I want to bring my spouse from Pakistan to the UK

You will need to make an entry clearance application before travelling.

The application needs to be made on line and will allow you to generate an appointment where the online application with supporting documents needs to be submitted. Gerry’s International is a company that manages the visa application centres for the UK in Pakistan where you will need to submit your completed visa application form, supporting documents and biometric data.

The decision making processes are often referred to another embassy such as in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

There are different types of visas. It is important to make the correct selection depending on your circumstances.

If you are not yet married or in a civil partnership, but plan to do so in the UK, your spouse can apply in one of two ways:

1. As a visitor for the purposes of getting married or entering into a civil partnership, but will have to return after the ceremony.
2. Alternatively you can apply as a fiancé or proposed civil partner. This is a 6 month visa which allows you to remain in the UK, get married during the 6 months and then apply to extend your visa in country as a spouse/ civil partner.

If you are married, you can apply as spouse. You will need to prove several requirements in the rules including:

• Suitability
• Relationship
• Financial and
• English language requirements

For all the applications, there is very specific documentation required which needs to be submitted to prove the above requirements are being met. Failure to provide all the documents may lead to a refusal. The Home Office is soon to implement new legislation that would take away the right of appeal, so failure to ensure the application is made properly, will have severe consequences.

If you require any advice or assistance and want to make sure you maximise your changes of bringing your loved one to the UK, then contact us as soon as possible. Our Immigration Solicitors can assist wherever you are based.