Extending a UK Marriage or Fiancée Visa
Once your initial UK Marriage or Fiancée Visa is nearing its end, it’s important to understand the extension process to continue living legally in the UK with your partner. The requirements for extending each visa type are different and knowing the correct steps ensures you don’t accidentally overstay or disrupt your path to permanent residency.
Marriage Visa Extension:
If you are in the UK on a Spouse Visa (Marriage Visa), you can apply for a visa extension before your initial 33-month visa expires. This extension allows you to stay in the UK for an additional 30 months, bringing your total time on a spouse visa to five years — the minimum required for applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
To extend your visa, you must continue to meet the original requirements:
- You are still married to or in a civil partnership with your British or settled partner
- You live together in the UK
- Your partner continues to meet the financial requirement (currently £29,000 annual income)
- You can still prove sufficient knowledge of English
- You have suitable accommodation and are not using public funds
The extension application is done online via the UKVI website using form FLR(M). You will need to provide updated evidence such as recent payslips, bank statements, utility bills, tenancy agreements, and photos as proof of ongoing cohabitation.
Fiancée Visa Extension (Switch to Spouse Visa):
The Fiancée Visa itself cannot be extended beyond its 6-month validity. Its purpose is to allow time for your wedding in the UK. Once married, you must switch to a Spouse Visa (also called FLR(M)) before the 6 months expire.
To do this, you’ll need:
- Marriage certificate from a UK-based ceremony
- Proof that the relationship is genuine and you intend to live together permanently
- Proof of your partner’s income (meeting the £29,000 threshold or equivalent savings)
- Evidence of accommodation and English language ability
Once granted, the Spouse Visa from inside the UK is valid for 30 months and grants you full work rights. This time will count towards your 5-year residency requirement for ILR.
Application Timelines and Fees:
You should apply to extend or switch your visa before your current one expires. Most people apply 28 days before expiry. The application fee for a spouse extension (FLR(M)) is currently around £1,048, with an additional £1,035/year Immigration Health Surcharge and optional priority service fee if fast processing is desired.
What Happens If You Don't Apply in Time?
Failing to extend your visa or switch on time may result in losing your legal immigration status, which could affect future applications or your ability to remain in the UK. It may also negatively impact your route to ILR. It is strongly advised to track your visa dates carefully and start preparing for extension well in advance.
Final Step – Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR):
After spending 5 years in the UK under the Spouse route, you may be eligible to apply for ILR. This grants permanent residency and removes visa restrictions. You must meet continuous residence, financial, and English requirements, and pass the Life in the UK Test.
In summary, visa extension is a crucial part of your immigration journey. Whether you are extending a Marriage Visa or switching from a Fiancée Visa, staying organized and meeting all requirements is essential to maintain lawful residence in the UK and work toward permanent settlement.