SPOUSE VISA TO FLR.... FEW QUESTIONS

[pauldm21]

Hi all,

seeking a bit of advice on my wife's Spouse Visa > FLR > ILR process. I understand the basics of it all but have a few questions regarding the first entry visa to the further leave to remain stage.....

My wife (Peruvian) entered UK on Spouse Visa in April 2013, so her 33 months takes her to Jan 2016. I understand she has to pass another English Test (B1) and Life in the UK test.... when is a good time to sit these? Do they generally have a validity period? And what are the approximate costs?

Is there any restriction on time spent outside of the UK within these first 2.5 years? We are planning a 3 week trip to Peru in July and she is hoping to go again (for roughly 2 weeks) next December. Aside from this, we've spent time in Italy and Spain last year totalling about 3 weeks. It hadn't occurred to me before but I assume holidays, within the visa period, are permitted?

When it comes to the FLR application, are there any questions, or are you required to declare any criminal convictions? Due to a combination of too much alcohol and bad luck, my wife was detained by police for Breach of the Peace and 2 counts of minor assault (resisting arrest). She has not been formally charged, but was detained and has been summoned to court next month. My obvious concern is will this have any impact on her FLR and any future visa applications?? Do the home office run checks along these lines on applicants?

Thanks in advance for any help. Whether or not its the news we ant to hear, its better than not knowing.

[MPH80]

The life in the UK test does not have an expiry. English tests may. But take them with good time remaining so you've got time for a re-test if necessary.

Your holidays won't be a problem. It becomes a problem if you're clearly living apart (e.g. she's only spending a few weeks here and there with you).

You DO need to declare any convictions - see section 10 of the FLR(M) form. Please note that this MAY affect her ability to get ILR depending on the timing (see: http://www.immigrationboards.com/indefi ... 20784.html)

The most likely situation based on what you've put is under iv in that table.

M.