Applying for a European visa for non-EU spouse

[arts99]

Hello,

Can the one in the know share their knowledge and experience; which European country will be the easiest to get visa for from Pakistan for the spouse of a British national who got married in Pakistan to a Pakistani national. The objective will be to later on follow the Surinder Singh route after 3-6 months stay in that country.

Has anyone applied to the Spanish, Greece or Romanian embassies in Pakistan for such a visa?

Thank you

[Casa]

Have you considered how easily you and your wife will be able to integrate into local life in the country you select for the SS route? Unemployment levels are exceptionally high in all three countries that you've mentioned and without a good knowledge of the language it will be even more difficult to secure work. 3-6 months may be too short to prove you have moved the 'centre of your life' to the EU state before returning to the UK.

[arts99]

Thank you for responding.

Work will not be an issue and we intend to travel and explore Europe while keeping base preferably in Spain.

Thank you

[Casa]

In order for SS to succeed you will have to show that you are 'exercising your Treaty rights' through employment or study. 'Exploring Europe' won't qualify and will be considered to be a lengthy holiday and keeping a base (in Spain or elsewhere while you travel) won't be sufficient to prove you've moved the centre of your life there.
You will require a tenancy contract, register with the local authorities, pay tax in the EU state. You will not be able to continue to maintain a home in the UK during this time abroad.
You need to be aware that the HO are tightening this route, forcing many applicants to go to a court appeal

[noajthan]

Thank you for responding.

Work will not be an issue and we intend to travel and explore Europe while keeping base preferably in Spain.

Thank you

This may help you get up to speed on free movement:
http://ec.europa.eu/justice/citizen/doc ... 013_en.pdf

It is 'free' as in 'free speech' not as in 'free holiday'
(otherwise wouldn't we all be doing it)