Spouse visa duration and renewal query

[Claireglia]

My husband has been granted a spouse visa which conmenced on 10/12/14. He first entered the UK on 28/05/15. It expires on 10/09/17. That means he will have been in UK for 2 years, 3 months and a few days when it expires. I know it's early to be considering this but we just prefer to know where we stand. When it comes to renewing to take him up to 5 years is there an option to select a renewal period that will cover it? I keep seeing renewals referred to as 2.5 years which won't be enough. Secondly is there a maximum number of days that you can stay out of the UK if you are intending to apply for ILR after 5 years? Thank you

[geriatrix]

You cannot "choose" renewal period. Leave is granted for 2.5 years (Section D-LTRP).

Regarding absences for partner, see also previous guidance > Time spent outside the UK.

Current guidance > Appendix FM 1.0a: Family Life (as a Partner or Parent): 5-Year Routes > 4.4. Indefinite leave to remain requirements, just repeats that the Immigration rules must be satisfied and adds:

The first application for ILR on the 5-year partner route will not be received until 2017. This guidance will be updated to include full guidance for ILR applications closer to that date.

[Claireglia]

Thank you for the response. As I am a British citizen does he actually need ILR or can he apply straight for citizenship after 3 years?

[geriatrix]

No citizenship without ILR.

[Claireglia]

Thanks again.