Confused expat, guidance needed pls

[maibm]

Hi everyone, require your guidance on a somewhat complex situation.

In 2017 my wife was granted a spouse visa. She arrived in August 2017 and then in 2018 due to a unique career opportunity, we moved overseas. Her spouse visa expired after the 2.5 year period and since then we’ve been visiting family in the UK and she’s been travelling on a visit visa. Now we’re looking to move back to the UK and would greatly appreciate your support in understanding a few points.

First, we’ll be applying for a spouse visa (restart the whole process as her first visa expired). I’ll be applying on the basis of cash savings of £100k which I’ve held for a year. I believe the 5 year route is still available?

Second, once the visa is granted is there a certain minimum duration of time she is required to reside in the UK during the 2.5 year visa?

Third, I’m aware she is required to have a valid IELTS - she did IELTS academic earlier on in the year - can someone advise what scores are required under the academic test for the spouse visa.

Finally, in terms of the application with UKVI, is this something I can do myself or is it something I would need a solicitor for?

I’d be really grateful for any advice and happy to answer any questions but all this is really confusing for both of us.

Many thanks.

[maibm]

Hi all,

Would really appreciate some guidance please