Key Points
- First visa: up to 2 years and 9 months.
- Extension: a further 2 years and 6 months.
- Settlement: after 5 continuous years.
- Citizenship: possible straight after settlement for spouses of British citizens.
The route at a glance
| When | Stage | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Start | First spouse visa | All requirements, English at A1 |
| Around 2.5 years | Extension | Requirements again, English at A2 |
| 5 years | Indefinite Leave to Remain | B1 English and the Life in the UK Test |
| After ILR | British citizenship | Residence and good character requirements |
Why the first visa is 2 years and 9 months
The extra three months allow time to travel to the UK. The five years for settlement count from the date you arrive, provided you arrive within that window.
Dates to put in your diary
- The expiry date of each visa
- The earliest date for the extension, usually 28 days before expiry
- The earliest date for settlement, 28 days before the five years are complete
- The expiry of your English test, if you plan to reuse it
What can lengthen the route
Entering as a fiancé adds up to six months that do not count. A grant outside the standard requirements puts you on the ten-year route. A gap in permission can break continuity altogether.
Official Sources
This page is general information, not legal advice. The rules and figures are set by the Home Office and can change.