Navigate the UK immigration system clearly and confidently

Fees vary significantly by route and location of application. As a guide: a Skilled Worker visa (outside UK, up to 3 years) costs £769; a Family visa £1,846; a Student visa £363 (from outside UK). Most applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (currently £1,035 per year), which gives access to NHS services. Fees are subject to frequent increases, so always check the current fee on GOV.UK before applying.

No. A Standard Visitor visa prohibits working in the UK in almost all circumstances. Narrow permitted activities include attending business meetings, conferences, or training as an employee of an overseas company, and some permitted paid engagements under the Permitted Paid Engagement route. Breaching visitor visa conditions is treated seriously and can affect future immigration applications.

Since April 2024, the general salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa is £38,700 per year, or the going rate for the specific occupation code (whichever is higher). Lower thresholds apply for shortage occupation roles, new entrants (under 26, recent graduates, or switching from a student visa), and some health and care roles. The rules changed significantly in early 2024, so always verify current thresholds before applying.

Most people qualify for ILR after five continuous years of lawful residence in the UK in a qualifying immigration route. You must not have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12-month period, must not have any serious criminality, must meet an English language requirement, and must pass the Life in the UK Test. The application fee is currently £2,885.

Your options depend on the type of decision and route. You may be able to request an Administrative Review (for in-country decisions on certain routes) or appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber). Visitor visas are generally not appealable, though you can ask for an administrative review. Time limits are strict — typically 14 or 28 days from the decision. Take professional advice from an OISC-registered adviser or solicitor as quickly as possible.