How soon can we apply for Visa Extension

[Michael1988]

Hello
My wife was recently granted a spouse visa for 33 months.

I understand that we will need to extend the visa before we can apply for ilr.

How long before my wifes visa expires can we apply for a visa extension?

Have searched th net for info on this but havent been able to find any info..

Thankyou for your time

[CR001]

Usually within 28 days of the current visa expiry date.

On what date after visa start date (and what is visa start date) did she ENTER the UK?

[Michael1988]

Hi She entered on the morning of the visa start date.

within 28 days of expiry? doesnt the application take 8 weeks?

This is what i'm worried about, if we apply close to the time of expiration of visa, theres a chance we wont be able to reapply in time if refused.

[CR001]

For a 33 month visa, she can then apply for an extension around the 30 month mark, so 3 months before visa expiry (the 3 months is to allow time to sort out travel to the UK without impacting the 60 month residence requirement, which is counted from the date of entry to the UK).

She can apply by post (it can take less or longer than 8 weeks and upto 6 months) or she can apply in person for a same day decision.

You should not base the date of extension application on how long HO takes as this varies greatly and of course in person applications are generally decided on the day while you wait. Applications within the UK don't necessarily follow the same timelines as entry clearance applications from abroad.

This is all based on the rules as they are at present.

[Michael1988]

Thank you for clearing up my concerns.

You gave me answers i couldn't find elsewhere.

I really apprciate it

Thank you!

[CR001]

You are welcome and feel free to ask any questions when the time comes for the extension or any other queries you might have.