Time allowed out of the UK on a Spouse Visa?

[Sammie]

How much time can a person spend outside the U.K. within the 2 year spouse visa period? Is it something like 3 weeks per 6 months?

Also, as long as you don't go over the recommended "away time", it shouldn't have any impact when applying for ILR/FLR should it?

Thanks

[vinny]

4.5. Further guidance

There is no specific requirement in the Rules that the entire probationary period must be spent in the United Kingdom. For example, where an applicant has spent a limited period outside of the United Kingdom in connection with his employment, this should not count against him. However, if he has spent the majority of the period overseas, there may be reason to doubt that all the requirements of the Rules have been met. Each case must be judged on its merits, taking into account reasons for travel, length of absences and whether the applicant and sponsor travelled and lived together during the time spent outside the United Kingdom. These factors will need to be considered against the requirements of the Rules.

Don't forget to collect the documents as suggested in section 10 of the form SET(M) and the Knowledge of language and life in the United Kingdom requirements. Absences may affect naturalisation applications.