My Thai gf is coming to the UK on 2nd May 2008 to stay with me for 6 months as she did last year.

We applied for her Visa at VFA in Bangkok and asked for it to be dated to start 25th April 2008 as originally this is the date I wanted her to fly here.

Now I want her to come 2nd May as that's when my own house becomes free again, when the tenants will be moving out.

If she flies on the 2nd May will her 180 days start from the day she lands in London the same as it works with our Visas when we go to Thailand, or will it start from the 25th April ?

My Thai visas always have a start date on them but the Visa actually starts when I land in BKK (i.e. my 60 day Tourist). I have been told that a Thais Visitor Visa to the Uk begins from the Visa validity date whether they come on that date or later.

I have to have an op. in October before we go back to Thailand for Winter and it'd be useful if she gets that extra week here at the end by coming a week later, otherwise she'll have to fly back before me, whilst I'm in the hossie.

Hope someone knows the answer

See also 1.3 - Validity of entry clearance and leave to enter and 10.2 - Requirements for a visitor under the Rules. Her 180 days will start on the day that she arrives. However, she will have to leave before her visa expires, unless she applies for an extension.