If you're currently on a UK Spouse Visa and approaching the end of your initial 2.5-year period, it’s crucial to understand the next steps for extending your visa. The UK spouse visa extension fees or Spouse visa extension process involves several key factors such as fees, processing time, and meeting financial requirements. UK Spouse Visa Extension Fees in 2025

The cost of extending your UK Spouse Visa includes both the application fee and the NHS surcharge. Below are the fees you'll need to pay when applying for your extension:

1. Application Fee

• The application fee for a UK Spouse Visa extension in 2025 is £1,048. This fee must be paid when you submit your extension application.

2. NHS Healthcare Surcharge

• You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to maintain your access to the UK’s National Health Service. The IHS costs £624 per year and is paid upfront for the length of the visa extension, typically 2.5 years, totaling £1,560.

3. Priority Service (Optional)

• If you need a quicker decision on your visa, you can opt for the Priority Service, which costs an additional £500. This service will expedite your application, providing a decision within five working days.

4. Super Priority Service (Optional)

• For an even faster result, the Super Priority Service is available for an extra £800, allowing you to receive a decision within 24 hours of your biometric appointment.

UK Spouse Visa Extension Processing Time

Once your visa extension application is submitted, the processing time varies based on whether you choose the standard service or a faster option:

1. Standard Processing Time

• The standard processing time for a spouse visa extension is typically 8 to 12 weeks from the date your application is submitted.

2. Priority Processing Time

• The Priority Service offers a decision within 5 working days after submitting your application and biometric data, for an additional fee.

3. Super Priority Processing Time

• The Super Priority Service provides the fastest turnaround time, with a decision made within 24 hours after your biometric appointment. This service is limited to a certain number of applicants.

It’s advisable to apply well before your current visa expires to avoid any complications or overstaying issues.

UK Spouse Visa Extension Financial Requirement

Meeting the spouse visa extension financial requirement is one of the most important aspects of extending your spouse visa. The UK government mandates that applicants and their sponsoring partners meet a certain income threshold to ensure that they can support themselves without accessing public funds.

1. Minimum Income Requirement

• The minimum income threshold for a spouse visa extension is £18,600 per year. This income can be derived from various sources such as:

  • Employment

  • Self-employment

  • Savings

  • Pensions

  • Rental income

2. Additional Income Requirement for Children

• If you have dependent children who are not British citizens or settled in the UK, you will need additional income. The extra income required is:

  • £3,800 for the first child

  • £2,400 for each additional child

For example, if you’re applying with two children, your income requirement would be £24,800 per year (£18,600 + £3,800 + £2,400).

3. Using Savings

• If you don’t meet the income threshold through earnings, you can use savings to make up the difference. To meet the requirement solely through savings, you’ll need to show £62,500 in savings that have been held for at least six months.

4. Combining Income and Savings

• If your income is below the required amount, you can combine savings and income to meet the threshold. For every £2.50 in savings, the income shortfall is reduced by £1.

Documents Needed to Meet the Financial Requirement

When applying for a spouse visa extension, you must provide evidence to prove that you meet the financial requirement. Below are the typical documents needed:

• Payslips from the past six months (or 12 months if self-employed)

• Bank statements showing regular deposits of your income

• Employer letter confirming your job, salary, and employment status

• Proof of savings (if using savings) held for at least six months

• Tax returns or business financial statements if you are self-employed

Conclusion

Extending your UK spouse visa involves ensuring that you meet the financial requirement, paying the necessary fees, and preparing for the processing times. For those who need a quicker decision, the uk spouse visa extension processing time can significantly speed up the process.

By understanding the visa extension fees, financial requirements, and processing times, you can prepare a successful application and continue living in the UK with your spouse.