Timing of application for spouse visa

Hi,

I am British, married to someone non-British and living abroad with our two kids (who both have British passports).
We are planning to relocate to the UK in the summer, and so need to apply for a visa for my husband to "join a family" in the UK.
My question is this - can he make this visa application before I am actually living in the UK?
I already have a job sorted out and an address, but we won't be moving physically for several months.
We really need to make the move together as a family, so this seems to be the only sensible way of doing it, but I am concerned that the application may be rejected because I am not yet "present and settled" in the UK.

Please advise!
Thanks

Yes he can apply and ask for his visa to be deferred for up to 3 months. In the application however, you will have to show that as the sponsor you have been earning the equivalent of £18,600 p.a for the 12 months previous to the application date in your present country of residence, and have written confirmation from your employer in the UK that your employment will start within 3 months of your arrival, again meeting the minimum salary level of £18,600 p.a