UK Immigration Lawyers: Expert Advice On Moving to United Kingdom

Visa-required foreign nationals coming to the UK for less than six months will need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa to enter the country. You may apply for this short-term visa for various purposes, such as:

• Tourism
• Short business trips, e.g., for attending meetings, conferences, or conducting corporate trainings
• Study
• Take up permitted paid engagements
• Medical treatment
• Visiting family or friends settled in the UK, etc.

An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is a digital permission to allow visa-exempt nationals travel to the UK for up to six months. To roll out a more secure and streamlined digital immigration system for visa-exempt foreigners, the UK government announced the implementation of the ETA scheme on 10 September 2024.

Visa-exempt nationals were previously subjected to routine immigration controls at UK borders. With the ETA rollout, they will now have to apply for an ETA before travelling to the UK. Those eligible earlier for an electronic visa waiver scheme, will also now have to apply for an ETA.

To come to the UK for more than six months, you will first have to obtain an eligible visa. Which visa you’ll want to apply for will depend on your own personal circumstances, purpose and suitability. It’s essential that you meet all requirements and conditions for your chosen visa route to be eligible to apply.

If you want to move to the UK for longer than six months, you may apply under any of the following visa categories (as applicable in your situation):

• Work visa
• Business visa
• Family visa
• Study visa

Most long-term UK visas allow the main applicant to bring their eligible family members (usually spouse/partner and children) as their dependants to the UK. Some of these visas also lead to settlement (ILR) in the UK and eventually to British citizenship through naturalisation.

Benefits of Consulting with an Immigration Adviser

Whether you need a short-term visit visa/ETA or a long-term visa, UK immigration application can be a complex and time-consuming process. With increased scrutiny from the Home Office these days, there is often a high chance of an application being refused even for a minor, inadvertent error.

An expert and experienced immigration lawyer ensures that you can get your application right the first time and maximise your chances of being able to move to the UK without any issues.

Our Total Law UK immigration lawyers have helped thousands of applicants successfully move to the UK. Call us on +44 (0) 333 305 9375 for help with your application today. You can also use the online contact form to get in touch.

Overview

Although in most cases, temporary visas cannot be used as a way to immigrate to the UK, it may be possible in some cases.

Below are some of the most common Temporary Work Visas in the UK.

• Charity Worker visa: For individuals who wish to do unpaid voluntary work for a charity
• Creative Worker visa: For people who have been offered work in the UK as a creative worker
• Government Authorised Exchange visa: For those who wish to come to the UK for short-term work experience, do research or a fellowship. Applicants must have a sponsor
• International Agreement visa: This visa is for those coming to the UK for the purposes of temporary work covered under international law or treaty
• Religious Worker visa: Religious workers are those who wish to undertake religious work in a non-pastoral role or religious order
• Seasonal Worker visa: For individuals undertaking temporary seasonal agricultural work

Youth Mobility Scheme Visa

What is this visa? The Youth Mobility Scheme visa allows eligible young people to come and live and work in the UK temporarily.

What are the requirements? To be eligible for this scheme, you must be aged between 18 and 30, have at least £2,530 in savings and are from one of the eligible countries.

How much does it cost? It costs £340 to apply for this visa.

How long can you stay? You can stay in the UK for up to 2 years.

If you wish to travel to the UK and set up your own business in 2026, you’ll be able to do so through the Innovator Founder visa. It will require significant financial investment and an approved business plan or existing investment project.

UK Innovator Founder Visa

What is this visa? Innovator founder visa is designed for individuals who want to set up and run an innovative UK-based business that is unlike another existing business.

What are the requirements? Your business idea must have been endorsed by an approved body (endorsing body) and must be innovative, viable, and scalable. You must also have enough business funds to meet the above requirements. There is no set amount.

How much does it cost? The visa costs £1,357 if you apply from outside the UK, or £1,693 if you apply or extend from inside the UK.

How long can you stay? If approved, you can stay in the UK for three years. This can be extended for an additional three years if you came to the UK while on an Innovator Founder Visa, or alternatively, if you switched to this visa from another in the UK.

1. Identify the visas that you qualify for based on your circumstances. Confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria or take action to meet the same (such as obtaining an eligible UK job offer if your visa requires you to do so)
2. Understand what supporting evidence you must submit. Prepare your documents and information accordingly
3. Apply for your chosen visa online through the UK government website
4. Prove your identity as part of the application process. Depending on your circumstances, this may be through the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ mobile app or in person at a local visa application centre (VAC)
5. Pay the visa application fee by a credit or debit card. Ensure you pay the correct fee for your chosen visa route to avoid a rejection
6. Submit your visa application online
7. Schedule an appointment with your nearest VAC (usually run by official third-party consular services providers such as VFS Global, TLSContact, etc.)
8. Attend your visa appointment to prove your identity and give your biometrics (unless exempt)
9. Wait for a decision on your application
10. If your application has been refused, you may reapply, ask for an administrative review, or lodge an appeal. Your immigration lawyer can advise you on the best way forward based on the refusal reason(s)
11. If your application has been approved, start making preparations to come to the UK, such as booking your travel, organising accommodation and sorting logistics. Speak to an expert relocation service provider for a stress-fee move
12. If you have any eligible dependants who wish to come to the UK with you, they may be included in your application (they must meet the dependant’s eligibility criteria)
13. Travel to the UK with your documents

