Applying for spouse visa

Thanks for the prompt response ksand24.

Okay I'll note that down. However I'm a bit confused- if they need me to show that we've lived together for me to get the FLR, how can I apply for it now? I've just arrived and plan to marry within a month or so, so my name won't be on anything until then. Will I have to wait a few months before applying for FLR then? Which means I can't start work for at least a few months?

Okay I'll note that down. However I'm a bit confused- if they need me to show that we've lived together for me to get the FLR, how can I apply for it now? I've just arrived and plan to marry within a month or so, so my name won't be on anything until then. Will I have to wait a few months before applying for FLR then? Which means I can't start work for at least a few months?

No, you don't have to wait - if you don't have anything with your name on it, then you just explain that you've only just started living together and don't have anything yet.

However, you should just start getting your name on things ASAP anyway, because it will make things easier in the long run - you don't have to wait until you're married to do it.

You'll need proof of your UK address in order to register with a GP and open a bank account anyway, so I would get your name on bills, lease, council tax etc. as soon as you can (i.e. now), even if you aren't married yet. You can always update your married name on the accounts after the wedding.

Thanks for the prompt response ksand24.

Okay I'll note that down. However I'm a bit confused- if they need me to show that we've lived together for me to get the FLR, how can I apply for it now? I've just arrived and plan to marry within a month or so, so my name won't be on anything until then. Will I have to wait a few months before applying for FLR then? Which means I can't start work for at least a few months?

You do have to wait until after you are married to apply for FLR.  And you have to wait for the FLR to be granted to start working.  I would plan on not working for several months, as neither marrying or FLR are very quick (though there is a same day option for an additional £500).

Do it yourself, but use us.  Promise you won't get rejected.

You can either:

1.  Marry somewhere other than the UK, return to the US and apply for a spousal visa
2.  Return to the US, apply for a fiancé visa, return to the UK, marry, then change to a spouse visa.

@KFdancer: Is it faster/ easier/ cheaper to return to the US to marry and apply for the visa than, say, marry in Denmark, which has no or very low residency requirement?

100% depends on your individual circumstances, flight prices, hotel accommodation costs, etc.  Personally I have lots of places I can stay at in the US for free, but I don't have somewhere to stay for free in a third country.  You would need to decide what's best for you.