Form FLR(M) Query

[jack823]

Hi,

I'm a British citizen living and working in the UK. Two months ago, I married my Turkish girlfriend in a ceremony held in Turkey. After the wedding, she accompanied me back to the UK on a visit visa. Now she'd like to apply for a marriage visa so she can live and work in the UK.

I've had a look on the UKBA website and am struggling to understand whether it's possible to change from a visit visa to a marriage visa. It seems that Form FLR(M) may be an option, but is anyone here able to confirm / refute that?

If she does have to return to Turkey and apply from there, does anyone know:

(1) how long it usually takes them to process an application for a marriage visa?

(2) whether I'll have to travel to Turkey to attend any interviews or similar?

(3) whether they'll retain her passport while the application is being processed?

Thanks very much for your help!

Jack

[MPH80]

My understanding is that it's not possible to switch from visit to FLR(M) in country. You'll need to return to Turkey from what I believe.

With regards your particular questions - I'll answer from my experience of doing a fiancee visa:

1) You can find that out here: http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/processingtimes

2) I would go if it were me - we found both of us being there simplified our application - but that was us trying to convince the ECO of a relationship that wasn't yet a marriage. You don't have to be there - but you do have to provide a supporting letter etc.

3) Yes.

M.