Should I extend my spouse visa or apply for a new one

[billmark]

Hello friends,

I am on a spouse visa that is due for renewal. Since I was granted the visa nearly 2.5 years ago, I have been spending most of the year outside the UK as I am self employed and I have to travel for projects abroad.

All in all, I think on average I spent 3 to 4 months per year in the UK.

When I check the online visa extension form, they ask about how often I traveled and they also want a proof of joint statements with my spouse or any proof of genuine relationship over the last 2 years.

Do you think I should apply for extension or should I proactively state that I haven't been living extensively and thus apply for a new spouse visa (and state the reason as not having lived enough in the UK as required)

Many thanks

Bill

[seagul]

When I check the online visa extension form, they ask about how often I traveled and they also want a proof of joint statements with my spouse or any proof of genuine relationship over the last 2 years.

Without cohabitation evidences the extension won't succeed despite there is no absence. However, a spouse visa holder is expected to live and settle in UK with his/her family.

[Korekt]

You will be asked to list the absences and the reasons for them.

The application can still be granted where there are valid reasons for the absences and the relationship subsists.