Returning to Albion with my Chinese wife

[rvynmvn]

Hello all,

I've checked the forum and seen some posts on this topic but just want to make sure I'm correct in all of my thinking as based on the most up to date information.

In 12-14 months I will be returning to England after nearly a decade in China.

AFAIK she requires the following for a smooth visa application:

- My passport (valid for another 7 1/2 years)
- Her passport (hers is valid for another 5 years)
- Marriage certificate (this is in a Chinese red book style, we would need to have this translated and notarised?)
- An English language certificate (she has a bachelor's degree from a BRITISH university, so this is not required)
- A history of our relationship - how do I present this? We have been together for 7+ years, travelled to 20+ countries together, been to England together 6 times, have lived with each other for the full duration of this time. What's the best way to format this 'relationship evidence'?
- There is conflicting advice about needing a criminal history record check? Does she require one?


This is all - relatively - straightforward, where it gets more complex is the financial element. We are semi-retiring and we work in a freelance dominated industry, but we are both salaried employees of my company. Myself on a wage of around 1,500 GBP per month and my wife on around 700GBP a month. As we take dividends we don't really use this for anything other than paying tax and contributing so social security.

We have cash savings well above the 16,000GBP but it is either in my business account or investment account - are these eligible for proof of savings? I would rather not move 16,000GBP to a no-interest current account. These are also all in MY name, but it seems like this should be fine?

If necessary we can alter her salary or move money to her account, but it would be an unnecessary headache if not mandatory.

If there's anything I'm overlooking please feel free to let me know, every question I've put in bold so those who won't want to read an essay can just see what I'm asking.

Appreciate everyone's help!

[vinny]

I believe they expect the funds relied upon to be in personal accounts. They may consider a business account to belong to a separate entity, which may be problematic.

The more savings you have for a period of at least six months will lessen the need for income. For example, if there are no non-British dependant children, then savings of £62,500 is sufficient to satisfy a spouse’s financial requirements for entry clearance and further leave to remain. Less savings is required for ILR.