If you are faced with the challenge of applying for a UK visa, visa extension, sponsor licence, permanent settlement, or citizenship, or if your application has been refused, you may be asking yourself, ‘it is time to hire an immigration Solicitor’? Of course, as immigration lawyers ourselves, you would expect us to say ‘yes’. If you have a very simple application, you have plenty of time, you understand the immigration rules, and the outcome is not critical, then it may be a feasible option to apply yourself. The reality is, however, that most people and businesses are not in this position. Engaging a UK immigration lawyer makes sense for a number of solid reasons, as we will explain in this article.
Reason 1: The refusal rates for UK visas are extremely high for some categories
Thousands of visa and other immigration applications are refused each year for a variety of reasons, including mistakes made and ineligibility. For example, in March 2024, UK visitor visa rejection rates were 21% for all nationalities applying, according to the Home Office. Visitor visa application refusals are disproportionately higher for some nationals of some countries, including Algeria at 71%, Bangladesh at 53%, and Ghana, Pakistan and Nigeria, with rejection rates of between 30% and 46%.
UK immigration lawyers understand the reasons for refusal and will spot any problems before applying. This avoids any waste of time and money submitting an application that has little chance of success. If we find an issue which may provide grounds for refusal, we will recommend the best course of action (e.g. by drafting a detailed cover letter with the application, delaying the application, applying for a different type of visa, or gathering additional evidence).
Reason 2: Dealing with the Home Office can be stressful
Dealing with the Home Office can be stressful for anyone who is unfamiliar with the visa application rules and processes. Indeed, many visa and settlement applicants underestimate the stress that comes with making an application and dealing with the Home Office. Visa applications can be stressful for a number of reasons, including:
- Application forms are often lengthy and confusing, and it is all too easy to use the wrong application form
- There is a strict application process
- The eligibility rules can be confusing. For example, many people believe they meet the financial or continuous residence requirements when they do not.
- Visa applications come with a range of additional requirements. For example, if you are applying for an Innovator Founder visa, you must get an endorsement from an approved body in the UK. Likewise, if you are applying for a sponsor licence, you need to implement systems and processes within your business to satisfy the Home Office so that you can sponsor overseas workers.
- Gathering the documents and evidence needed to support an application can take considerable time, especially since they need to be requested from different sources and translated and
- If the Home Office are not satisfied that they have sufficient information to make a decision, they may request an interview or additional information once your application has been submitted.
An immigration solicitor will deal with all aspects of your application, so you don’t have to do so. In addition, if the Home Office have any questions, we will answer them on your behalf. By engaging an immigration Solicitor, the stress, inconvenience, and uncertainty of making an immigration application is removed, allowing you to focus on other matters, such as finding a job, a place to live, and a school for your children.
Reason 3: Immigration law is complex
While the Home Office publishes a summary of its rules and requirements online, there are a whole host of immigration rules and guidance documents. These documents explain how UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) staff are required to assess visa applications down to the finest details. As the old saying goes, “The devil is in the detail”. In order to make an application for a visa or settlement that will be approved, it is essential to understand all of these rules and regulations. Immigration lawyers train for many years to understand the finest nuances of the immigration rules. They will only ever allow an application to be submitted that meets the rules and will satisfy the guidance used by UKVI staff.
Another consideration is that immigration law is constantly changing. Immigration Solicitors understand the upcoming changes and will either recommend that your application be submitted by a certain date or change your application to meet the new requirements.
Reason 4: Time and convenience
Engaging a UK immigration lawyer will save you significant time when navigating the often complex and detailed requirements of immigration applications. The process of gathering the necessary documentation, understanding the legal criteria, and ensuring that every detail is accurately addressed can be time-consuming. An experienced solicitor will deal with all of these tasks on your behalf, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your life and provide confidence that your application is being handled with expertise.
Reason 5: Support and reassurance
UK immigration lawyers provide a great deal of support throughout the entire immigration process. This support is provided not just in the initial application but also when it comes to extending a visa, switching to a different type of visa, or applying for permanent settlement and citizenship. Your solicitor will offer tailored advice, help you understand your situation and options, and guide you through each step, ensuring that you meet all legal requirements. Their support can also extend beyond the application itself, assisting with any queries or concerns you might have and offering reassurance during what can be a stressful and uncertain time. With their expertise, you can navigate the immigration process with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Final words
Immigration Solicitors are there to give you peace of mind that your visa, settlement or other immigration application has the best chance of success. Whether you are an individual, family, or business, we will support you at each step of the way. Having seen thousands of applications processed by the Home Office, we will immediately understand the chance of success of your case and do everything possible to swing the odds in your favour. In addition, we often recommend options that applicants have never considered. Such options may lead to a faster decision, more favourable benefits, or even a faster route to settlement. The self-sponsorship route, for example, allows overseas consultants and business people to work in the UK by working for themselves, removing the need to apply for sponsorship. It also provides a faster route to permanent settlement.
So why engage an immigration lawyer? Ultimately, you will have the peace of mind and confidence of knowing that your UK immigration matter is being taken care of, whether for you, your family, or your business.
A Y & J Solicitors is a specialist immigration law firm with extensive experience with all types of visa applications. We have an in-depth understanding of immigration law and are professional and results-focused. For assistance with your visa application or any other UK immigration law concerns, please contact us on +44 20 7404 7933 or contact us today. We’re here to help!
