Passport Photos for new service

Post by **CR001** » Mon Dec 10, 2018 6:06 pm

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Mon Dec 10, 2018 6:02 pm
Thanks CR001, but we are doing going through the new online service. The guidance notes you linked to state passport photographs required for both applicant and spouse.

I can't find anywhere to confirm if this is also required when doing the new online form.

SoS

I posted the links as a reference as you stated there was no guidance. The Immigration rules have NOT changed in what is required as supporting documents. It is ONLY the application process that has changed.

So you might not need physical photos, will it harm your application to submit any, no it won't. You definitely do not need evidence of monthly costs. Note also that the same form is used for different routes, it is generic. You only submit what is applicable to your route, which is a re-run of the up to date documents you used for your FLR(M) extension application, nothing more.

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Mon Dec 10, 2018 7:01 pm

CR001,

Appreciate what you are saying and understand that it is a generic form.

The document checklist produced at the end of my wife's application clearly states:

"Evidence of monthly housing costs for the accommodation in the UK where you live or will live"

What would you recommend submitting to meet this?

Note, there is a separate requirement for evidence of council tax costs.

SoS

Post by **CR001** » Mon Dec 10, 2018 7:13 pm

It is not required.

It is likely for those applying under the adequate maintenance and accommodation rule who do not have to meet the financial requirements due to getting certain benefits as there is a specific calculation they have to prove and provide.

Note the adequate maintenance and accommodation section of the form would not be relevant to you so hope you have not completed that.

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Mon Dec 10, 2018 8:16 pm

CR001,

Thanks for the clarification and you have got me worried now.

We definitely meet the financial requirement and have stated as such on the relevant sections of the form. I have just gone through all our answers on the application and the monthly costs evidence seems to have been triggered by this question:

Do you own or rent your home?

My wife answered that she does own, however, technically she doesn't as the mortgage is under my name only. Will it matter if the bills provided as evidence are under my name?
The council tax bills are in joint names.

Please advise as I don't want the application to get rejected on this small technicality.

Regards,
SoS

allyf · Post by **allyf** » Mon Dec 10, 2018 11:20 pm

Hi spouseofsettler, I have started the online form for Set M and am actually shocked by some of the questions already! It is very different from the paper form set M....
I haven’t gotten to the finance section yet but will confirm what is stated in that area for myself.

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Mon Dec 10, 2018 11:29 pm

Thanks allyf, would be great to know.

Glad it's not only me that thinks it is different to paper form!

SoS

allyf · Post by **allyf** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 1:15 am

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Mon Dec 10, 2018 11:29 pm
Thanks allyf, would be great to know.

Glad it's not only me that thinks it is different to paper form!

SoS

Ok I have now finished the finance section...you are right SpouseOfSettler..they appear to be asking “evidence of monthly housing costs for the accommodation in the UK where you live” AND Evidence of council tax costs for the accommodation in the UK where you live or will live”.....
I own the house with my husband and we have a joint mortgage together. This appears to be causing the issue...

However, it does give a disclaimer at the bottom of that page... “This evidence is not needed but is preferred. You must check this box even if you are not giving this evidence to show that you have understood this”

What does this mean really?! Do we or don’t we?

I have the mortgage agreement and was planning to submit as one of my proof of address with my husband...not sure if I can apply same evidence for this section too?

CR001, what do you think?

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 9:22 am

Hi allyf,

Thanks for the update. I did not notice the disclaimer but it just adds to the confusion!

I would like to know if the same document can be submitted in multiple categories. I have council tax bills that I plan to use for proof of address as well as evidence of council tax costs.

CR001, you have been helpful so far and would appreciate your thoughts on this?

Regards,
SoS

Post by **CULLINAN** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 9:48 am

The system is pretty new and not properly updated yet. I am Tier 1 and the online form asks for evidence for 2 things which is NOT required by the guidance.

So I would suggest follow the guidance only. If the guidance says its not required dont worry about checking the boxes in the online form.

Also the passport size photos are no longer required for the new online system. A digital photo will be taken at biometric appointment. A service message was rolled out regarding this on 1st Nov when the new system started.

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 10:00 am

Hi tier11417,

Thanks for confirming about the passport photos no longer being required.

With regards to the guidance, are you saying it has not been updated for the new service?

SoS

Post by **CR001** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 10:01 am

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 10:00 am
Hi tier11417,

Thanks for confirming about the passport photos no longer being required.

