Extension of Same-Sex Partner Visa

You can apply to extend your Same-Sex Partner visa for another 2.5 years under the 5-year route if you meet all the requirements of Appendix FM.

Call us on 0203 417 3700 for legal assistance with your Same-Sex Partner visa extension application. We’re here to help you in person, via the phone or online.

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What is the Same-Sex Partner visa?

The same-sex partner visa allows individuals in a genuine and subsisting relationship with a British citizen or settled person to live and work in the UK. This visa is designed for same-sex couples, and it provides a pathway toward permanent settlement (ILR) in the UK.

What is a Same-Sex Partner extension?

The Same-Sex Partner visa extension is for individuals currently residing in the UK under a Same-Sex Partner visa. If you wish to remain in the UK after your initial Same-Sex Partner visa expires, you can apply for a renewal or extension. This extension is valid for 2 years and 6 months. Once this period ends, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain, which can eventually lead to British citizenship.

The requirements for the extension are similar to the initial Same-Sex Partner visa. You must demonstrate that you are still in a genuine relationship with your same-sex partner and continue to meet all the requirements that applied to your initial visa application.

Remember to apply for the Same-Sex Partner visa extension before your current visa expires.

When do you need to apply for a Same-Sex Partner visa extension?

Usually, an initial Same-Sex Partner visa under the 5-year route grants permission to live in the UK for 2.5 years (30 months), after which you will be able to extend it for another 2.5 years.

Before your Same-Sex Partner visa expires, you must apply for an extension under the 5-year route to extend your stay in the UK for another 2.5 years.

You should apply for a Same-Sex Partner visa extension within 28 days of your current visa expiring. It's advisable to start gathering documents and completing the application well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

Not applying on time can cause problems with your immigration status. It might even lead to being removed from the UK.

Requirements for the extension of a Same-Sex Partner visa

To successfully obtain a Same-Sex Partner visa extension, you must continue to meet all the required eligibility criteria for the visa. This includes:

• You must hold a valid Same-Sex Partner visa under the 5-year route.
• You must still be in a subsisting and genuine relationship with your partner.
• You and your partner should intend to live together permanently in the UK.
• You must demonstrate that you have adequate accommodation for yourself and your partner.
• You must meet the income and financial requirements.
• You need to demonstrate English language proficiency at a minimum of A2 level.
• You must not have violated any laws or immigration rules.
• Complying with character and suitability conditions

You must meet all other requirements for a UK Same-Sex Partner visa extension application depending on your circumstances.

Feel free to ask a question to our expert immigration solicitor regarding your visa extension application under the 5-year route.

The financial (minimum income) requirement for same-sex partner visas

To prove that you can be adequately supported in the UK without relying on public funds, you must meet the financial requirements for a Same-Sex Partner visa.

From 11 April 2024, the minimum income requirement of a UK Same-Sex Partner visa is increased from £18,600 to £29,000 gross per year.

You must show that your same-sex partner, or both of you together (if you are in the UK with valid leave to remain), have a combined gross annual income of at least £29,000.

Income can come from employment, self-employment, savings, or certain benefits.

Same-Sex Partner visa English language requirement

unless exempt, as part of your Same-Sex Partner visa extension application, you must demonstrate to the Home Office that you meet the English language requirement.

You need to meet the A2 level of English proficiency for the extension. This is an increase from the A1 level required for the initial UK Same-Sex Partner visa application.

You can fulfil this requirement with a valid English language test or proof of a degree taught in English.

Accommodation requirements for the Same-Sex Partner visa extension

You must demonstrate that you have adequate accommodation for yourself and your partner.

You need to show that:

• Your home is big enough for both partners
• You legally have access to the property by owning it or renting it

Having good housing is crucial for a stable life in the UK.

For more info on immigration, call Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700.

Which documents are required for a Same-Sex Partner visa extension?

When applying for a Same-Sex Partner visa extension under the 5-year route, you'll need to provide the following documents:

• Your passport and your partner's passport.
• Letters or communications that demonstrate the ongoing relationship.
• Joint bank statements, utility bills, or tenancy agreements that confirm shared residency.
• Evidence that you meet the financial requirements.
• Evidence that you meet the English language requirement.
• Evidence of suitable living arrangements, such as a tenancy agreement.
• You may need to provide additional supporting documents depending on your circumstances.

You may need to provide additional supporting documents depending on your circumstances.

How can you extend a Same-Sex Partner visa?

To extend your UK Same-Sex Partner visa, you need to follow two steps. First, gather all the documents needed. These documents prove your relationship's truth and your financial well-being. After gathering everything, you can then apply online.

Gather all the supporting documents

Apply online and follow the instructions

How to apply for a Same-Sex Partner visa extension?

Once you have all your documents ready, you can apply online. Go to the UK Government website for the application portal. You must:

• Fill out the online application form on the UK Government website.
• Upload your supporting documents in an acceptable format.
• Pay the required fee using a debit or credit card.
• Schedule a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.
• Attend the appointment and complete identity verification.
• Wait for the processing of your application to begin after your biometrics are submitted.

Make sure all your information is correct, and your documents are in the right format. Wrong information or documents can lead to your application being refused. If you're unsure about anything, call Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 for help.

Same-Sex Partner visa extension processing time

The standard processing time for a Same-Sex Partner visa extension application under the 5-year route is typically 8 weeks after biometrics.

You can apply to renew or extend your UK Same-Sex Partner under the 5-year route by using the 'priority service' to get a faster decision within 5 working days.

How can Wembley Solicitors help with your visa extension application?

No matter where you live, our immigration solicitors provide legal advice and assistance with UK visa applications inside the UK and around the world.

Contact Wembley Solicitors for assistance

If you need help with your UK Same-Sex Partner visa extension under the 5-year route, call Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700.

Every case at Wembley Solicitors is different. We provide advice and support tailored to your needs. Our experts keep up with the latest rules.

We make sure you meet all the necessary requirements to maximise your chances of a successful Same-Sex Partner visa extension application.