What UK visa category?

[Satcommlee]

Hi Experts!

I can't quite decide under what visa category I should apply for my wife to visit the UK for a short holiday.

I'm British and have lived in Thailand for about 9 years - the last 3 of which I have been 100% legal with a work permit, paying Thai tax and earning a very high salary, even by UK standards.

I have a 4 year old son (with my wife) who was registered at the Embassy but I've not got his passport yet - but that's a no-brainer can get that sorted easy enough..

I have been legally married (at amphur) for 4 years.

We built a house upcountry and the Tabien Bann is in her name, but she doesn't work - I am the bread winner so to speak.

Family visit seem the obvious choice except that I am not living in UK, although I have parents who are pensioners back in the UK.

The Wife cant really show much in the way of income as I wear the trousers in this house :-)

I'm sure I shouldn't need one of these so-called visa consultants but if anyone can give me a nudge in the right direction that would be very much appreciated..

Family Visit or General Visit visa?

Thanks in advance..

[PeeJay1959]

Family visit visa.

[Satcommlee]

Thanks PeeJay...

I was worried that my parents would need to be in a position to sponsor her, so to speak... which I think they may not meet the income requirement or guarantees..

I can meet the income requirements but I am not living in the UK.

Just to add...

I'm happy to apply for a 10 year visa - but will it ring alarm bells? I'd rather hand over the 700 odd quid to avoid similar hassle in the future..

[beano2274]

a 10 year visa might be difficult to get first time around, try the normal family visa then progress from there

[theoldgit]

The General and Family Visit Visas require the same burden of proof and since the abolition of the right of appeal for Family Visit Visas there is no advantage of one over the other.

There are no income levels to meet, if your wife can present evidence to convince the ECO the trip is genuine, affordable and that she is likely to return then a visa will be issued. Your relationship, life and ties to Thailand should be sufficient to convince the ECO that she is likely to return.

I agree with Beano that it's highly unlikely that a ten year visit visa would be issued on the first application. Long term visit visas are meant for those who can demonstrate a need to visit on a regular basis and have a history of regular visits. My partner had two six month visas before she applied for a two year visa.

I agree with you that it probably wouldn't be necessary to use an agent in your wife's position, a decent agent would advise just that.

[7by7]

If you and/or your wife can show that you can afford the visit then there is no need for your parents to offer any form of financial help .

However, assuming you will be staying with them, then they should write a letter of invitation in which they describe their property and who lives there to show that there is room for you.

I agree with Beano and theoldgit; if this is your wife's first application it is extremely unlikely that she will be granted a 10 year visa. Remember, if she applies for a long term visit visa and the ECO decides to grant a shorter term one then there is no appeal against this and no refund of the difference in the fees!

You may find UK visit visa basics helpful.