Marrying in Europe
Relocating to UK
Hello Forumites!I am a UK Citizen and have been in a relationship with a Russian Lady for some years now.
We would like to live together in the UK (ultimately marriage), and are curious how best to go about it.
Are there any UK websites that detail in depth the various requirements including visa types for her to live and work in the UK? If so, which?
I'd welcome specific information about:
- Visa types and their requirements/ramifications?
- Necessary salaries (Her and Me)?
- Necessary savings (Her and Me)?
- Home (Should the UK home be bought already, or is renting adequate?)
- Employment (I must be an employee through PAYE, Self-Employed, or is Freelance OK?)
- Necessary Level of English Competency? With approved certification through which specific organisation(s) e.g. IELTS?
- Her 'rights' to future UK Employment? When would that be granted?
- Her 'rights' to 'free' NHS Treatment, at the same level granted other UK residents?
Thanking you in advance for your help!
Ben
Of all countries on planet earth, the UK has managed to generate the worst, most inconsistent and arbitrary visa system of all (which is one reason why I moved away).
Technically speaking there are several possibilities for you and your lady to come / be together.
Let's have a look at all the possible 6 options:
Cat I (special purpose visas)
1) diplomatic visa -> not applicable
2) work visa: they're valid for a year, IF your lady finds a company that will vouch for her and cover all her 'administrative expenses', i.e. NHS contributions, incoming flight to the UK, visa processing fees and issues a "letter of guarantee" - those are required to make sure that there is someone who can be made legally liable, should the invited turn out to be criminal. (Obviously that does not apply to oligarchs )
3) a student visa:
This is a good way of getting someone into the country, IF you can afford it - as the visa would automatically be valid for the duration of the course(s).
Cat II (visiting visa)
1) regular tourist visa through a travel agency (self explanatory)
2) visiting visa 1
You invite her and she vouches for herself: SHE needs to give FULL proof of her financial capabilities and assets plus deliver a so-called "return guarantee" from an employer in RUSSIA. These can take up to between 60-80 days to process.
3) visiting visa type 2:
You invite her and YOU vouch for her. That means financial striptease for you: you will be required to give evidence that hour place of residence is large enough to accommodate you both, you need to submit evidence of your financial potency: drafts from your bank account, tax forms and evidence of income (a confirming letter of your employer and your work contract). If you're self-employed or work freelance, you must prove that you still have ongoing contracts and jobs 'in the pipe' and document the past calendar year in detail.
I hope that helps and wish you and your lady all the best!
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