With regards to the guidance, are you saying it has not been updated for the new service?

SoS

As I said, the rules and requirements have not changed. It is only the application process and submission system that has changed.

allyf · Post by **allyf** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 10:39 am

tier11417 wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 9:48 am
The system is pretty new and not properly updated yet. I am Tier 1 and the online form asks for evidence for 2 things which is NOT required by the guidance.

So I would suggest follow the guidance only. If the guidance says its not required dont worry about checking the boxes in the online form.

Also the passport size photos are no longer required for the new online system. A digital photo will be taken at biometric appointment. A service message was rolled out regarding this on 1st Nov when the new system started.

HI tier11417 and SpouseOfSettler, online advises to tick the box “even if you are not providing evidence”....which means it is coming up on the checklist at the end...I’m Assuming we need to definitely tick the box?
Also can you please send the link of the guidance?

Post by **CR001** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 10:42 am

CR001 wrote: ↑
Mon Dec 10, 2018 5:56 pm
See below links for the Set M paper form (archived) and the Set M Guidance Notes.

https://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov ... -form-setm

https://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov ... -07-18.pdf

Already provided on page 1!

allyf · Post by **allyf** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 10:51 am

CR001 wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 10:42 am

CR001 wrote: ↑
Mon Dec 10, 2018 5:56 pm
See below links for the Set M paper form (archived) and the Set M Guidance Notes.

https://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov ... -form-setm

https://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov ... -07-18.pdf
Already provided on page 1!

Sorry thank you I just noticed you posted it earlier

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 11:44 am

Final document check

Thank you to everyone who has contributed in this thread. I just wanted to do a final document check before we go to the Visa centre tomorrrow. I would like particular attention to the dates of documents that show proof of cohabitation over last 2.5 years - are they spaced out evenly enough?

Wife visa expiry: 31/12/18

Mandatory documents

- mine and my wife's passports
- my signed declaration

Other documents

- mine and my wife's signed contracts of employment
- mine and my wife's letters from respective employers

- my printed bank statements from Mar - Dec (these are online version as paper copies have not come through depsite ordering 2 weeks ago, so had to print online and get stamped in branch)
- my payslips from Mar - Nov (I've been in employment longer but wanted to match bank statements)
- my P60

- wife's posted bank statements from May - Dec
- wife's payslips from May - Nov (she started her job in May, was unemployed prior to that)

- wife's Masters degree certificate taught at University in the UK
- wife's Life in UK test pass letter
- my passport again for proof of settled status in the UK
- wife's current BRP

- latest utility bills for evidence of monthly housing costs

Proof of cohabitation

10 documents in total (2 joint, 8 individual):

1. Council tax bill 2017-18 in Joint Names
2. Council tax bill 2018-19 in Joint Names

3. Wife's NHS letter June 2016 (will this be accepted as part of 2.5 years??)
4. Wife's mobile bill Dec 2016
5. Wife's mobile bill Dec 2017
6. Wife's HMRC letter Sep 2018

7. My gas bill July 2016
8. My gas bill Sep 2016
9. My water bill Nov 2017
10. My electricity bill May 2018

Other documents

- our marriage certicate
- signed mortgage acceptance form

Thanks,
SoS

Post by **CULLINAN** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 12:12 pm

The new online form gives a checklist at the end. I meant, it can make some errors as the new online form is very new.

As I said, similarly the check list for Tier 1 also demands for two documents which are not required by the guidance but we have to tick the boxes to proceed.

But we have to follow the guidance so dont worry about checking the boxes in the check list.

If you think something is not required as per the guidance but the online form check list is demanding that, you should follow the guidance as the final source. You can explain that in the cover letter if needed.

I cant comment any further on your particular case as I am not aware of your category but I just wanted to draw a similarity how the online form check list can be misleading.

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 12:19 pm

Sorry, should have mentioned my wife is applying for her ILR through the 5 year route using form SET(M).

allyf · Post by **allyf** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 12:22 pm

tier11417 wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 12:12 pm
The new online form gives a checklist at the end. I meant, it can make some errors as the new online form is very new.

As I said, similarly the check list for Tier 1 also demands for two documents which are not required by the guidance but we have to tick the boxes to proceed.

But we have to follow the guidance so dont worry about checking the boxes in the check list.

If you think something is not required as per the guidance but the online form check list is demanding that, you should follow the guidance as the final source. You can explain that in the cover letter if needed.

