Spouse Visa Extension Fees After 2.5 Years in 2024

The process of extending a spouse visa can be a vital step for individuals who wish to remain with their partner in the UK. For many, the 2.5-year spouse visa grant period represents the first stage of the journey to full settlement. After this period, individuals are required to apply for a visa extension to continue living in the UK with their spouse. However, navigating the complexities of visa extensions, including the associated fees, can be confusing. In this article, we will explore the spouse visa extension fees after 2.5 years in 2024, including what they cover, the requirements, and the additional costs that applicants should expect.

Understanding the Spouse Visa and Its Duration

The UK spouse visa, also known as the “family of a settled person visa,” is typically issued to individuals who are married to, or in a civil partnership with, someone who is either a British citizen or has settled status in the UK. The initial spouse visa is usually granted for 33 months (around 2.5 years). This allows the visa holder to live and work in the UK during this period. However, this visa is not indefinite, and after the 33-month period, the applicant must apply for an extension in order to continue living in the country.

The spouse visa extension serves as an essential step for those looking to achieve Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship, which are the next stages after holding a spouse visa for five years. This extension is typically granted for another 30 months, and once this period expires, the applicant may apply for ILR, provided that they meet all the necessary criteria.

Key Costs Associated with Spouse Visa Extension in 2024

When applying for a spouse visa extension in 2024, there are several mandatory costs to be aware of. These costs cover different aspects of the application process, such as the application fee, health surcharge, biometric fee, and other associated expenses.

1. Application Fee

The application fee for a spouse visa extension in 2024 is one of the most significant costs that applicants will face. As of 2024, the standard fee for applying for a spouse visa extension is:

• £1,048 if applying from within the UK (this includes applications for individuals who are applying for a further leave to remain).

This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of submission, even if the application is refused. It is important to note that this amount can change periodically, and applicants should always check the Home Office’s official website for the most up-to-date information.

2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is another essential fee that must be paid by applicants when applying for a spouse visa extension. The surcharge helps cover access to the National Health Service (NHS) while the individual is in the UK.

In 2024, the IHS fee for spouse visa extensions is as follows:

• £624 per year for each year of the visa.

As the spouse visa extension is typically granted for a further 30 months (around 2.5 years), applicants will need to pay £1,560 in IHS fees for the duration of their extension.

This fee is in addition to the application fee and must be paid at the same time as the visa extension application. Failure to pay the IHS fee will result in the application being refused.

3. Biometric Fee

Biometrics is a critical component of the UK visa application process, and it is required when applying for a spouse visa extension. The biometric fee covers the cost of taking fingerprints and a photograph, which are necessary for security checks.

In 2024, the biometric fee for a spouse visa extension is:

• £19.20 (this is subject to change, so it’s essential to check the latest guidance).

Applicants will be required to attend a biometric appointment at a designated location to complete this process, which may involve additional travel costs.

4. Additional Costs

While the major fees mentioned above are mandatory, applicants should be aware that there may be other additional costs that arise during the spouse visa extension process. Some of these potential costs include:

• Translations and Document Legalization: If any of your documents (e.g., marriage certificate, financial documents) are not in English, you will need to pay for professional translation services. This can add up depending on the number of documents you need to translate.
• Legal Advice and Representation: If you are uncertain about the application process or need assistance with complicated cases, you may choose to hire an immigration solicitor or legal representative. Fees for legal services can vary, but they typically range from a few hundred to a few thousand pounds depending on the level of service required.
• Travel Costs for Biometrics and Appointments: If your biometric appointment or any other necessary appointments are located far from your home, you may need to factor in the cost of travel, accommodation, or parking.

Key Requirements for Spouse Visa Extension

To be eligible for an extend spouse visa UK in 2024, applicants must meet certain requirements. These are typically related to the applicant’s relationship with their spouse, financial stability, and ability to support themselves without relying on public funds. Here are the key requirements:

1. Ongoing Relationship: You must still be married to, or in a civil partnership with, your UK-based spouse. You will need to provide evidence that your relationship is genuine and subsisting. This may include photographs, correspondence, joint bank statements, and other evidence of living together.
2. Financial Requirement: One of the most important eligibility criteria for a spouse visa extension is proving that you meet the minimum financial requirement. As of 2024, this is usually a minimum income of £18,600 per year. Alternatively, you can meet the financial requirement through savings or a combination of income and savings.
3. English Language Requirement: Applicants must prove their knowledge of the English language by either passing an English language test or having a degree taught in English.
4. Good Character: Applicants must demonstrate that they have not committed any serious criminal offenses and that they have not breached UK immigration laws.
5. Absence of Deportation Orders: If you have previously been subject to deportation or removal from the UK, this could affect your ability to apply for a spouse visa extension.

Conclusion

The process of applying for a spouse visa extension in 2024 involves several key fees and requirements. The total cost for a spouse visa extension will typically include the application fee, the Immigration Health Surcharge, and the biometric fee. Additionally, applicants should be prepared for potential additional costs, such as legal fees, translation services, and travel expenses.

Understanding these costs upfront is crucial for anyone seeking to extend their stay in the UK with their spouse. Moreover, meeting the requirements for the extension application is just as essential as paying the fees, and applicants should ensure that they have all necessary documentation in order.