The reason for the post is rather I'm aware of how long an 'adult' can stay on a tourist visa bur wondered if he could piggy back if he wished to stay for longer (1 or 2 years), without having to do the visa runs etc.
It's down to the discretion of the immigration officer. I had no problem doing that. Get a bank statement showing the transfer from your account to your wifes 'If' they ask. I used World Remit and would of used that as proof if I was asked.