Thai Visa Express · UK & Thailand
Spouse Visa Extension – A2 English Test & 10‑Year Route
If you can’t pass the A2 English test when extending your spouse visa, you can apply under the 10‑year partner route to stay lawfully in the UK. Our fixed professional fee is £895 (Home Office & IHS fees separate).
What the A2 test means for your extension
At the 30‑month extension stage, the Home Office requires an A2 English language test (SELT) from an approved provider, unless you are exempt (age 65+, serious long‑term medical condition with evidence, or a recognised degree taught in English).
If you can’t pass the A2 test
If you’re unable to meet A2 and no exemption applies, you cannot remain on the 5‑year route. Instead, apply under the 10‑year partner route (Appendix FM – EX.1.). This keeps you lawful in the UK as a spouse/partner. You can switch back to the 5‑year route later once you meet the English requirement.
5‑Year vs 10‑Year Route
- 5‑Year Route – Pass the required English test → settlement (ILR) after 5 years.
- 10‑Year Route – English not required at this switch stage → settlement after 10 years (more renewals/fees).
- Flexible – You may switch back to the 5‑year route once you meet English and other criteria.
Our fixed professional fee
£895 – full case management, document checking, application prep & submission, and representation throughout.
Note: Home Office application fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are additional and paid directly in the UKVI system.
Related services
Returning Resident Visa Guide
Planning to settle back in the UK? Step‑by‑step guidance and requirements.
Extend UK Visitor Visa – Pregnant Partner
How to extend a visitor visa if your partner is pregnant in the UK.
Spouse Visa Extension – FAQs
Yes. If you move to the 10‑year partner route now, you can switch back to the 5‑year route at your next application once you meet the English requirement (A2 or the level required at that stage) and other criteria.
Not at the point of switching to the 10‑year route. English and Life in the UK become relevant for settlement (ILR) unless you are exempt.
Common exemptions include applicants aged 65+, those with a long‑term physical or mental condition that prevents study (with medical evidence), or applicants with a recognised degree taught in English. Evidence is required.
Evidence of a genuine and subsisting relationship, identity and immigration history, cohabitation (where relevant), and an explanation/evidence for not meeting the 5‑year route at this stage. Financial/maintenance details may still be requested.
Apply before your current leave expires to protect your lawful status. If you can’t meet A2, apply under the 10‑year route to avoid a gap. You can then prepare to switch back later.
Use an approved SELT provider such as IELTS Life Skills or Trinity College London at A2 level. Book the UKVI version and keep your Test Report Form.
Our fixed professional fee is £895. Home Office fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are separate and payable directly to UKVI.
Contact Thai Visa Express
Thailand Office
Building – Floor 1, 420/191 Moo 9, Buakhao, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150
Tel: 080 102 2328
