Applying for UK General Vistors Visa from USA

[londonboy78]

My girlfriend and I are currently filling out the application for her to visit me in the UK for a period of 6 months. She has visited twice before (for shorter periods) and i have been there twice in the last year. We have the necessary supporting documents from myself including bank statements, mortgage details, etc as i will be providing accommodation. She has a letter from her employer who has (kindly) granted a leave of absence. and also evidence of sufficient savings to support herself, etc. It is complicated process and i have been scouring websites for advice!

I would just like advice/experience from someone whether it is the right option to apply for this prior to her visit, as we are currently doing for peace of mind, or to seek entry clearance on her arrival?

This may seem like a nobrainer but as a visa is not required from the US, would it work against us to apply for the visa through the British Consulate?

I would appreciate any advice from anyone!

Thanks

[Rozen]

as a visa is not required from the US, would it work against us to apply for the visa through the British Consulate?

I guess it's a matter of choice...
And no, it wouldn't work against you! In fact, less questions (if any) at Port of Entry! I think that's a good enough reason. IMHO.

[ElenaW]

as a visa is not required from the US, would it work against us to apply for the visa through the British Consulate?

I guess it's a matter of choice...
And no, it wouldn't work against you! In fact, less questions (if any) at Port of Entry! I think that's a good enough reason. IMHO.

Totally agree, I know tons of people that have done this to make their holiday less stressful.

[Wanderer]

Don't forget she can't spend more then six months in any twelve on visit visa or visit visa waiver and be wary of the 'genuine visitor' guidance IO's follow.

[f2k]

Don't forget she can't spend more then six months in any twelve on visit visa or visit visa waiver and be wary of the 'genuine visitor' guidance IO's follow.

Which then would lead to the question 'Why does she need the visa in the first place'. If she comes visa free she will be able to stay up to 6 months, if she applies for a visa also up to 6 months on a single stretch.

[The Station Agent]

My experience here is that consulates now always look for reasons to refuse visa applications. They see it as a challenge. They don't see people, they just assess based on ticking boxes. If one box isn't ticked or there is doubt their reaction is to refuse.

Immigration officers at the port have the applicant standing in front of them and have more opportunity to assess their genuine-ness.