This comprehensive guide covers all UK spouse visa extension requirements for 2026, including how to extend your spouse visa after 2.5 years, the FLR(M) application process, required documents checklist, fees, and English language requirements. Whether you're approaching your first extension or renewing your spouse visa for the second time before applying for ILR, this guide explains everything you need for a successful application.
Spouse Visa Extension Requirements UK: Overview 2026
The UK spouse visa extension requirements apply when you need to renew your initial 2.5-year spouse visa. Most applicants extend twice (at 2.5 years and 5 years) before becoming eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). The extension is applied for using the FLR(M) form and must meet the same core requirements as the initial UK spouse visa application.
What Are the UK Spouse Visa Extension Requirements?
To extend your UK spouse visa, you must demonstrate a genuine and subsisting relationship with your UK partner, meet the £29,000 financial requirement, pass an English language test at A2 level or above, have adequate accommodation, and not fall under general grounds for refusal. You apply using the FLR(M) form before your current visa expires.
The spouse visa extension requirements are similar to the initial application, but you'll need to provide updated evidence showing your relationship has continued and you still meet all eligibility criteria:
How to Extend Spouse Visa After 2.5 Years
To extend your spouse visa after 2.5 years, apply online using the FLR(M) form before your current visa expires. You'll need to pay the £1,048 application fee plus Immigration Health Surcharge, attend a biometrics appointment, and provide updated evidence of your relationship, finances, and accommodation. Apply at least 28 days before your visa expires.
When to Apply for Spouse Visa Extension
Timing is crucial for your spouse visa extension. Here's what you need to know:
- Recommended: Apply 28 days before your visa expiry date
- Earliest: You can apply earlier if needed, but the new visa starts from the decision date
- Latest: Must apply before your current visa expires to maintain legal status
- Section 3C leave: If you apply in time, your leave continues until a decision is made
The 5-Year vs 10-Year Route
Most spouse visa holders follow the 5-year route to settlement. However, some applicants are on the 10-year route due to exceptional circumstances:
Spouse Visa Extension Documents Checklist
For your spouse visa extension, you need your current BRP, valid passports, marriage certificate, 6 months of bank statements showing £29,000+ income, employer letter and payslips, A2 English test certificate, proof of cohabitation (utility bills, council tax), and accommodation evidence. All documents should be dated within 28 days of application.
- Identity: Valid passports (both partners), current BRP
- Relationship: Marriage/civil partnership certificate
- Cohabitation: Joint bank statements, utility bills, council tax
- Financial: 6 months payslips, employer letter, bank statements
- English: A2 SELT certificate or approved exemption
- Accommodation: Tenancy agreement or property ownership proof
- Photos: Recent photos together (recommended but not mandatory)
For a comprehensive list of all required documents, see our spouse visa document checklist. For financial evidence requirements, see our spouse visa financial requirements guide.
Spouse Visa Extension Application Process & Fees
The spouse visa extension is applied for using the FLR(M) form (Further Leave to Remain as a partner). The process is completed entirely online:
UK Spouse Visa Extension Fees 2026
For detailed fee information, see our Home Office fees guide and Immigration Health Surcharge guide.
Processing Time for Spouse Visa Extension
Standard processing for spouse visa extension takes approximately 8 weeks from your biometrics appointment. Priority service aims for 5 working days, and Super Priority for next working day decisions. Processing may take longer for complex cases or if additional checks are required.
For current processing times, see our UK visa extension processing time guide.
English Language Requirements for Spouse Visa Extension
For spouse visa extension, you need to pass an approved English language test (SELT) at CEFR level A2 in speaking and listening. This is one level higher than the A1 required for the initial visa. When you apply for ILR, you'll need B1 level. Exemptions apply for nationals of majority English-speaking countries, those over 65, and certain medical conditions.
The English requirement progresses as you move through the spouse visa route:
For detailed information on approved tests and exemptions, see our spouse visa English requirements guide.
- Apply using FLR(M) form before your current visa expires
- Meet the £29,000 financial requirement (or £88,500 savings)
- Pass English test at A2 level for extension (B1 for ILR)
- Total cost approximately £3,635+ including IHS
- Standard processing takes 8 weeks
After your second extension, you'll be eligible to apply for settlement (ILR) through the spouse visa route. This requires passing the Life in the UK test and English at B1 level. For official guidance, see gov.uk spouse visa extension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the UK spouse visa extension requirements?
The UK spouse visa extension requirements include: a genuine and subsisting relationship with your UK partner, meeting the £29,000 financial requirement (or £88,500 savings), passing an A2 English language test, having adequate accommodation, and not falling under general grounds for refusal. You must apply using the FLR(M) form before your current visa expires.
How do I extend my spouse visa after 2.5 years?
To extend your spouse visa after 2.5 years, apply online using the FLR(M) form at least 28 days before your current visa expires. Pay the £1,048 application fee plus Immigration Health Surcharge (£2,587.50 for 2.5 years), book a biometrics appointment at a UKVCAS centre, and submit your supporting documents including proof of relationship, finances, and English language.
When should I apply for spouse visa extension?
Apply for your spouse visa extension at least 28 days before your current visa expires. You can apply earlier if needed. The critical rule is to apply before your visa expiry date—if you apply in time, Section 3C leave allows you to continue living and working in the UK while your application is pending.
What documents do I need for spouse visa extension?
For spouse visa extension, you need: current BRP and valid passports, marriage/civil partnership certificate, 6 months of bank statements showing salary deposits, employer letter and payslips, A2 English test certificate, proof of cohabitation (utility bills, council tax), and accommodation evidence. All financial documents should be dated within 28 days of application.
How much does spouse visa extension cost?
The spouse visa extension costs £1,048 for the FLR(M) application fee, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 per year (£2,587.50 for 2.5 years). Total minimum cost is approximately £3,635 per adult. Optional Priority service adds £500, and Super Priority adds £1,000.
Do I need an English test for spouse visa extension?
Yes, you need to pass an approved SELT test at A2 level in speaking and listening for spouse visa extension. This is one level higher than the A1 required for the initial visa. Exemptions apply for nationals of majority English-speaking countries, applicants over 65, and those with certain medical conditions.
Can I work while my spouse visa extension is being processed?
Yes, you can continue working while your spouse visa extension is being processed, provided you applied before your current visa expired. Under Section 3C leave, you maintain the same immigration conditions (including work rights) until a decision is made. Do not travel outside the UK while your application is pending, as this may affect your case.
How long does spouse visa extension processing take?
Standard spouse visa extension processing takes approximately 8 weeks from your biometrics appointment. Priority service (£500 extra) aims for a decision within 5 working days. Super Priority service (£1,000 extra) aims for a decision by the end of the next working day. Complex cases may take longer.