Renewing Spousal Visa

Hello,

I am a US citizen and I just moved to the UK on my first spousal visa, which will expire in 2.5 years. Even thought I have time, I wanted to know what documents Home Office requires to renew the visa for additional 2.5 years so I can make sure I'll have those documents. By then, we will also have a child. Does that change anything regarding the renewal process.

Also, since I just moved here what are some things that I should urgently get done? For example, registering with a GP, registering for an NI number, creating a bank account, etc.

Thanks!

You'll need essentially the same documents to meet the financial requirement but updated.  You'll also need to meet the accommodation requirement.   Get your name on as much official post as you can either jointly or separately  as you'll need 6 documents each to prove that you've been living together.

Basically, everything you needed for your initial visa application, you will need again. The only new thing is you need to collect your post/mail.

Make absolutely everything you can (utility bills, bank statements, etc) have paper statements. Basically, if anything is on paperless, turn it off!  You need to have 2 years worth of post for your visa renewal. In your name and your partners. Therefor, you really need to be on at least 1 utility bill. you need to have at least 3 sources for the post. Take a look at the FLR application document to see what suggestions they give for acceptable post.

Honestly, a lot can change between now and when you renew, so you'll need to keep an eye on what is required. They regularly update the application paperwork and make changes to the requirements. Probably once a year at least. Gotta love em.

My 2nd FLR app is with UKVI right now. (I came over on a Marriage settlement/fiance visa)
 

As Lyonaria said, do not chuck any post. In 2.5 years you'll thank yourself as you won't be running around like crazy (like me) trying to find every bit of post possible. Things like NHS letters, utility, council tax, work letters etc are great ones to keep. But keep them all anyway as there is a requirement for 'different sources' so filter through what you need when the time comes.

Regarding the second part of your post, you're now in an unfortunate loop that everyone finds themselves in. You need proof of address to get into the doctors, but you need proof of address just to get proof of address. My wife is with Lloyds Bank and they started an account for her with no proof of address. I highly advise trying them first to at least get the proof of address cycle in motion. Then other things will fall into place.

Book yourself in to get your NI number as it's needed to work, as I'm sure you know. Be vigilant with your doctors, you have a right to the NHS. This is a warning just in case they argue with you, as most aren't aware of the visa allowances. However, my doctors didn't batter an eyelid with my wife.

Lastly, your child will be a British citizen once born (as well as American) so will not count towards your second visa application (FLR-M) in terms of minimum earning requirements etc but will need mentioning.

Thank you so much. Yeah, my doctors believed NHS was under Public Funds. They had to check with several people before they told me I could register with them.

GP receptionists are not known for being aware of the rules when it comes to registering if you have a visa. They should know better know though, since the IHS surcharge was introduced in May 2015, because they have to check your BRP card to make sure you have paid for the NHS and are therefore entitled to use their services for free.

It clearly states on the NHS website that if you are on a spousal visa you are entitled to use the NHS and register with a GP from the day you arrive in the UK.

Also, the UKVI website clearly lists what is considered public funds and the NHS is not on the list.


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