YXY1984

Hi, I am currently on a spousal visa that is expiring in Oct 2020. Is there a rule on when I can start the extension process? Can I submit it now? I tried looking up the gov website but cannot find a definite answer.

Thank you very much!

Policy reader

Apply now might be a collosal error because first of all you won't get any biometrics appointment and you will be stuck in the process after paying huge fee. Secondly you might have to apply 3rd extension to qualify for ILR due to having shortfall

SanDiegogirl

If you are here on family route (as spouse or unmarried partner), and you entered UK on 33-month visa, then the earliest you can apply to renew your leave on form FLR(M) is on the 30-month anniversary of your UK entry (not from 'valid from' date on your visa, unless you arrived here on the first day of validity), minus 28 days. So for example, if you arrived in UK on your settlement visa on 17th June 2015, you can apply on 17th December 2017 (30-month anniversary), minus 28 days which will be 19th November 2017. So that's the first day you can book your premium service centre appointment for (for same-day service) or send off your application by post.

If you switched your leave within UK from fiancé(e) visa or any other non-visit visa (such as Tier 4 student, Tier 5 YMS or Tier 2 General) to leave to remain as spouse/partner on form FLR(M), your leave will be for exactly 30 months so you can renew up to 28 days before its expiry. This is also the case for ILR (settlement) application after being in UK for 5 years.