ILR / SET(M) Confusion

[JacketandCoat]

Hi there,
I was granted a Spouse Visa and arrived in the UK in July, 2011.
I recently started preparing for my Life in the UK test, etc. but am a bit confused by the changes to the process...
Does my original visa still expire after 24 months, or is this now 27?
Also, which form do I need to complete, and do I really have to pay another £1051 to extend my visa? - I was under the impression the original fee covers everything? (As it does in Australia...)
I find the UKBA website really confusing - there is some reference to the fact that people who were granted visas before July 2012 are subject to different rules, but I can't find any specific information on those differences.
Thanks for your help folks!!

[Casa]

What expiry date do you have on your visa? Nothing will have changed from that.
You can apply at the earliest 28 days before the 2nd anniversary of the date you entered the UK on your visa...and no later than the expiry date shown on the vignette (sticker).
Yes, I'm afraid you do have to pay the substantial fee for ILR. You need to apply on form SET(M).

[CR001]

Hi there,
I was granted a Spouse Visa and arrived in the UK in July, 2011.
I recently started preparing for my Life in the UK test, etc. but am a bit confused by the changes to the process...
Does my original visa still expire after 24 months, or is this now 27?
Also, which form do I need to complete, and do I really have to pay another £1051 to extend my visa? - I was under the impression the original fee covers everything? (As it does in Australia...)
I find the UKBA website really confusing - there is some reference to the fact that people who were granted visas before July 2012 are subject to different rules, but I can't find any specific information on those differences.
Thanks for your help folks!!

You can apply for ILR 28 days before reaching the 2 years qualifying residential requirement.

You need to complete form Set(M) if on a spouse of settled person or British citizen and yes, you have to pay a new fee for ILR per below :

Fee if you are applying by post - £1051 for main applicant
Fee if you are applying in person R1426 for main applicant
If you have dependents, the fee will be more per the link below.

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/aboutus/fees/

You are applying based on the old rules so you need to do the life in the uk test but your British / settled partner does not have to meet the new financial requirements.

http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas ... fore9july/