You do not have to be in India but all of the documents, along with the application, must be sent as a complete package from your husband's address in India (or you could use an agency). They won't allow multiple parcels with information.
My husband sent everything, once it was all compiled, and I opened it, made copies, and sent it right back out.
Also, remember that they do require his passport so he will not be able to visit while the application is being processed. My husband and I made sure to get a visit in before sending out our stuff.
Remember to send everything that you need; I hear they have been less likely to request more documentation and more likely to deny applications if they're incomplete. Gather photos, screenshots, email logs, pay slips, bank statements- everything- and send it to him.
You should check out this forum and perhaps search "UK spouse visa checklist" for an idea of what you'll need. I'm pasting below mine. Note that "2 copies" means the original document plus a photocopy:
- Application (online and 2 printed copies)
- VAF4 Appenix 2 (online and 2 printed copies)
- biometrics receipt (2 copies)
- application fee receipt (2 copies)
- worldbridge priority receipt (2 copies) to go on top
- return package label
- write "settlement priority" on the front and back
My info:
- current passport
- previous passport
- intro letter
- 2 passport sized photos
Husband's info:
- passport bio page copy (2 copies) in color
- 6 months of bank statements within 28 days of date of application (2 copies)
- 6 months of pay stubs within 28 days days of date of application (2 copies)
- P60s (think we have two) (2 copies of each)
- employment contract (2 copies)
- signed letter from his boss (2 copies)
- signed intro letter from my husband (2 copies)
Accommodation:
- tenancy agreement (2 copies)
- letter from estate agency (saying I can be added to tenancy agreement only if a visa is granted) (2 copies)
- council tax bill (has both our names on it) (2 copies)
- utility bills (talktalk and water) (2 copies)
- floorplan (2 copies)
Shared info:
- marriage certificate and copy
- photos from ceremony at register's office (2, one for the original pile and one for the copy pile)
- photo evidence of us together, dated, 2 each, each within 6 months of the other
- facebook message screenshots (2 copies)
- facetime/skype screenshots (2 copies)
- call records (2 copies)
- flight itineraries of our visits (2 copies)
- hotel/event receipts (2 copies)
************************************************************
Please keep in mind I applied from the US, not India, and your husband will be required to supply additional documents like perhaps an English language document (proof that he can communicate with you, in English) and a TB test (depends on the country).
GOOD LUCK!!! Don't send the application until you're certain everything is in order; there aren't any refunds!
