Spouse visa - Macedonia and UK

[chocaholic81]

Hi, I have some questions regarding a spouse visa and wondered if anyone could help?

My boyfriend is Macedonian and Im english, we would like to get married at the end of august in Macedonia and in England next October.

I noticed the age for applying for a spouse visa has changed from 18 to 21. Does this have any impact on when you get married or just when you apply for the visa? My boyfriend is 21 at in the middle of august and we would like to get married towards the end of august. I am 27.

When Ive been researching visas it talks of the ESOL course and life in Britain. Does he need to do these once hes here if we apply for ILR?

My last query is to do with the tightening of visa applications being given. What are the chances of us actually being given a spouse visa? We have known each other for four years and have been in touch over that time. Our friendship started by meeting in person and over the years it has progressed until 3 years later we started a relationship. I have met his family and extended family and he will meet mine in a couple of months when we all fly out there. We would have letters of support from both sets of parents, his church who know me well and have worked with me whenever ive been out there and my church here who have been part of the process, as well as letters from ourselves. We have photos, emails, msn conversations, gifts, letters etc all dating back over the four years. And obviously by then we would have a wedding certificate too.

Thank you for your help!

[vinny]

The age requirement will be applicable when they make the decision on his application.

He has to satisfy the KOL requirements before applying for SET(M).

See also 13.5 - Spouses/civil partners and how they qualify.