Maintaining ILR

[WooHoo]

My wife is returning to the UK having been out of the country for just over twelve months. However, we're only returning for a three-week holiday.

We'd really like for her to be able to keep her ILR status, but we have no immediate intention of returning to the UK permanently. But we might after about 5 years or so.

Given the above, what would you advise her to say to the immigration people when she returns. I mean, should she say she has come back to live or should she state the truth?

We don't really mind lying to Immigration because we've already paid 'em a thousand quid to issue a visa.

[peppekalle]

Lying is not an option she has to be honest.She might get caught out.If her country allows i suggest she applies for naturalization.

Why was she away for a whole year ?

[Casa]

British Citizenship won't be an option if the spouse is unable to meet the residence criteria...no more than 90 days absence from the UK in the 12 months prior to submitting the application.

[WooHoo]

Thanks for your replies.

She doesn't want UK citizenship because it would mean formally giving up her original nationality.

Maybe we'll just tell the truth and see what happens whenever we do need to re-settle in the UK. The fact she has significant funds in the UK, a British husband and a British child would hopefully inform the Immigration people that has maintained links to the UK - or whatever vague jargon it is that they use.