How long can a dependent stay out of the country?

[SKBehera]

Hi,
I am presently on a ILR and my wife got her initial dependent visa for 2.5 years. She stayed in UK for a couple of months before she had to go back to India to finish her education.

Would her prolonged absence from the country affect her visa? I am aware that more than 180 days will hinder her settlement visa after 5 years as the absence will break her continuity. But, will it impact her present visa or be an issue when she re-enters country after an year (within the visa validity time)?

Will it impact her visa extension process later in any way?

[vinny]

See also the guidance relating to time spent outside the UK for spouses under Appendix FM.