UK Partner Visa Extension

If you're living in the UK with your British or settled partner, your stay is likely based on a UK partner visa. When your initial 2.5-year visa period is coming to an end, you'll need to apply for a UK partner visa extension to continue living together in the UK.

At Wembley Solicitors, we've helped many couples successfully extend their partner visas. Here, we will explain everything you need to know, from the eligibility requirements to the documents you'll need and the application process.

If your UK partner visa is about to expire, call Wembley Solicitors today on 0203 417 3700 or complete our enquiry form for expert help with your extension application.

Table of Contents

What is a UK Partner Visa Extension?

A UK Partner visa extension allows you to continue living in the UK with your British or settled partner for another 2.5 years after your initial visa expires.

Successfully obtaining this extension allows you to stay in the UK legally while completing the 5-year period required before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

To apply, you must submit the FLR(M) form online from within the UK and ensure your application is made before your current visa expires.

Before You Apply for a Partner Visa Extension

Before starting your partner visa extension application, it's important to make sure you meet all the basic requirements and timelines. Here are a few things to check:

1. Check your visa expiry date
2. Confirm your visa route
3. Include dependants

1. Check your visa expiry date

You must submit your visa extension application before your current UK partner visa expires. Missing this deadline can affect your immigration status in the UK.

2. Confirm your visa route

Most people are on the 5-year partner route, but double-check your Home Office decision letter if you're unsure.

3. Include dependants

If your partner or children are included in your visa, they'll also need to apply for a UK partner visa extension at the same time. Their visas won't automatically renew with yours.

When Should You Apply for a Partner Visa Extension?

You should apply for your UK partner visa extension up to 28 days before your current visa expires. It's important to submit your application before your existing permission to stay ends, as failing to do so could result in your visa lapsing and losing your right to work in the UK.

Applying late can cause serious issues with your immigration status, so it's always best to start preparing your documents and application well in advance.

UK Partner Visa Extension Requirements (Updated 2025)

When applying for an extension, you'll need to prove that your relationship remains genuine, your partner still holds an eligible immigration status, and that you continue to meet the financial, accommodation, and English language requirements.

Let's break down each requirement clearly so you know what's expected before submitting your FLR(M) form.

To be eligible to apply for a UK partner visa extension, you must:

• Hold a valid UK partner visa
• Apply before your current visa expires
• Have a genuine and subsisting relationship
• Meet the financial requirement (£18,600 - £29,000 depending on application date)
• Have suitable accommodation in the UK
• Meet the English language requirement (CEFR A2 level unless exempt)
• Not fall under the general refusal grounds
• Have complied with UK immigration laws
• Meet all other requirements, depending on your circumstances

Genuine and Subsisting Relationship Requirements

The Home Office must be satisfied that your relationship is genuine and subsisting. Evidence may include:

• Your marriage or civil partnership certificate
• Joint financial documents such as bills, tenancy agreements, or bank statements
• Photos of you together over time
• Correspondence addressed to both partners at the same address

Financial Requirements for a UK Partner Visa Extension

Since April 11, 2024, the minimum income threshold for new UK partner visa applications has increased to £29,000 per year. However, if your initial partner visa was granted before that date, the previous threshold of £18,600 still applies to your extension application.

You can meet this requirement using:

• Employment income (yours, your partner's, or both)
• Self-employment earnings
• Pension income
• Cash savings (over a certain threshold)

Supporting documents might include payslips, bank statements, P60s, or an employer's letter confirming your income and employment details. Make sure your evidence covers at least the six months leading up to your application.

English Language Requirements for a UK Partner Visa Extension

To qualify for a partner visa extension, you must meet the A2 level English requirement in speaking and listening.

You can prove this by:

• Passing an approved English language test at A2 level (or higher), or
• Holding a degree taught in English, or
• Having a passport from a majority English-speaking country.

If your initial visa was granted based on an A1 test, you'll need to take and pass an A2 test for your extension. Those who have already met the A2 or higher requirement previously can usually reuse their existing certificate if it's still valid.

Adequate Accommodation Requirements for a UK Partner Visa Extension

You'll need to show that you and your partner have suitable accommodation in the UK without relying on public funds. This ensures you can both live comfortably and meet the Home Office's housing standards.

You can provide:

• A tenancy agreement
• Mortgage statements if you own the property
• Council Tax bills or other utility bills

If you live with relatives or friends, you can include a letter from them confirming you are allowed to stay there, along with proof of their ownership or tenancy.

Documents Required to Extend a UK Partner Visa

You will need to provide:

• Your valid passport
• Your BRP card, if issued
• Your partner's British passport or proof of settled status
• Proof that your relationship is genuine and ongoing
• Documentation showing you meet the financial requirement
• Proof of adequate accommodation in the UK
• Proof of meeting English language requirements
• Additional documents, depending on your circumstances

How to Extend a Partner Visa in the UK?

To apply for a UK partner visa extension, you must complete and submit the FLR(M) application form online via the GOV.UK website, pay the visa and Immigration Health Surcharge fees, attend a biometric appointment, and provide all necessary supporting documents.

Here's what the process typically involves:

1. Assess your eligibility for a UK partner visa extension application
2. Gather all the supporting documents
3. Complete the online FLR(M) form
4. Pay the visa and healthcare surcharge fees
5. Upload supporting documents to prove your eligibility
6. Book and attend a biometric appointment
7. Wait for a decision from the Home Office (usually takes 8-12 weeks)

How Long Does a UK Partner Visa Extension Take?

A UK partner visa extension typically takes 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK and you meet the financial and English language requirements.

If you apply from within the UK and do not meet the financial or English language requirements, the decision currently takes around 12 months.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once you've submitted your UK partner visa extension application and supporting documents, the Home Office will review your case. If approved, you'll be granted another 30 months (2.5 years) of leave to stay in the UK with your partner.

After completing five years on the partner visa under the 5-year route, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows you to live permanently in the UK.

Common Reasons for Partner Visa Extension Refusals

Unfortunately, many applications are refused due to small mistakes or missing information. Common reasons include:

• Failing to meet the financial threshold
• Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
• Applying after the visa expiry date
• Not meeting the English language requirement

That's why it's so important to get professional legal advice before submitting your application.

How Wembley Solicitors Can Help

At Wembley Solicitors, our experienced UK immigration solicitors can guide you through every step of the partner visa extension process. We can help you:

• Prepare your FLR(M) application correctly.
• Ensure you meet all financial and language criteria.
• Review your documents before submission.
• Handle any complex situations, such as refusals or dependants' applications.

Our team of specialist immigration solicitors provides clear, honest, and affordable legal advice tailored to your personal circumstances. Whether you're renewing your visa for the first time or preparing for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), we're here to make the process simple and stress-free.

How Much Do Solicitors Charge for a Partner Visa Extension Application?

Our immigration solicitors charge a fixed fee of £1000-£1200 plus VAT for complete legal services regarding a UK partner visa extension application.

Legal fees can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your case and whether you require priority or urgent assistance.

Need Help with Your Partner Visa Extension?

For legal assistance with your UK partner visa extension application, contact Wembley Solicitors at 0203 417 3700 or fill out our enquiry form.

Frequently Asked Questions: UK Partner Visa Extension