Extending spousal visa

okay one question. i wanted to ask it seperatly so that I get a reply.
  I was told at the consolate to just go to  Croyden  2 months before the Visa expires and i would get  my visa extended?

 is that true? do i need to fill in more paperwork? what do u do? i want o to be prepeared. I know i should enjoy the time i am going to spend for 2 years butg i want to be notiified so  i dont have any problems getting a ILR

 shala

Four weeks before your FLR (your spousal visa) expires, you apply for ILR (indefinite leave to remain).  You can apply in person for £500 or by post for £335.  You'll need to fill in a form and you'll need to have proof that you and Patch have lived together for those two years (they'll want to see mail addressed to each of you throughout that 2 year period). 

Once you've done that, you're finished with paperwork...unless you want to apply for British citizenship after you've been here for 3 years.   

Four weeks before your FLR (your spousal visa) expires, you apply for ILR (indefinite leave to remain).  You can apply in person for £500 or by post for £335.  You'll need to fill in a form and you'll need to have proof that you and Patch have lived together for those two years (they'll want to see mail addressed to each of you throughout that 2 year period). 

Once you've done that, you're finished with paperwork...unless you want to apply for British citizenship after you've been here for 3 years.   

Lola, why is it more expensive to apply in person?  Oh, and what exactly is the fee for applying for British citizenship?  Because, I want to do that.

It's more expensive because they have to process you on the same day.  Administrative charges, in theory, although you could argue it's astronomically increased for this purpose.  You will get your visa in the same day though, as long as you have all your documents together and arrive early.  If you do it by post, it can take a long time, up to a couple of months, which is why most people bite the bullet and do it in person.

For citizenship, here's the IND website with the forms and fee info (click on the first set of fees and guidance):

http://www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk/ind/en/home/applying/british_nationality/application_forms.html

I belive it's £336 at the moment, but if the trend continues, it will be a good bit higher than that in three years when you're ready to apply.

Does anyone know how long it takes for them to process the mail applications? My spousal visa expires in late July next year (so I can apply in late June) but we're travelling back to the states in August (for our second wedding! or shall I say reception?)  I just want to make sure I'll have my passport back in time! If its anything like the HSMP waiting time, I might as well pay the ridiculous fee to apply in person!