Question 1

How do I know which visa or immigration route is right for me?

Accepted Answer

The right route depends on your personal circumstances — your nationality, your relationship to the UK, your purpose for coming or staying, and your long-term plans. The best first step is a consultation with one of our specialists, who will assess your situation and explain the best legal support we can offer.

Question 2

What happens in an initial consultation?

Accepted Answer

In your first consultation, we will listen to your situation, review any relevant documents you bring, and give you an honest assessment of the legal support we can offer. We will also explain our fees and what the process involves. There is no obligation to proceed.

Question 3

How long does an immigration application typically take?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary significantly depending on the type of application and the Home Office's current workload. Some applications are decided within days; others can take many months. We will give you a realistic timeframe based on the type of application that is relevant to you.

Question 4

My visa application was refused. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

A refusal is not necessarily the end. Depending on the type of application and the reasons for refusal, you may be able to appeal to the Immigration Tribunal, request an administrative review, or submit a fresh application. Book an initial consultation to understand the best steps following a refusal.

Question 5

Can I apply for a visa if I have previously overstayed in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Previous overstaying can affect your eligibility for certain visas and may result in a ban on re-entry. However, the impact depends on the length of the overstay and the visa category you are applying for.

Question 6

How can I bring my spouse or partner to the UK?

Accepted Answer

To sponsor a spouse or partner, you generally need to meet a minimum income threshold, demonstrate a genuine relationship, and satisfy English language requirements. The rules are detailed and the application requires careful preparation. We give legal support on spouse and partner visa applications regularly.

Question 7

When can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain?

Accepted Answer

The qualifying period for ILR depends on your immigration route — typically five years for most routes, but shorter for some. You must also meet continuous residence requirements and pass the Life in the UK test.

Question 8

How long after ILR can I apply for British citizenship?

Accepted Answer

You can generally apply for naturalisation as a British citizen one year after being granted ILR, provided you meet the other requirements including continuous residence, good character, and language ability. We give legal support on the full citizenship journey from ILR onwards.

Question 9

What is the difference between asylum and humanitarian protection?

Accepted Answer

Asylum is granted to those who qualify as refugees under the 1951 Refugee Convention — meaning they face persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group. Humanitarian protection is granted to those who face a real risk of serious harm but do not meet the full refugee definition. Both provide protection and a route to settlement.

Question 10

Can I work while my asylum claim is being decided?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, asylum seekers are not permitted to work while their claim is being considered. However, if your claim has been outstanding for 12 months or more through no fault of your own, you may be able to apply for permission to work in certain shortage occupations.

Answers to common immigration questions.

Getting started

Visa applications

Family and settlement

Asylum and protection

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