If you’re currently living in the United Kingdom on a spouse or partner visa, there will come a point where you need to think about how to renew a spouse visa in UK, especially as you approach the end of your initial 30-month visa period. Renewing this visa is an essential step toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), and understanding the rules early makes the entire process far smoother.
This 2026 guide breaks down everything: eligibility, documents, timelines, financial requirements, common mistakes, and what to expect during processing.
A UK spouse visa is typically granted for 30 months, after which most applicants must extend for another 30 months before becoming eligible for settlement. The renewal stage is formally called the Further Leave to Remain (FLR M) application.
The official rules are outlined through the Home Office’s partner route guidance:
Partner route guidance
When learning how to renew a spouse visa in UK, it’s important to understand that the renewal process is not optional. Allowing your first visa to expire without applying puts your immigration record at risk and may affect future ILR and citizenship eligibility.
You can apply to extend your spouse visa up to 28 days before your current visa expires. The application is submitted online.
The UK government provides a clear starting point here:
Extend your spouse visa
Applying early is recommended because biometric appointments and document uploads can take time, and waiting too long can cause unnecessary pressure. Many applicants begin preparing documents several months in advance.
The most important part of how to renew a spouse visa in UK is gathering the correct documents. The Home Office expects applicants to provide updated proof of relationship, financial evidence, English language results (if required), and proof of accommodation.
IRCC-style layouts not needed here — just clear UK-specific categories:
Unless exempt, you and your partner must show a minimum income of £18,600 per year, or higher if you have non-British children.
Full financial rules are listed here:
Financial requirement rules
Acceptable evidence includes:
Payslips (6 months)
Bank statements (6 months)
Employment letter
Self-employment financial proof if applicable
The Home Office expects updated proof your relationship is genuine and ongoing, including:
Joint bank statements
Tenancy agreements or mortgage documents
Utility bills in both names
Photos, travel records, or shared commitments
You must show you have adequate accommodation without overcrowding.
Guidance is provided here:
Accommodation requirements
If you didn’t already meet the A2 requirement during the first spouse visa, you may need updated English evidence.
Full rules:
English language requirement
Renewing a spouse visa in the UK includes several fees:
Application fee
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Optional priority processing
Fees change yearly, and the newest amounts are always listed through the Home Office’s fees page:
UK visa fees
Because the spouse route spans several years until ILR, many couples plan renewal costs well in advance.
Standard processing can take several weeks or months depending on workload and whether additional documents are requested. You can check current processing times via:
UK visa processing times
Applicants who need faster outcomes may use priority or super priority services, where available.
If you submit your renewal before your current visa expires, you are protected under Section 3C Leave, meaning you remain legally in the UK with the same rights while awaiting a decision.
Your work rights, travel rules, and living conditions remain unchanged during this period.
This safety net is a key part of understanding how to renew a spouse visa in UK—many applicants don’t realise they are automatically protected.
The most frequent issues seen during spouse visa renewal include:
Missing bank statements or incorrect formatting
Submitting fewer than 6 months of financial evidence
Unclear or inconsistent relationship proof
Incorrect accommodation documents
Not booking biometric appointments on time
Forgetting to update passport details
Uploading blurry scans or unreadable documents
Miscalculating the financial requirement
Even small errors can lead to delays or requests for further information, so preparing early is critical.
Some applicants may fall under special categories, such as:
Financial exemption due to sponsor receiving certain benefits
Relationship breakdown
Domestic abuse provisions
Serious illness or long-term medical conditions
Changing employer during the renewal period
The Home Office’s complete guidance outlines how these situations may affect your application:
Partner route detailed rules
Once your extension is approved, you will receive another 30-month spouse visa. After completing 5 years total in the partner route, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
This is often the final goal for couples who begin researching how to renew a spouse visa in UK, as ILR leads toward British citizenship for those who qualify.
If you’re gathering documents, checking financial requirements, or simply want clarity on how to renew a spouse visa in UK based on your personal situation, UKGIC can help you understand your pathway step-by-step.
You can get in touch at any time to speak with a consultant about your next steps.
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