Spouse Visa and Spouse Mobility

I have United Kingdom citizenship. I have never lived there, but my wife (U.S. citizen)and I plan to move there within the next couple of years. As I understand the rules, I must have a residence (suitable for two) established in the UK and she must apply from outside the UK.

Questions:

While her spouse visa is pending, may she enter the UK on a regular old tourist visa with a return ticket?

While her spouse visa is pending, am I free to leave the UK and return at will, as long as I maintain a residence there?

Thanks very much for any insights!

orojim wrote: ↑

Sat Sep 18, 2021 6:44 pm

I must have a residence (suitable for two) established in the UK

Not necessarily, initially hotel accommodation or staying with friends or relatives is also acceptable with appropriate supporting evidence

orojim wrote: ↑

Sat Sep 18, 2021 6:44 pm

While her spouse visa is pending, may she enter the UK on a regular old tourist visa with a return ticket?

I expect so but if the BFO checks the records and finds that a spouse visa application is pending she may be subject to extensive questioning for which she should be prepared (with documents).

orojim wrote: ↑

Sat Sep 18, 2021 6:44 pm

While her spouse visa is pending, am I free to leave the UK and return at will, as long as I maintain a residence there?

Being a BC there are no restrictions on your travel and you don't have to maintain a residence in the UK