Hi all,

My wife's here in the UK on a two and a bit year spouse visa, which is set to expire in the next couple of months.

I've got the renewal form ( https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/304473/FLR_M__04-14.pdf ) and she's done the necessary English test to A1 level.

Just wondered if anyone who's been through the same process could let me know whether that's all they need to issue the renewal, or if we have to send off all the proof of relationship stuff that you have to when you apply for the first time.

Edit: Just a little more info, her visa runs out at the beginning of next month. I know that the walk in service is available, which costs an extra £400, but I'd obviously rather avoid paying this. It says on the gov website that it takes up to 8 weeks for them to respond to a postal application. Does anyone know how long it actually takes, and if any big problems are likely to occur if it runs over the date that her current visa expires?

Cheers

Her present visa status will be maintained throughout the application process as long as the application is received before the existing visa finishes. It used to be the date the application was posted but pretty sure it is now the date of receipt. Therefore the time taken for processing is not so important unless there are plans to travel.

Beyond that is outside my limited expertise!

Thanks Bob, that's reassuring. I was worried I'd have to pay the extra £400.

We've got a trip booked for October, so hopefully they'll have got back to is before then!

Cheers

Her present visa status will be maintained throughout the application process as long as the application is received before the existing visa finishes. It used to be the date the application was posted but pretty sure it is now the date of receipt. Therefore the time taken for processing is not so important unless there are plans to travel.

Beyond that is outside my limited expertise!

Thanks Bob, that's reassuring. I was worried I'd have to pay the extra £400.

We've got a trip booked for October, so hopefully they'll have got back to is before then!

Cheers

Why don't you move to Thailand?

You would feel a world better for it.

Then its only you that has the Visa woes, and they are a pinch of salt compared to those in the UK.