How long does a UK visa application take?

Standard processing times are typically 3-8 weeks for most visa types when applying from outside the UK. Applications made within the UK can take longer. Priority services are available for some visa types, reducing processing to 5 working days or sometimes 24 hours, for an additional fee.

What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) gives you access to the NHS during your stay. It's currently £1,035 per year for most visa applicants, or £776 for students and Youth Mobility Scheme applicants. It's paid upfront for the entire duration of your visa.

Can I switch between visa categories while in the UK?

Some visa categories allow switching (for example, from Student to Skilled Worker), while others don't. Visitors generally cannot switch to most other visas and must leave the UK to apply. The rules on switching are complex, so check the specific requirements for your situation.

What happens if my visa application is refused?

If refused, you'll receive a letter explaining why. Depending on the visa type and grounds for refusal, you may be able to ask for an administrative review, appeal to a tribunal, or submit a fresh application addressing the issues raised. An immigration solicitor can advise on the best course of action.

How long before I can apply for indefinite leave to remain?

Most routes to indefinite leave to remain (settlement) require five years of continuous residence in the UK on a qualifying visa. Some routes, like certain family visas, have different timescales. You must meet specific requirements including continuous residence, English language ability, and the Life in the UK test.

Complete Guide to UK Immigration and Visas | The Solicitor Directory

UK Immigration System Overview

The UK operates a points-based immigration system for people coming from outside the Common Travel Area (Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man). Since Brexit, EU citizens are also subject to this system unless they have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

The points-based system has several routes, each with specific requirements. Work routes include the Skilled Worker visa and Global Talent visa. Study routes include Student visas and Graduate visas. Family routes allow joining relatives who are British citizens or settled in the UK. There are also routes for visitors, investors, and those seeking protection.

Understanding which route applies to you is the first step. Each has different requirements for points (where applicable), English language ability, maintenance funds, and supporting documents. The rules change frequently, so it's important to check current requirements or seek professional advice before applying.

Work Visas

The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for coming to the UK for employment. You need a job offer from a licensed sponsor employer, and the job must meet minimum skill and salary requirements. The general salary threshold is £38,700, though lower thresholds apply for certain occupations and new entrants to the job market.

You earn points for having a job offer from an approved sponsor, meeting the skill level requirement, speaking English to the required level, and meeting the salary requirement. Some points are tradeable - for example, having a PhD relevant to the job can offset a lower salary.

Other work routes include the Global Talent visa for leaders or potential leaders in academia, arts, or digital technology, the Scale-up visa for those joining fast-growing businesses, and the Youth Mobility Scheme for citizens of certain countries aged 18-30. Each has specific requirements and conditions.

Family Visas

Family visas allow you to join close family members who are British citizens or settled in the UK. The most common is the spouse or partner visa, which has strict requirements including a minimum income threshold (currently £29,000, rising to £38,700), English language ability, and suitable accommodation.

The financial requirement can be met through employment income, non-employment income, cash savings, or a combination. If you have children, the threshold doesn't increase, but the requirement must still be met. Self-employment income and pension income can also count, though the rules for calculating these are complex.

Adult dependent relatives can apply to join family in the UK, but this is one of the most difficult applications to succeed with. You must show you need long-term personal care due to illness, disability, or age, and that this care cannot be obtained in your home country, even with financial help from your UK family.

Student and Graduate Visas

The Student visa is for those who have been offered a place on a course with a licensed student sponsor. You must show you can pay your course fees and support yourself (maintenance funds), have consent from your parents if you're under 18, and meet English language requirements.

International students can work during their studies (usually up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays). Your sponsor must have a valid sponsor licence, and you must have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from them.

After completing an eligible degree, you can switch to a Graduate visa, allowing you to stay and work in the UK for two years (three years for PhD holders). The Graduate visa doesn't require a job offer or sponsor, giving you time to find skilled employment that could lead to a Skilled Worker visa.

The Application Process

Most visa applications are made online through the UK government website. You'll need to create an account, complete the application form, pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and book an appointment to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).

Supporting documents vary by visa type but commonly include your passport, proof of English language ability, financial evidence, and documents specific to your application (such as a job offer letter or marriage certificate). Documents not in English must be translated by a certified translator.

Processing times vary by visa type and whether you pay for priority services. Standard processing for most visas is up to eight weeks for applications made outside the UK. Some routes offer priority or super-priority services for an additional fee. Applications made within the UK for visa extensions or switches may take longer.

When to Use an Immigration Solicitor

While straightforward visa applications can be made without legal help, an immigration solicitor adds value in many situations. Complex cases, previous refusals, overstaying, or criminal convictions all benefit from professional advice. Solicitors can also help you understand which route is best for your circumstances.

Immigration solicitors can identify potential problems before you apply, help gather and present evidence effectively, and ensure your application meets all requirements. If things go wrong, they can advise on appeals or alternative options. The cost of professional help is often worthwhile given the consequences of a refused application.

When choosing an immigration solicitor, ensure they are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) or the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC). Be wary of unregulated advisers, who are not legally permitted to give immigration advice except in limited circumstances. Check reviews and ask about their experience with your type of application.