I cant comment any further on your particular case as I am not aware of your category but I just wanted to draw a similarity how the online form check list can be misleading.

Thank you Tier11417 for the information. I have checked the boxes for those two new items and I will just go ahead and submit those docs (as I have them anyway)... just to make sure I have no issues raised down the line..

allyf · Post by **allyf** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 12:28 pm

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 12:19 pm
Sorry, should have mentioned my wife is applying for her ILR through the 5 year route using form SET(M).

I’m also SET M 5 year route ILR so I can’t take any chances so will provide what I can. Online form has also asked about problems at immigration which I unfortunately had on my arrival in the UK as a fiancé..the old paper form did not ask this but the online is..so Ever so slightly irritating as I thought all that was behind me but it’s all being dredged up again. I’m guaranteed to have delays on this aspect… Luckily I kept all the paperwork from that including reference numbers so fingers crossed. I wasn’t aware this question would be used so have just hired an immigration lawyer to assist in a few aspects of my application. Let’s see...

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 1:11 pm

allyf wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 12:28 pm

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 12:19 pm
Sorry, should have mentioned my wife is applying for her ILR through the 5 year route using form SET(M).
I’m also SET M 5 year route ILR so I can’t take any chances so will provide what I can. Online form has also asked about problems at immigration which I unfortunately had on my arrival in the UK as a fiancé..the old paper form did not ask this but the online is..so Ever so slightly irritating as I thought all that was behind me but it’s all being dredged up again. I’m guaranteed to have delays on this aspect… Luckily I kept all the paperwork from that including reference numbers so fingers crossed. I wasn’t aware this question would be used so have just hired an immigration lawyer to assist in a few aspects of my application. Let’s see...

That is annoying. Looks like you have all the paperwork to back it up and good idea hiring an immigration lawyer.

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 1:13 pm

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 11:44 am
Final document check

Thank you to everyone who has contributed in this thread. I just wanted to do a final document check before we go to the Visa centre tomorrrow. I would like particular attention to the dates of documents that show proof of cohabitation over last 2.5 years - are they spaced out evenly enough?

Wife visa expiry: 31/12/18

Mandatory documents

- mine and my wife's passports
- my signed declaration

Other documents

- mine and my wife's signed contracts of employment
- mine and my wife's letters from respective employers

- my printed bank statements from Mar - Dec (these are online version as paper copies have not come through depsite ordering 2 weeks ago, so had to print online and get stamped in branch)
- my payslips from Mar - Nov (I've been in employment longer but wanted to match bank statements)
- my P60

- wife's posted bank statements from May - Dec
- wife's payslips from May - Nov (she started her job in May, was unemployed prior to that)

- wife's Masters degree certificate taught at University in the UK
- wife's Life in UK test pass letter
- my passport again for proof of settled status in the UK
- wife's current BRP

- latest utility bills for evidence of monthly housing costs

Proof of cohabitation

10 documents in total (2 joint, 8 individual):

1. Council tax bill 2017-18 in Joint Names
2. Council tax bill 2018-19 in Joint Names

3. Wife's NHS letter June 2016 (will this be accepted as part of 2.5 years??)
4. Wife's mobile bill Dec 2016
5. Wife's mobile bill Dec 2017
6. Wife's HMRC letter Sep 2018

7. My gas bill July 2016
8. My gas bill Sep 2016
9. My water bill Nov 2017
10. My electricity bill May 2018

Other documents

- our marriage certicate
- signed mortgage acceptance form

Thanks,
SoS

Can anyone confirm if these documents are sufficient? Do I need a cover letter to explain why the bank statements are printed and stamped? Also, is my proof of cohabitation documents spaced evenly enough?

Just want to make sure everything is there for tomorrow.

SoS

allyf · Post by **allyf** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 2:01 pm

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 1:13 pm

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 11:44 am
Final document check

Thank you to everyone who has contributed in this thread. I just wanted to do a final document check before we go to the Visa centre tomorrrow. I would like particular attention to the dates of documents that show proof of cohabitation over last 2.5 years - are they spaced out evenly enough?

