Visa Renewal Process

[kelzebel]

What steps will I need to take before my spousal visa expires, so that I can expect an easy renewal process?

[Joppa]

Originally Posted by kelzebel

What steps will I need to take before my spousal visa expires, so that I can expect an easy renewal process?

So you are here on 27-month spouse visa and want to apply for ILR?
First, have you passed the Life in the UK test? If not, do so now. As a Canadian, passing the test is deemed to have sufficient knowledge of English. Canadians aren't regarded as from a majority English-speaking country (because of Quebec).
Then make an appointment for same-day premium service, to fall at any time within 4 weeks of living 2 years in UK. Slots are released exactly 6 weeks in advance at midnight, so stay up late and grab as soon as they are released. They go quickly.
Prepare your supporting documents. Most important is your financial evidence, so get the last 6 months of bank statement, P60 and pay slips from you and your partner's job, specifics of housing, marriage certificate, plus others detailed on UKBA site.
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/si...etm0420091.pdf
Get photos.
Download and print our SET(M) form, complete and make a copy.

[kelzebel]

when does the Life in the UK Test need to be taken? I have been here almost 6 months.
I had a short work contract, therefore, i dont have much on my banking statements.
Will this hurt my application? should I wait til I have a longer employment contract?
thanks

[Joppa]

Originally Posted by kelzebel

when does the Life in the UK Test need to be taken? I have been here almost 6 months.
I had a short work contract, therefore, i dont have much on my banking statements.
Will this hurt my application? should I wait til I have a longer employment contract?

Just get it straight. Are you on 27-month spouse visa? When does it expire?
You can't get ILR until you've been here for 2 years, so it's way too early. Pass your test as soon as possible to get it out of the way.
Provided you have £111.45 left over each week after paying for housing and council tax, you are fine. If you have non-EU children, you have to add about £65 for each child.