After initially being granted a 2.5-year spouse visa to live in the UK with your partner, you may wish to extend your stay, and for that, you have to apply for a spouse visa extension application. The following provides guidance on the extension process, including processing time, requirements, and fees.
Spouse Visa Extension: UK Processing Time
Typically, once you have submitted your application for a spouse visa extension, you can expect:
1. Standard Service: A decision to be made within eight weeks of your application date.
2. Priority Service: For an additional fee, you can use the priority service, which aims to make a decision on your application within five working days of your biometric information being taken.
3. Super Priority Service: At a higher fee, the super-priority service aims to make a decision on your application by the end of the next working day after your biometric information has been taken.
It’s worth noting that these times are just guidelines. Complex cases may take longer, especially if there are complications or further evidence or documents are need.
Spouse Visa Extension Requirements
To successfully extend your spouse visa, you will need to satisfy the following requirements:
1 Relationship Requirements: You and your spouse should still be married and intend to live together permanently in the UK. Evidence of cohabitation and the genuine nature of the relationship will be required.
2. Financial Requirement: You must meet a minimum income threshold. At the time of my last update this year, this was £18,600 per annum, but this figure may be higher if you have children.
3. English Language Requirement: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to prove your knowledge of the English language, usually at an A2 level, for a first extension after 2.5 years.
4. Adequate Accommodation: You must have suitable accommodation for yourself, your partner, and any dependents.
5. Good Character: You should not have breached any immigration laws while in the UK.
Always refer to the official UK government website for the most up-to-date requirements.
Spouse Visa Extension After 2.5 Years UK Fees
The fees for the spouse visa extension are subject to change, so always refer to the official UK government website for the most accurate information. As of my last update in this year, the fees were:
1. Standard Spouse Visa Extension: £1,033
2. Priority Service: An additional £500 on top of the standard fee.
3. Super Priority Service: An additional £800 on top of the standard fee.
There are also additional fees for the Immigration Health Surcharge and biometric enrolment.
In conclusion, extending a spouse visa in the UK is a structured process that requires careful attention to detail. It’s always a good idea to seek guidance from an immigration expert or solicitor, particularly if you have unique or complex circumstances.
KQ Solicitors Spouse Visa Extension Checklist:
The process and requirements might change over time, so it’s crucial to refer to the official website of the UK Home Office or consult a KQ Solicitors immigration team for the most recent and specific guidance. You can contact us at info@kqsolicitors.com and book your first 15 Minutes free telephonic appointment slot.
However, based on the information available up to September 2021, here is a general checklist for extending your spouse visa:
- Proof of Relationship:
- Marriage certificate or civil partnership registration document.
- Any other proof demonstrating a genuine and subsisting relationship.
- Financial Requirement:
- Evidence can include payslips, bank statements, P60, employment letters, etc.
- Proof of Suitable Accommodation: This could be in the form of:
- Tenancy agreement or mortgage statement.
- Letters from family/friends if you’re staying with them.
- Utility bills, council tax statements, etc.
- Photographs: Typically, two passport-sized photographs of each applicant are needed.
- Current Passport and BRP: Your current passport and any old ones showing your travel and visa history. Also, provide your current Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) if you have one.
- Absences from the UK: Detail any periods of time you’ve spent outside of the UK during your spouse’s visa.
- Criminal Convictions and Refusals: If you have any criminal convictions or spouse visa extension after 2.5 years of refusals, these will need to be disclosed. Furthermore, these details must be mentioned in the cover letter.
- Any Other Supporting Documents: Depending on your situation, you might need additional documents like KQ Solicitors Free of Charge Drafted Cover Letter. For instance, if you’re relying on savings instead of income to meet the financial requirement, you’ll need to provide evidence of these savings with proper representation.
Common Spouse Visa Extension Refusal Reasons:
While the reasons for refusal can vary based on the country’s specific requirements, the following are some common reasons:
a. Insufficient Financial Support:
The sponsoring spouse may need to prove they can financially support the applicant. Failure to meet the required income threshold or to provide adequate proof of finances can lead to refusal.
b. Lack of Genuine Relationship Evidence:
Authorities may refuse an extension if they are not convinced of the genuineness of the relationship. This could be due to inconsistencies in the couple’s story, lack of shared responsibilities, or inadequate evidence of cohabitation.
c. Insufficient Language Knowledge:
In some countries, the applicant might need to prove proficiency in the national language to a certain level. Failure to do so can result in refusal.
d. Criminality or Deception:
If the applicant or their sponsor has a significant criminal record or evidence of deception in the application, it can lead to a refusal.
e. Failure to Meet Immigration Health Requirements:
If the applicant has a health condition considered a public health risk or might place a significant demand on the country’s healthcare system, it could be a ground for refusal.
f. Incomplete Application:
Not providing all the required documentation or filling out forms incorrectly can lead to a refusal. Ensuring all forms are accurately completed and all necessary evidence is provided is crucial.
g. Breaching Visa Conditions:
If the applicant breached the conditions of their initial spouse visa (e.g., unauthorized work or overstay), the extension could be refused.
h. Previous Immigration Violations:
Past issues or violations related to immigration, such as overstaying a previous visa or providing false information, can be grounds for refusal.
i. Failure to Attend Interviews or Biometrics:
If the applicant doesn’t attend scheduled interviews or biometric appointments without a valid reason, it could lead to refusal.
j. Changes in Circumstances:
If circumstances have changed significantly since the original visa was granted and those changes affect eligibility for the extension, it could result in refusal.
If someone receives a refusal for their spouse visa extension, it might be possible to appeal or submit a new application, depending on the country’s regulations. It’s often recommended to seek advice from an immigration lawyer or consultant to understand the best action.
