Applying for a UK visa
Most immigration matters begin with an application to the Home Office, whether that is a visa to visit, work, study or join family, or an application to extend the leave you already have. The rules set out who qualifies and what evidence is needed, and the detail matters. We help you choose the right route, prepare your application and supporting documents, and present your case as clearly and fully as we can.
Family and spouse visas
Many people come to us because they want to be with their family in the UK. We advise partners and spouses, fiancés and fiancées, parents, children and other family members on the requirements that apply, including the financial and relationship requirements, and help you gather the evidence to support the application. We also advise on extending family visas and moving towards settlement.
Work visas and sponsor licences
Work routes such as the Skilled Worker visa usually need a sponsoring employer and have their own requirements around the job, the salary and English language. We advise both employees and employers, including businesses that need a sponsor licence to employ overseas workers, and we explain the duties that come with being a sponsor.
Student visas
If you are coming to study, the Student visa has requirements around your course, your sponsoring institution and your finances. We help students and their families understand what is needed, prepare the application, and deal with any questions the Home Office raises.
Settlement and indefinite leave to remain
Over time, many people qualify to settle in the UK. We advise on further leave to remain (FLR), indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and long residence, on when you become eligible, and on the continuous residence and other requirements you need to meet. Settlement is often the step before applying for British citizenship.
British citizenship and naturalisation
Becoming a British citizen, usually through naturalisation or registration, has its own conditions, including residence, good character and, in most cases, the Life in the UK test. We help you check whether you qualify and prepare your application, and we also advise on UK Ancestry and other routes based on family connections.
Immigration appeals and the First-tier Tribunal
If an application is refused, you may be able to challenge the decision by administrative review, a fresh application, or an appeal to the First-tier Tribunal, and onward to the Upper Tribunal where appropriate. We advise on your options and the realistic prospects, help with human rights claims, including where you are facing removal from the UK, and deal with the Home Office and the tribunal on your behalf.
When to speak to an immigration solicitor
It is worth taking advice early, before your current leave runs out, before you submit an application, or as soon as you receive a decision you want to challenge, because immigration deadlines can be short and the rules change often. Whatever your situation, we will tell you honestly where you stand and explain the options open to you.