So I've just received my spousal settlement visa from the UKBA, all good news.
What happens upon my entry to the UK? Does my wife (UK Citizen) need to be with me and pass through the Non-EU passport control checkpoint with me? Or can she head to the UK citizen lines at passport control?
Any specific paperwork I should have with me and accessible, even though I've already been issued the visa? Basically trying to have my first entry on the settlement visa be as simple as possible!
It helps, though not essential, if your wife can accompany you through UK border in the same non-EU line (if they ask, just say you are a couple). They may ask a few questions about housing and finance, so a rental contract and bank statement should be carried. They may remind you about the conditions of the visa, such as no recourse to public funds and period of validity.
It's not the question of shorter passport queue or convenience, but the UK spouse being there in person should the immigration officer want to ask questions or get a confirmation from the British partner. Also her presence will help allay any suspicions the officer may hold about the authenticity of marriage.
After the initial entry, subsequent re-entry should be routine and the couple can go through separate passport lines.
For fiancé(e), you may be asked or told about:
Your wedding plan (date, venue etc - carry some evidence like booking receipt for reception, wedding invitation).
No work allowed.
Valid 6 months, and when married, must apply for FLR and get biometric resident permit.
Finance (so carry bank statement).
Again it helps if you come in with your UK fiancé(e), or at least they should be waiting for you at the airport with mobile phone.
You are recommended to carry some of the documents you've submitted for your application, mainly financial, accommodation and date and place of proposed wedding. You may not be asked about any of this, but just in case.
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