Having only recently been diagnosed with T4 prostrate cancer , I was wondering if that could in any way circumvent - or at least be viewed more kindly/compassionately - the laborious application of obtaining a 3, or 6 month tourist visa for my 45 year old , long-term g.f ? Thanks

The application might get compassionate treatment in that it will possibly dealt with quicker ( depending on the circumstances ). But the criteria for qualifying for a visit visa will, unfortunately, remain much the same. To be honest, the ECO may look at it more closely, in that he must be be satisfied that your girlfriend will leave the UK at the end of her visit even if your condition has worsened. He could easily take the view that she might not want to leave you, or that you might not want her to leave.

That said, the application will depend entirely on your, and your girlfriend's circumstances. If you believe that your situation is going to require that your girlfriend is with you in the UK, then maybe you should consider a settlement visa for her ? Visit visas will limit her ability to travel to the UK to be with you,as I'm sure you are aware.

A bit more information is required. Where are you? Where is she? Are you normally resident in Thailand?

Tourist visas are not that difficult to apply for and are issued quite quickly.

What are your plans for treatment? Thailand or the UK?

Visa can rarely be circumvented legally but compassionate processing can happen. Most things are possible!

Good luck!

Edit: As always Tony M's advice is good! Settlement may be more appropriate if the plan is to return to the UK for treatment. Perhaps another one for professional advice!

Edited June 7, 201313 yr by bobrussell

A bit more information is required. Where are you? Where is she? Are you normally resident in Thailand?

Yes , Bob, Everything will be in the UK . I suppose that I'll just apply for the visa as normal and perhaps put exceptional circumstances ?

Here very recently the British abolished appeals. They said that an appeal can take up to 8 months. They say if a visa is turned down just reapply.

don't know if that will help but thought I would mention it. One never knows. Even in Merry old England one person can see some things in a different light than the fellow sitting right next to him.