I am a UKc and have been dating a USc for two years and a month. We met while I studied a year abroad in the US. She has visited the UK on three trips, and I have visited the US (in addition to my study) over Christmas '10 and worked on a J1 Visa in the summer where we worked together. We're planning to apply for the UK fiance visa with her to settle in the UK.

We have clocked over the last two years ten months time spent actually together, we have conversations, phone receipts, photos, pay slips and plane tickets. She holds a Bsci in Psyc and I hold a Master of Physics. I am working as a support worker earning £14,000 a year while I apply for graduate jobs. She is working as a waitress earning minimum wage. We plan to live in my parents house until we get settled and they will third party sponsor us with a decent amount of cash.

Her family are making it very difficult for her (emotionally) to leave before a summer vacation planned in August else we would have applied. The plan is her coming in March getting engaged and then applying within the 3 month deadline, arriving after the holiday.

If you could help me with questions I'd be greatful!
1. We were looking into getting a lawyer but would like a reliable one please!
2. I understand that we'd have a good chance now but I worry about in April when changes come in. I can't find any cover on third party sponsor!
3. How long is the window they give on a Fiance visa for her to enter the country? We would apply earlier for peace of mind and have her fly over in August if the window is big enough.

Thanks!

 

The UK government ordered a review on policy November 2011 with changes potentially taking place in April. The review (whilst stating that it would result in 2/3 rds of applications been rejected) questioned the current 'independent of state means' clause which stands at a salary of £6,000 ish, saying the average household of two lives on £24,000. There was no mention on third party sponsorship. Its not policy and the review did not imply this should be however it makes for some worrying reading for younger couples.