Resigning and getting married to a UK citizen

[Sree03]

Hi there, I'm looking to resign from my current employer (sponsor) as there is a mismatch is expectation. I'm a tier 2 general visa holder since Sept 2014. My visa expires in 2017. I will also be getting married to my partner who is a UK citizen next month. How long do i have to remain in the UK upon handing over my resignation letter and what visa will i need to remain married here in the UK.

Thank you.

[CR001]

Once you resign, your visa will be become invalid once your employer notifies UKVI once you have left employment.

How long is your notice period?

The best option in my opinion would be to switch to FLR(M), if you and your future spouse meet all the requirements before you resign. You can apply for FLR(M) in person or by post.

[Sree03]

My notice period is one month. How long do you reckon the FLR(M) application will take?

Thank you.

[CR001]

Like I said, you can apply in person for a same day decision (slightly more expensive) or if you apply by post, it can take a couple of months.

You will also be on a new 5 year residence route before you can apply for ILR.

You will also need to pay the new IHS Surcharge (Click) and it is payable upfront as you need the IHS number before you can submit FLR(M). The cost of this is £500 (£200 per year for a 2.5 year visa).

[Sree03]

Thank you so much Char,

Just one last question though, I'm guessing all this has to be done before the marriage registration?

Thank you again.

[CR001]

You can only switch to FLR(M) after your marriage as you need the marriage certificate to apply.

[CR001]

Have you already given notice at the UKVI approved Registrars to get married?

The process for registering marriage changed earlier this year and you will need valid leave to give notice, so best not to resign until you are married.

[Sree03]

Thank you Char,

Just to recap, is this the correct sequence of what I will have to do?
- Give notice to UKVI approved Registrars
- Registration
- IHS Surcharge
- Switch to FLR(M)

Thank you so much.

[CR001]

- Give notice to UKVI approved Registrars
- Registration
- Get married following after giving at least 28 days at the Registrar Getting Married- Foreign National (Click)
[color=#FF0000-Get marriage certificate (I am not sure of the process in the UK for this, the Registrar can advise)[/color]
- IHS Surcharge Yes once you are married and have marriage certificate
- Switch to FLR(M) Yes once you are married and have marriage certificate. If you plan to apply in person at a premium service centre, you will need to make the booking online and pay the fee after IHS step above.

You will also need to go through the FLR(M) form and gather the documents required, specifically the financial requirement evidence and you need to meet the English A1 requirement.

[Casa]

Do bear in mind that when the Registrar advises the Home Office of your intention to marry as he is legally required to do when a foreign national is marrying, they may request a 70 notification period (extended from the 28 days), during which time they have the right to interview you both before allowing the wedding to take place.