At Whytecroft Ford, we regularly assist couples applying for a Spouse Visa extension under Appendix FM, including cases where the Minimum Income Requirement (MIR) is met through pension income. In this case, we supported a retired British sponsor and his Thai spouse in successfully extending her leave to remain in the UK.
Background: A Life Reunited in the UK
Our clients, a British-Thai couple, met and built their life together overseas before deciding to settle permanently in the United Kingdom. After marrying abroad, they relocated to South Wales, where the sponsor had returned following retirement. The applicant initially entered the UK with a spouse visa and, after completing the first 30 months of residence, was ready to apply for further leave to remain.
Challenge: Meeting the Financial Requirement with Pension Income
One of the key requirements under Appendix FM is satisfying the financial threshold. In this case, the sponsor had no current employment income, relying instead on pension-based income. While fully permitted under the Immigration Rules, this route demands precise documentation and compliance with Home Office evidentiary requirements.
The couple wisely sought legal representation to ensure their application was structured correctly, recognising that a refusal could result in both financial and emotional costs.
Our Role and Strategic Approach
At Whytecroft Ford, we ensured that every aspect of the application met the UKVI’s stringent requirements. Our legal team:
- Reviewed the full immigration history and tailored the application to reflect their current circumstances.
- Guided the collection of evidence to demonstrate a genuine and subsisting marriage, cohabitation in the UK, and adequate accommodation.
- Ensured that pension income documentation aligned with the relevant Immigration Rules.
- Guided the English language and suitability requirements, removing any ambiguity.
- Prepared a well-structured application bundle and acted swiftly to respond to any procedural queries.
Outcome: Further Leave to Remain Granted
The application was processed smoothly, and the applicant was granted further leave to remain as a partner for 30 months. This outcome allows the couple to continue their life together in the UK and move confidently towards permanent settlement in due course.
Client Experience: Confidence, Clarity, and Reduced Stress
From the outset, the sponsor was clear that, although the application process may seem manageable, the volume and technical nature of the documentation made professional support a worthwhile investment.
Throughout the matter, the client expressed that the service provided was reassuring and thorough. He appreciated that we were approachable and responsive at every stage, particularly when addressing the finer details of the case.
According to the sponsor, our guidance “considerably reduced the stress of the process” and helped them avoid the uncertainty that could have led to additional costs or complications. He had initially explored online tutorials, but ultimately decided that professional, informed representation was the best course, and found our advice went well beyond just documentation.
Considering a Spouse Visa Extension? We Can Help
Meeting the Minimum Income Requirement through pensions or alternative sources requires careful planning and legal precision. At Whytecroft Ford, we support clients with bespoke advice and fully managed application preparation, so that you can focus on your family, not the paperwork.
Contact our friendly professional team on 0208 757 5751 or use our contact form to find out how we can help you.
