Accomodation for spouse visa

[actuary]

Hi,

I am going to apply for my wife's visa in mid-feb. Is it a requirement that I need to have a place rented out (and contract as proof) before I apply for her visa or is it ok to prove (with an agreement) that I have rented a place which would be available before I travel back. E.g

If i apply for spouse visa on 15th Feb, and hope to travel back on 15th March. Can I start my new apartment contract from 2nd March (proving that I will have a place for us before we come back to UK) or the contract needs to be starting from a date before I apply?

Sorry for the confusion

Thanks!

[vinny]

If i apply for spouse visa on 15th Feb, and hope to travel back on 15th March. Can I start my new apartment contract from 2nd March (proving that I will have a place for us before we come back to UK) or the contract needs to be starting from a date before I apply?

The ECO should be satisfied that the accommodation offered is genuinely available to an applicant (and dependants if appropriate), e.g. the owner of the accommodation has given permission.

I think that it would be okay to show that the apartment will be available from 2nd March, or even 15 March, if she is going to arrival then.