The UK Spouse Visa Extension allows a stay of up to 30 months, making it a popular choice for those with next of kin working within the UK. The application process can be complex, and with 25% of applications getting rejected, at Synergy Immigration Solutions, we want to make the process simple.
We often get asked which English test is required for UK spouse visa extension, so this blog will cover all the details you need to know. Having the correct certifications ready for when you apply is the best for giving your application a winning chance at being approved. Keep reading to find out more.
What English test do you have to take for a UK Spouse Visa Extension?
If you quickly search the subject, you may be a bit overwhelmed by the various options available. The process is, however, simple once you are armed with the correct information. In fact, more than 134,000 people were approved for visas in 2021, meaning they had successfully passed some form of English examination.
Whilst there are lots of different test options around, only the following options are legally recognised when it comes to making your application. This is because the content included is best matched to the everyday tasks and life that people living within the UK will need to carry out. Anything from making a phone call to the bank to making conversation in a shop is included to ensure that only those who have a genuine grasp of the language can stay in the UK. This also means that even if you have a spouse here already, your stay is not guaranteed.
You must have completed an A1 level English exam for your initial application. This is the most basic level of English testing and ensures that users understand the English language. This test ensures that the student can speak, write, and understand everyday phrases, introduce themselves and take part in everyday conversations in a way that all can understand. In other words, the level of English should be good enough to participate in all activities as part of the local and broader community.
To extend your Spouse Visa, an additional A2 English text is required. The A2 examination is a more in-depth test which requires a deeper understanding and use of the English language to be displayed. This includes being able to take part in longer conversations and take part in more activities in which more complex language is required. Otherwise known as the GESE Grade 3 exam, the test itself consists of a 7-minute speaking and listening exam. This will be based on a range of topics but don’t worry, as we can help prepare you for all eventualities.
Once you have taken your A2 test, results will be available the following day, and the certificate will be received within a week. However, it would help if you left some additional time, as this will ensure you have all the information needed when you submit your visa application with us.
To take the A2 test, you must provide proof that you are currently in the UK on a Spouse Visa and that you are eligible to apply for an extension to that status. You will also need to have an A1 English-level qualification and be able to provide proof of this.
What is a UK Spouse Visa Extension?
The extension is allowed if you have already successfully been awarded a UK Spouse Visa within the UK. The expansion permits can be made by anyone who is in a civil partnership or marriage that is recognised in the UK at the time of application. When applying for an extension, you will still need to prove the following to show that your relationship is legitimate:
- That you are in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK at the time of application. To do this, you will need to share your marriage or civil partnership certificate.
- You have been living in a relationship for at least two years.
- You may also be asked to prove your relationship further by providing a tenancy agreement, utility bills, joint account bank statements and any other letters which prove you live at the same address.
This information is needed as the Home Office follow strict procedures when providing visas. The UK itself is currently struggling with capacity which means that anyone allowed to stay must be able to contribute to everyday life.
The main benefit of having an extension to a Spouse Visa is that your family can remain together if the partner who has originally come to the UK has been offered additional work or study opportunities. This also means that successful Visa holders can apply to work in the UK and create a foundation for themselves, allowing them to apply for permanent UK citizenship.
You can find out more about how you can apply to extend a UK Spouse Visa here.
Why do I need to take an English test for a UK Spouse Visa Extension?
Being proficient in the English language is not just a box that you have to tick to be allowed to enter the UK but is a skill that will genuinely make your time here much more enjoyable. When deciding who should be allowed to enter the UK to have residency, the government need to ensure that everyone who is approved will be able to contribute successfully to the economy and culture.
By being adept in English, you will benefit from the following:
- Having access to more opportunities in both work and social fields. This could be carving out your own position in a company or taking part in community events which allow you to become more integrated with culture in the UK.
- Not having any issues when it comes to personal admin such as managing finances or dealing with utilities. If you did run into any financial or legal issues whilst being the UK on your VISA, you may end up losing the right to stay as you would not be adhering with the requirement to be fully self sufficient during your time here.
- Being able to help any other family members integrate themselves in the UK. This is particularly important for children who will be attending British schools as international options with different core languages are not that common.
- By having a strong understanding of the English language, you will understand the most widely spoken language in the world. This means you will have more opportunities to interact not just in the UK, but other countries if you intend to travel.
Taking the test and proving that you can be self-sufficient within the UK will mean that there is no reason you cannot contribute to work and social life which is the eyes of the government is very important.
Will my application be rejected if I fail my English test?
Yes, unfortunately, this is one of the core requirements, so not meeting this need means your application will be rejected. Therefore, we recommend taking the test early on in your application journey so that you still have enough time if you must re-take it. The guidelines are in place as they provide you with all the correct foundations needed to flourish in the UK. It also means you are likely eligible for more work and educational opportunities during your time in the UK and after if you decide to leave.
How can Synergy Immigration Solutions help me?
As an OISC-registered company, we are well-versed in the practices required to help people achieve VISA application success.
When you work with us, we can help with all stages of your UK Spouse Visa application, from getting your documents ready to submitting your information. When it comes to the English test, we can provide you with any advice and support that is needed to pass the test the first time. Whether you need help arranging the test itself, need some advice on how you can prepare, or want to ensure you have the correct certification to make your application, we have got you covered.
As you can see from our testimonials, we have worked with people from all backgrounds and across all forms of VISA applications. This is possible as we have a team of top immigration specialists ready and waiting to provide support.
Are you ready to make your UK Spouse Visa Application?
There are lots of steps that go into obtaining your Visa, but that doesn’t mean it has to be difficult. To engage with Synergy Immigration Solutions to support your own journey, please call us on 020 315, 0539, email laura@synergy-immigration.com or submit your request via our online contact form.
Hopefully now that you understand which English test is required for UK Spouse Visa Extension’s, you feel more confident about the process. We promise to provide you professional immigration law support that will provide all the support needed to keep your family together at all times.
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