Spouse Visa Extension: New Financial Requirements and Our Successful Case
As of 11 April 2024, the UK has raised the financial requirements for the Spouse Visa, leading to many questions and concerns among applicants. However, these changes don’t necessarily apply to everyone. Let’s delve into the details and share a successful case handled by our team to help you better understand how to meet these new requirements.
Spouse Visa: A Popular Choice for Family Life in the UK
The Spouse Visa is one of the most sought-after visa options for couples looking to live and build a life together in the UK. This visa allows partners not only to live together but also to work or study. Additionally, the Spouse Visa opens the pathway to long-term residency and, eventually, indefinite leave to remain (ILR), making it a preferred choice for many.
New Financial Requirements: Key Details
As of April 11, 2024, new applicants for the Spouse Visa must demonstrate a combined annual income of at least £29,000 to meet the new minimum income rules. These changes aim to enhance the level of financial support available to both the partner and the applicant.
However, for those who submitted their initial Spouse Visa application before this date, the extension requirement remains at the previous minimum income threshold of £18,600 per year, even if they apply after 11 April 2024. This is an important point to remember when applying for a visa extension, as not all applicants need to meet the new requirement.
Our Successful Case: Professional Support and Assurance of Results
Our client, seeking a Spouse Visa extension, was concerned about the financial requirement changes and was unsure which rules applied to his application. Through a careful analysis of his situation and the accurate application of requirements, our team—supervisor Aliya Rimshelis and her assistant Maksym Bondariev—was able to confirm that the client was only subject to the previous requirements. This allowed him to successfully extend his visa.
With his visa now extended, the client will be eligible to apply for ILR in 2.5 years, provided he meets the remaining requirements. We’re proud to have supported him through this process and are ready to help other clients confidently navigate each stage of obtaining and extending their visas.
Key Points When Applying for a Spouse Visa
- Accurate Requirement Assessment: Before submitting your application, ensure you meet the current requirements to avoid refusals and delays.
- Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents to verify income, such as bank statements and employment contracts. Documents must be correctly prepared and submitted on time.
- Advance Planning: It’s advisable to start preparing for your visa extension in advance to avoid issues with deadlines and document submission.
Why Professional Help Matters
The Spouse Visa is a critical and responsible step for couples wishing to reunite and build a future in the UK. Given the rule changes, applying for or extending a visa can be a complex process. Proper assessment of financial requirements and documentation gathering require professional knowledge and experience.
We are immigration experts, ready to support you at every stage of your Spouse Visa application. Contact us, and we’ll help you navigate this path confidently, avoiding complications and achieving a successful outcome.
