways to meet the income requirement, such as using savings.

2. Incomplete Documentation

Providing all required documents is crucial. Double-check your application to ensure you haven’t missed any important documents. If you’re unsure, seek legal advice or consult an immigration expert to avoid errors.

3. Applying Too Late

It’s essential to apply before your current visa expires. Start preparing your application several months before the expiry date to allow enough time for gathering documents and addressing any potential issues.

Conclusion

Applying for a spouse visa extension after 2.5 years is a vital step for those who wish to continue living with their partner in the UK. By understanding the eligibility requirements, preparing the necessary documentation, and staying aware of the fees involved, you can ensure that your application process goes smoothly. The path toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) starts with securing your extension, and careful planning will increase your chances of a successful outcome.