Quote Originally Posted by Nick-and-Ella View Post
This is very helpful as we are still trying to decide where to marry. We have all the CNI business done so we can ger married in PH no problem; (our idea to get married at work in the Caribbean has been cast aside).
I have a couple of questions in relation to the above post:
1. Has anything changed in the time since the original post?
2. How long does the process normally take between the marriage & the visa being granted?
1. Has anything changed in the time since the original post?
Technically some significant changes have been incorporated into UK Immigration Rules.
In principle the consideration issues are about the same.

Solely in terms of costings:-

Fiance(e)
Fiance Visa......£826
FLR(M)1 Visa..........£561
FLR(M)2 Visa..........£561
ILR Visa...........£991

Total..............£2939


Spouse
Spouse Visa......£826
FLR(M) Visa......£561
ILR Visa...........£991

Total..............£2378

In the Fiance(e) route you'll notice there are now 2 FLR(M) applications required.
The first one is made once the Marriage is done and is valid for 30 months after which time a second FLR(M) needs to be made for the next 30 months leading up to ILR
With the spouse visa the initial validity is 33 months with FLR(M) being applied for shorthly before 30 months living in UK
This FLR(M) will be valid for 30months leading to ILR

2. How long does the process normally take between the marriage & the visa being granted?
In connection with the time between Marriage and FLR(M)1 being granted it's unknown. Currently many folks are waiting 6 - 10 months. This may well change in the future, we just don't know.
During this time the spouse remains under the conditions and restrictions of the Fiance(e) visa. Means no work allowed (paid or unpaid) so the long waiting times can become tough both emotionally and financially. However, it's quite possible to make FLR(M) application by personal appearance and thereby get a decision same day. There's is a premium price for this service (currently £867) and it's important that the application is both fully compliant and 'straightforward' with no additional checking needed by back-office caseworkers.

If the question relates to Marriage and Visa decision within Philippines then from Application submission to decision is also variable but generally between 2-3 months. Some may be sooner and some may be longer.

BTW, may I suggest you search for CNI/CENOMAR issues that will inform you of document validity and the process of exchanging UK CNI for local CNI via British Embassy appointment.