Renewal of unmarried partner's visa after 30 months

[hip999]

When I apply to extend an unmarried partner's visa after 30 months (for another 30 months to make a total of 5 years before I am able to apply for ILR) and apply by post, will any time taken to process the new visa add to the 5 year total? For example, if the 1st visa was issued on 01/03/2013 and the 2nd visa is applied for on 01/08/2015 (one month before the 30 month expiry date of the first visa) but not received until 01/11/2015 then will it be valid from 01/09/15 or 01/11/15?

[CR001]

You should only apply within 28 days of expiry. Applying by post, which can take months, the visa will likely be valid from date of issue.

If you can afford it, try apply in person for a same day decision.

Also, note that you will need to pay the NHS surcharge at point of application (£200 per year so an additional £500 to cover duration of visa extension)

https://www.immigration-health-surcharg ... ment/start