The Spouse Visa Extension allows you to continue living with your British or settled partner in the UK after your initial 30–33 month spouse visa expires. This is an essential step in the 5-year route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
When Do You Need a Spouse Visa Extension?
- If you were granted your spouse visa inside the UK, your visa will last 30 months.
- If you applied outside the UK, your visa will last 33 months.
- Before this period ends, you must apply for a 30-month extension to remain on the 5-year settlement route.

Who Qualifies?
- Children born in the UK
- If they have lived continuously in the UK for seven years and were born here, they are eligible to apply immediately for ILR via the Private Life route.
- Children born abroad, arrived as children
- If they have been continuously resident in the UK for 7 years, have permission based on Private Life, they can apply for settlement after 5 years on that permission. GOV.UK
Proving Continuous Residence
Evidence is crucial. Acceptable documentation includes:
- School attendance letters or reports,
- GP or medical records,
- Letters from religious institutions confirming long-term attendance.
Continuous residence is broken if:
- The child has absences exceeding 6 months at once,
- Total absences exceed 550 days,
- The child left with no reasonable expectation of return.GOV.UK
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Summary
Profile | Requirement | Route / Outcome |
Child born in UK (7 years of residence) | 7 years continuous residency & born in UK | Immediate ILR via Private Life Route |
Child born abroad (7 years) | 7 years continuous residency + Private Life permission | Settlement after 5 years on that permission |
Application Costs
- Application Fee: £3029
- Immigration Health Surcharge is not required to be paid
What are the eligibility requirements for a UK Fiancé(e) Visa?
- Intention to get married
- Proof of relationship
- Successful completion of the English language test
- Financial evidence demonstrating that the financial requirement is met
- Proof of adequate accommodation
How can ICONIQ Solicitors help with a Fiancé(e) Visa application?
Do I need to meet the financial requirement before applying?
What relationship evidence is accepted?
Can I work on a Fiancé(e) Visa?
How do I switch from Fiancé(e) to Spouse Visa in the UK?
References
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-private-life