Hi,

Does anybody know the answer: If you have a valid UK visitor visa (6 months and currently in the UK) is it possible to come back to Thailand before the end of that 6 months and apply for a settlement visa (as a spouse)- even though the visitor visa is still valid??

Thanks in advance......

Marko

Hi Marko,

Yes, and there will be no adverse effects either. Alternatively, submit the settlement application by post from the UK and request an interview date for a time when you know the applicant will be back in Thailand.

Cheers,

Scouse.

Cheers Scouse.

Is there ever a case where an interview is not required? (She didn't need one for the visitor visa)

Or are interviews mandentory for settlements visas

Thanks,

Marko

Marko,

If all the supporting documents are submitted with the initial application and if these documents satisfy the ECO that the criteria are met and therefore s/he is "minded to grant" the visa, then the applicant will be contacted and asked to present themselves at the embassy anytime between Monday and Thursday to answer a few questions. This is known as a "short interview." The interview will be held informally at the counter, and usually consists of 5 or 6 questions, The applicant is then either issued with the visa there and then or told to come back later that day or tomorrow to collect it.

If the answers are not consistent with the documents then the "interview" will take longer and, theoretically, could result in refusal.

If no documents are submitted with the application, or if those submitted are insufficient, then the applicant will be given a specific date and time to attend for a full interview. This is held in a private room and could last for up to 45 minutes. Waiting times for full interviews are currently about 12 to 14 weeks.

Moral? Get all your supporting documents sorted and submit them with the initial application!

Or, as Scouse says

submit the settlement application by post from the UK and request an interview date for a time when you know the applicant will be back in Thailand.