Wife visa expiry: 31/12/18

Mandatory documents

- mine and my wife's passports
- my signed declaration

Other documents

- mine and my wife's signed contracts of employment
- mine and my wife's letters from respective employers

- my printed bank statements from Mar - Dec (these are online version as paper copies have not come through depsite ordering 2 weeks ago, so had to print online and get stamped in branch)
- my payslips from Mar - Nov (I've been in employment longer but wanted to match bank statements)
- my P60

- wife's posted bank statements from May - Dec
- wife's payslips from May - Nov (she started her job in May, was unemployed prior to that)

- wife's Masters degree certificate taught at University in the UK
- wife's Life in UK test pass letter
- my passport again for proof of settled status in the UK
- wife's current BRP

- latest utility bills for evidence of monthly housing costs

Proof of cohabitation

10 documents in total (2 joint, 8 individual):

1. Council tax bill 2017-18 in Joint Names
2. Council tax bill 2018-19 in Joint Names

3. Wife's NHS letter June 2016 (will this be accepted as part of 2.5 years??)
4. Wife's mobile bill Dec 2016
5. Wife's mobile bill Dec 2017
6. Wife's HMRC letter Sep 2018

7. My gas bill July 2016
8. My gas bill Sep 2016
9. My water bill Nov 2017
10. My electricity bill May 2018

Other documents

- our marriage certicate
- signed mortgage acceptance form

Thanks,
SoS
Can anyone confirm if these documents are sufficient? Do I need a cover letter to explain why the bank statements are printed and stamped? Also, is my proof of cohabitation documents spaced evenly enough?

Just want to make sure everything is there for tomorrow.

SoS

I don’t think you will need a cover letter from bank explaining why stamped, I am doing the same and not providing any cover letter.

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 2:08 pm

allyf wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 2:01 pm

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 1:13 pm

SpouseOfSettler wrote: ↑
Tue Dec 11, 2018 11:44 am
Final document check

Thank you to everyone who has contributed in this thread. I just wanted to do a final document check before we go to the Visa centre tomorrrow. I would like particular attention to the dates of documents that show proof of cohabitation over last 2.5 years - are they spaced out evenly enough?

Wife visa expiry: 31/12/18

Mandatory documents

- mine and my wife's passports
- my signed declaration

Other documents

- mine and my wife's signed contracts of employment
- mine and my wife's letters from respective employers

- my printed bank statements from Mar - Dec (these are online version as paper copies have not come through depsite ordering 2 weeks ago, so had to print online and get stamped in branch)
- my payslips from Mar - Nov (I've been in employment longer but wanted to match bank statements)
- my P60

- wife's posted bank statements from May - Dec
- wife's payslips from May - Nov (she started her job in May, was unemployed prior to that)

- wife's Masters degree certificate taught at University in the UK
- wife's Life in UK test pass letter
- my passport again for proof of settled status in the UK
- wife's current BRP

- latest utility bills for evidence of monthly housing costs

Proof of cohabitation

10 documents in total (2 joint, 8 individual):

1. Council tax bill 2017-18 in Joint Names
2. Council tax bill 2018-19 in Joint Names

3. Wife's NHS letter June 2016 (will this be accepted as part of 2.5 years??)
4. Wife's mobile bill Dec 2016
5. Wife's mobile bill Dec 2017
6. Wife's HMRC letter Sep 2018

7. My gas bill July 2016
8. My gas bill Sep 2016
9. My water bill Nov 2017
10. My electricity bill May 2018

Other documents

- our marriage certicate
- signed mortgage acceptance form

Thanks,
SoS
Can anyone confirm if these documents are sufficient? Do I need a cover letter to explain why the bank statements are printed and stamped? Also, is my proof of cohabitation documents spaced evenly enough?

Just want to make sure everything is there for tomorrow.

SoS
I don’t think you will need a cover letter from bank explaining why stamped, I am doing the same and not providing any cover letter.

Great, I won't add one then.

Do you reckon I am missing any documents?

SoS

allyf · Post by **allyf** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 2:13 pm

It looks good to me… I would just recommend providing more than less.. so if there are any other correspondence throw in a couple more.
I have a slightly more complicated case where we moved houses three times in the last 2.5 years. Only because we were waiting for our house to finish building... i’ve provided about 12 pieces of correspondence (6 each) and anything joint we have ( mortgage, council bill).. however those two are going to be placed in both the evidence of housing costs !! I was organized until I started filling out the online form !!
Best of luck tomorrow and please do keep us posted

SpouseOfSettler · Post by **SpouseOfSettler** » Tue Dec 11, 2018 6:33 pm

Thanks allyf.

I know how you feel....we were organised too until we realised the system has changed!

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