Our client who is a French national residing in Luxembourg, had previously submitted two applications for permission to live in the UK. The first application, under the EU Settlement Scheme, was submitted in March 2021, and the second application, under Appendix FM, was submitted in December 2024. Both applications were completed by the applicant himself and were subsequently refused. Following these refusals, the applicant instructed us on 20 January 2025 to prepare and submit a fresh application on his behalf.

The applicant’s spouse was granted settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme has been residing in the UK since September 2016. The couple first met in 2017 in the USA while they were both students. They maintained regular communication and never lost contact, leading to the start of their relationship in 2019.  Appendix FM rules are complex, making it difficult for many applicants to understand and comply with the necessary requirements. To avoid another refusal, we ensured that all required evidence was carefully gathered and presented to demonstrate that the applicant met the requirements for entry clearance as a partner.

To strengthen the application, we:

Since the applicant and spouse communicated in French, we advised translating key documents, such as the marriage certificate, into English. However, we explained that translating extensive WhatsApp conversations would not be necessary. We also  included other evidence such as flight tickets, gift receipts (which were in English), and photographs to substantiate their genuine relationship. The applicant had an important job interview in the UK in two weeks and requested an expedited process. To accommodate his request, we completed the application in less than a week. After the applicant reviewed the final application form, we submitted it via priority service. We uploaded all required evidence on the portal, and the applicant attended his biometrics appointment the next business day.

Chronology of Events:

This case highlights the importance of understanding immigration rules, submitting comprehensive supporting evidence, and ensuring compliance with all documentation requirements to secure a successful outcome.