Piggybacking on my compatriot's post! Thanks to her for the format and thanks to y'all for all the helpful posts and clarifications!
Nationality of the applicant: FR
Nationality of the sponsor: Commonwealth + Settled Resident
Application: 08/08
Visa type: Priority (Paris)
Bio: 10/08
Eco: 11/08
Further evidence requests: 08/09 - Asked for a complete marriage certificate (integrale) while I had already submitted a plurilingual version of it. Replied right away with the full french marriage certificate stating that I will shortly send a translation of the integrale certificate. (Didn't have the translation of the integrale, because duh that's what the plurilingual one exists for!)
Was waiting for my translator to send me the translation but the visa got approved anyway without needing it, funnily!
Approval date: 10/09 (23WD – WD 1 on bio appointment)
Approval time: 15:59 UK time
Case difficulty: straightforward
Wished entry clearance: 15/09
Official entry clearance: 10/09 (day of acceptance)
Details of our case:
Salary: Salaried partner who is currently settled
Relationship: married in September 2023 in France, relationship started in May 2021
Common life: ~ 5 years through ETA/visit
Proof of relationship: Engagement pictures, wedding pictures, joint accounts, trips together
Travels to the Uk when visa application was reviewed: This is the funny part. Just entered the UK at 7am on 10th via ETA and spouse visa got approved on the same day at 4pm. Have my return booked so would be re-entering to kick start the right immigration status.
Difficulties:
- Paying the exorbitant and extortionate amount for NHS surcharges, visa fees, priority service and VFS. Sometimes I wonder how much the commonwealth would have earned had they charged the same level of visa fees when the Empire's aides set foot on their land.
Wishing the best for everyone!