Here’s a general list of supporting documents (the Home Office may ask you for other relevant evidence or documents depending on your circumstances):

• A valid passport, with at least one blank page
• Proof of financial means
• If you are coming to work, then:
  • A job offer or employment contract
  • Certificate of Sponsorship reference number, and the name and sponsor licence number of your employer
  • Qualification/work experience evidence
• If you coming to study in the UK, then:
  • Acceptance letter from a UK educational institution
  • Parental consent to study in the UK if you are under 18
• For family visas, proof of relationship with your UK resident family member
• Business plan and endorsement from an approved body in the UK for foreign entrepreneurs applying for an Innovator Founder visa
• Criminal record certificate
• Tuberculosis test certificate (if the applicant has been a resident of a listed country for six months)
• English language certificate (where relevant)

Overview

Many people who wish to immigrate to the UK will want to apply for permanent residence, also known as settlement, and also known in the UK as indefinite leave to remain (ILR).

There are numerous routes towards ILR in the UK, but many people become eligible for it by spending a qualifying amount of time in the UK with an eligible visa.

In the case of the Spouse visa and Skilled Worker visa, for example, this period of time is normally five years.

The specific requirements for ILR will vary with each individual pathway. But there are some general requirements that all or most applicants will have to adhere to when applying for ILR, such as the following. You must:

• Have no record of previous criminal offences or immigration law breaches
• Pass the Life in the UK test
• Meet the English language requirements
• Meet the financial requirements or demonstrate that you can support yourself and your dependents financially
• Continue to meet eligibility criteria for your chosen visa pathway, or intend to fulfil the conditions of your visa after applying for ILR in some instances

Indefinite Leave to Remain

How can you get ILR in the UK? There are numerous routes towards ILR in the UK. The best route will depend on your circumstances.

Below are some of the ways to qualify for ILR:

• Live and work in the UK on an eligible visa for at least five years (some visas may qualify after two or three years)
• Meet the minimum salary/ financial requirements depending on your visa
• Have a partner, parent, child, or eligible relative based in the UK who holds ILR
• Live in the UK for ten years (the long residence basis)
• Live in the UK for five years on a UK Ancestry Visa
• Apply as a refugee or person with humanitarian protection or discretionary leave
• Return to the UK having previously held ILR
• Have served in the UK armed forces

The cost of an indefinite leave to remain application is £3,226. There may be additional costs included, such as if you are required to submit official translations of your documents and if you need to take an approved English language test.

If you are granted ILR, you are considered settled in the UK and in most cases, ILR status will not expire. However, there are some instances where it can. For example, if you stay outside the UK for two years or more, your ILR may be revoked.

After moving to the UK, you may wish to become a naturalised British citizen.

Depending on your existing nationality, you may be able to hold dual citizenship, as this is acceptable under UK law.

British citizenship may be granted to individuals who meet the eligibility requirements. These may include the following situations:

• You were born in the UK to British parents and automatically qualify as a citizen
• You were born in the UK and you are eligible for citizenship but not automatically entitled to it
• You are the spouse of a British citizen and you hold ILR or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
• You have held ILR for five years (or three years under some routes) and you have waited the additional 12 months to become eligible for citizenship
• You have a British parent
• You have another form of British nationality
• You are stateless
• You have previously renounced your citizenship
• You are an eligible Commonwealth citizen

Once you have been naturalised as a British citizen and attended your citizenship ceremony, you will be able to apply for your first UK passport.

Moving to a new country can be very challenging and it can be very daunting, especially understand the different rules regarding banking, healthcare and finding suitable accommodation.

Legal Processes

Navigating UK bureaucracy is crucial for newcomers. Key steps include:

• Register with Local Authorities: Optional but aids in accessing services.
• Apply for a National Insurance Number: Essential for work and tax; apply online or by phone.
• Set Up Utilities: Compare providers online to establish gas, electricity, water, and internet accounts.
• Obtain a Biometric Residence Permit: Required for non-EU residents; collect at a post office within 10 days of arrival.

Using UK Healthcare

Unlike in many other countries, the UK does have a free at the point of service healthcare. The National Health Service (NHS) is accessible by all UK residents. If you are coming to the UK on a visa you will need to pay the Health Immigration Surcharge that will allow you to access NHS treatment and services.

