Ok, a little bit of a tricky situation here, and I am asking on behalf of a friend of mine.

My friends, who are husband and wife moved from Thailand to the UK almost 2 years ago. He is English and she is Thai. She was granted a settlement visa for 2 years and was in the UK for 8 months before moving to Costa Rica, South America with her husband to start up a business together.

Her settlement visa runs out on the 29th March this year, and they are wondering what their options are regarding her visa status, and what she will need to do prior to and arriving in the UK. They are returning in March.

Hope the scouse is about, as I'm sure he can advise accordingly.

Thanks

Guemlum

The wife can re-enter the UK until such a time as her current visa expires, so that bit's straightforward enough: she doesn't need to obtain another settlement visa before coming back.

Once in the U.K., and the English/citizenship requirement aside, it's unlikely that the wife will qualify for indefinite leave. Consequently, they should make an application to the Home Office for further leave before 29 March, enclosing evidence that they have lived together for the last two years, that they have adequate accommodation and that they have adequate money with which to support themselves. She may then be given a further two years.

If the wife wishes, she can apply for a new settlement visa from Costa Rica but this will cost £500.00 as opposed to the £395.00 which an application to the HO will set them back.

Scouse.

By the way, the above post is on the basis that they are returning to the UK to settle. If they are simply visiting the UK, the wife should apply for a visit visa at the British embassy in Costa Rica (if there is one).

Scouse.

Thanks scouse, I'll forward them the link to this forum so they can read your reply. Thanks again.

Guemlum

I've just checked, and there is a British embassy in Costa Rica, but if your friend's wife decides to apply for a visa, these are sought through the British consulate in New York.

Scouse.