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[Busta Nut]

I don't know if this is common knowledge but I found out today that the UK Border Agency (immigration) are considering making changes to the rules for "Family Migration" to the UK.

This will affect those of us wanting to bring a Thai wife/partner/fiancee to the UK to live.

They are proposing changes in relation to:

• Sponsors. They are thinking of implementing a "minimum income threshold". Everyone one would have to satisfy immigration that they earn a certain salary.
  
• English language test for Thai lady. They are considering raising the tests levels to show the lady has an understanding of every day english
  
• Probationary periods. A proposed increase from 2 years to 5 years before the lady can apply for permanent residence.
  
• People married or in a relationship for more than 4 years before entering the UK. They are considering the introduction of a 5 year probationary period.

These are only proposals/suggestions but the changes, once decided upon, will be implemented as soon as APRIL 2012.

Detailed information is on ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk. Search under family migration consultation.

I've tried, several times, to post a link to this website but I've had technical problems with my computer To the point where I wanted to throw it off the balcony lol.

I'm surprised there hasn't been mention of this already on the forum???? If there has been, please feel free to correct me and update what you know. These changes have massive implications.

[7-Eleven]

Here's the link.

I think that it's important to keep in mind that these changes will affect applications from all over the world and not just applications from Thailand.

Immigration is a difficult subject to deal with and the government is always under pressure to make immigration tougher especially given the state of the financial world.

As far as I am aware a settlement visa to the UK costs in the region of £800.  Why isn't the appeals process being covered by this fee as opposed to the tax payer as they state they are trying to reduce the burden on the tax payer by removing the right of appeal in some cases.

If I had paid £800 and had an application incorrectly refused I should be entitled to appeal the decision end of!