Advice on a partner moving to UK from Taiwan

zerog

Visiting is no problem, as long as you demonstrate an understanding of the rules to the immigration officer. To reduce the risk of being bounced, she should get a visitors visa in Taiwan so that she is not at the whim of an immigration officer in the airport. If her visitor's visa has been approved, the only way she can be bounced is if the officer believes her circumstances have changed since applying for that visa. There is no need to enter the UK together, but she should memorise your address and phone number and be able to explain clearly that she knows she cannot work, even for free, and what she intends to do while you are out at work all day. If you do want to enter the UK with her, do not be tempted to answer the questions for her or use your status as a British citizen to influence the questioning. I would suggest that you wait at the airport, and she can tell them to get you if needed.

Unfortunately, the UKBA wants people in your situation to make a quick decision on getting married. If you do decide to get married, I would suggest doing so in Taiwan as you do not need a fiance visa, whereas she does (which is an extra £600, plus up to 6 months wait for in-country switch to spouse visa - usually less than 1 month overseas). Make sure you bring all your documents (payslips, title deed to house) from the UK with you so she can submit the spouse visa application as soon as you get married. Once she has applied, you can then return to the UK (if you can't take too much time off), or wait with her. There is no need to enter the UK with her once she has a spousal visa (except to save time by using the EU queue). A solicitor is not needed for a simple application where you fulfil their financial requirements, especially when applying outside the UK.