How do I apply for a Visa for My Girlfriend/Fiancee/Wife!

[Patienceman]

Hi All
Sorry for the amateur subject but this is all new to me. I am located in N.Ireland (UK) and met my Girlfriend from Malaysia here 2 years ago while she was on holiday in Dublin. Since then both us have been travelling to and fro from Northern Ireland to Malaysia. I go out there again in January next year for a month and get engaged while there and then go out again In August next year to get married in Malaysia. After this we plan for her to come back to N.Ireland. I'm not so sure what I need to do here so that things run smoothly and there is no problems then. Should I get the ball rolling now?I heard everyting can be quite a long process What forms do I need for her ? Any forseeable problems ( I have enough evidence to show we have been in a relationship fora while ). Any pointers and help would be much appreciated ! This is proving to be a very expensive relationship! I just dont know where to start, should I wait till we are engaged before applying ?

[ppron747]

I think you need to look at www.ukvisas.gov.uk to start with...

There's a useful mini-form to complete on the "Do I need a visa?" link. From the plan described in your post, it won't be a question of waiting until you're engaged before applying, as you suggest; if you're getting married before your girlfriend comes here to settle, you should wait until you're married, and then she should apply for a visa as the spouse of a British citizen - assuming that you are a BC - you haven't said...

[Patienceman]

Thanks for your answer Paul.

I'll have a good look at the website. Being in N.Ireland I am the holder of a British and an Irish Passport. My British passport has just expired last month. I dont know if this will make the whle process anymore complex or benefit me in anyway. I can always renew my British passort if I have to show this ?