How does a U.S Citizen apply for a UK Spouse Visa?

Question

Hi all,hope someone can help me!

I'm a British Citizen,and my husband is an American Citizen. He's going to move to the UK via Spouse Visa.

My question is,what are the actual steps you take to apply for one?

My husband resides in the State of New Jersey,which means his case will be delt with by the British Embassy in New York. Now,a friend of mine who knows a bit about immigration,says my husband has to actually go to the Embassy to apply,because you can't apply online. But when i go to the New York British Embassy website,it says you can apply online. So...which way do we apply?!

We've got all "evidence" together,like letters of support,financial details etc.

If there's anyone out there who has recently done this kind of immigration (from the USA to the UK),then any help on the steps you have to take to apply would be great!

Thanks in advance x

Answer 1

Go to http://www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk/ and fill out your visa application, then you go ahead and pay for it $1082.00 and you submit it. It will ask you to set an appointment for Biometric data, once you decide on the date and location. Then they will ask you to mail a list of supporting proof like Bank statements, passport, phone bills, e-mails, the lease for your residence in the UK, your payment stubs for checks etc. to the NY British Consulate within 2 weeks of your appointment.

Hope it helps.  

Answer 2

Go down your local citizens advice bureau and ask them, they will tell u everything and get u started.

Answer 3

Jaed's right.  I did this in March and got my visa within a week.  My initial email response said 90 days which shocked me a bit as I was in the States staying with friends but then it arrive 2 days later.  Just make sure you include as much as possible.  I even included some wedding photos.  After you get it, the next time you enter the UK you'll have to be screened by a doctor in immigration.  Rubber stamp if coming from the US.  Good luck.