Why are the visa rules so different for spouses of British and EU citizens? Shouldn’t they be the same? And why is it harder under UK law than under EU law?

By 1st 4Immigration - #1 UK Immigration Experts -
Time and time again we have clients asking us about visas for their foreign spouses and partners, very often relying on the information from the friends who have been through this process before. Naturally,  many assume the rules for them will be the same.

One of the major differences is application process for spouses of UK citizens, compared to the spouses of EEA (non-UK) citizens. This is because spouses of UK citizens have to apply under the UK law (UK Immigration Rules) whilst spouses of EEA citizens – under the EU law (EEA Regulations).  

We have a good earlier post explaining why British citizens can’t be considered as EEA citizens for this purpose and the only exception when they can be (Surinder Singh route): http://1st4immigration-visas.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/surinder-singh-route-for-spouses-and.html

For an individual advice or to make an application please contact us: info@1st4immigration.com or visit www.1st4immigration.com

If you are an Immigration Adviser or a Solicitor please visit our immigration Training and CPD website: www.1st4immigration.com/training

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