Student to Spouse Visa- Tricky Timeline!

klaidler said:

Hi there! I'm an American studying in the UK, with my course ending September 30th 2012 and my visa expiring at the end of January.

I am just so terribly confused and praying someone can give me some straightforward advice.

We are planning to be married here September 16.

Due to being in a friend's wedding at home, and our own reception/honeymoon in America, we will be going back to the states October 4, 2012.

My question is: SHOULD I apply for the spouse visa/get married before traveling back in October? I would definitely apply for this in person. However, will there be difficulties getting the biometric appointment in person in such a short amount of time (once we submit all the forms online?) Ideally we'd go in person sometime in early September and get everything back in hand within 7 days.

Alternatively do I risk not being allowed back into the UK upon returning from the honeymoon (which would be around October 21st) even though I will have graduation in November and my visa says I can stay until January 2013?

I know this sounds a bit tricky but I need advice on the best time-frame to complete everything in. I should mention I need to go home June 30th-August 24th for a medical procedure that needs to be completed.

When should we officially get married and send in the forms/make the appointment for in person?

Thank you SO MUCH in advance for any advice.....we called one of those websites today and they wanted quite a bit of money to help, are any of them worth it!??? I just feel like it's a rip off if I can figure out everything myself!

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Joppa said:

Solution is quite simple.
Since your student visa is valid until January, you can postpone your FLR(M) application until your return from the US in October.
Or if you prefer, you can apply for FLR by same-day premium service straight after your wedding. Appointments are released 6 weeks in advance and scouring the whole country, you should be able to find a time and date to suit. Your biometrics are taken during the appointment. You usually get your biometric residence permit (don't leave UK without it!) within 5 days, but allow up to 10 days.

If you are going to delay your FLR application till October, then I suggest you carry some supporting documents when going through UK borders, such as marriage certificate, bank statement showing sufficient funds and firm intention to apply for FLR (get a printout of your same-day appointment). But only show them when asked, don't volunteer. Answer questions truthfully.

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