Student (Tier 4) to FLR(M) (spouse) visa eligibility?

[tommytommy]

Hello all, my wife (Asian nationality) and I met a few years ago as students (we are both graduating now) and have been married for about 6 months (living together for about 26 months). We are both moving to the US in winter this year indefinitely, but want to apply for FLR(M) now so my wife can begin becoming a citizen down the line, as well as removing the need for her to get a visa to come back to the UK when we want to visit and/or return indefinitely.

Firstly, can we apply, despite we are moving away to the states in a few months?
Secondly, do we need to meet the 18,600 limit? With my intern-ship in the US last year and maintenance loan this year, I have received over £18,600, and my full time position in US (not starting for a few months), I will earn well over the £18,600 limit. Despite being paid in another country and moving abroad, are we eligible?

Other information - my wife has been studying in the UK for 9 years

[Amber]

Absences related to your employment may be acceptable.