If you are visiting the UK and are a EU/EFTA national then you are advised to apply for a free European Healthcare Insurance Card. This will allow you access to emergency medical treatment while in the country.

To register with the NHS, find a local GP (general practitioner) through the NHS website and complete their registration form online or in person. You’ll need proof of address and ID, such as a passport.

Some people do opt for private healthcare insurance as there is a number of private healthcare providers in the UK but even if you do, you still have to pay the mandatory healthcare surcharge (IHS).

How to Open a UK Bank Account

You will need to open a UK bank account if you plan to stay long-term in the UK.  This is so that you can receive a salary and pay bills. If you rely on an overseas account you could end up paying significant fees and some employers may refused to pay your wage into a non-UK account.

To set up a UK bank account, choose a bank, book an appointment online or visit a branch. You’ll need proof of ID (passport or driver’s license) and proof of UK address (such as a utility bill or rental agreement). Many banks also offer online-only account setups for added convenience, so you may be able to do this from overseas, but may need an address, even if it’s a temporary one, to set up.

Understanding UK Tax

If you work while in the UK then your employer may require you to provide a National Insurance number. This can be applied for online and could also be included on your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) if you already have one.

You may be required to pay income tax and in the UK this is processed by the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), with the deductions paid directly from your monthly salary if you are employed.

However, if you are self-employed then you may need to complete an annual self-assessment to ensure you are paying the correct tax.  Failure to pay tax in the UK can have serious financial and criminal consequences.

Bringing Family to the UK

Bringing family to the UK depends on their relationship with you. Spouses, unmarried partners, dependent children, parents and adult dependents (usually vulnerable or in need of your care) can come to the UK under specific conditions. Usually, you must have lived with them for 2 years or more previously and be able to support them in the UK.

• If you have settled status or British or Irish citizenship or have protected status in the UK, you can apply for a Family Visa or Adult Dependent Visa (to care for a family member long-term).
• If your sponsor is not a British national, you may be able to apply for a Dependent Visa on the Points-Based System (PBS) or a Skilled Worker Dependent Visa. You must meet all the requirements.

Enrolling Children in School

To enrol in a UK school, contact your local council to apply for a place. They will guide you on available schools and require documents such as proof of address and your child’s previous school records.

Bringing Pets to the UK

Bringing pets to the UK can be costly. As with anywhere, it is expensive to transport your pet, and depending on where you are travelling from, your pet may be subject to quarantine periods or longer quarantine periods. You must prepare in advance to ensure all vaccinations (especially for rabies), health certificates and microchipping is up-to-date. Beyond paying for their transport to the UK, which can cost £1400-4000 depending on when and where you’re travelling from and the airline you choose, you will also need to pay for an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) which typically costs £90–£180.

Housing in the UK

Expats moving to the UK will need to find accommodation. Conditions in the rental market are good in many cities, but competition is high among renters. You will need to act fast and, in many cases, put down a deposit or commit to an extended contract to compete for studios and houses, for example. Rooms are typically easier to acquire. Property on platforms like zoopla.com and rightmove.com can often be filled in in days.

There is also an emphasis on references and credit checks, so you will likely need to be able to complete both of these requirements. Especially in major UK cities like London, Manchester, Bristol, York and Liverpool.

Some companies and individuals help expats to move to the UK without references, but you may need to find short-term or flexible accommodation on places like spareroom.com or airbnb.com. You may also be able to find people renting out accommodation on platforms like Facebook. Proceed cautiously, but this can be a great option for your first property as you can build rapport with the landlord, and they can see who you are in contrast to using an estate agent who can only feedback information to the landlord. Try to ensure, even if you do find them on platforms outside traditional agents, that they complete the process using a third party, such as an estate agent, for peace of mind, security and tenancy rights.

Cultural Integration in the UK

Integrating in the UK can be made easier by joining events and groups on platforms like meetup.com, which tends to have expat and local communities organising events from pub crawls to organised walks and meditation retreats.

Walking tours can also be a great way to learn about the local area and its history. Most large UK cities offer FREE walking tours that accept donations.

Familiarise yourself with basic laws, like the drinking age (18+), driving rules, whether you need an international driving licence, car insurance, and fines for actions like stepping on rail tracks, smoking in undesignated areas or littering.

Respect local etiquette, such as speaking softly if conversing on public transport and saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’.

How much your move to the UK is going to cost you depends on various factors, such as your visa route, the country you are applying from, the number of people moving with you to the UK (if any), relocation spending, the service suppliers you are going to hire, etc.

Generally speaking, you may need to budget for the following immigration costs:

• Visa fees and health surcharges (vary depending on your chosen visa route)
• Visa application centre charges (where relevant)
• Documentation charges including translation costs (where applicable)
• TB test costs (for applicants from listed countries)
• Travel costs (will increase if your family is also moving with you)
• Shipping costs (depends on the volume of household goods being shipped, whether you are bringing pets, etc.)
• Immigration lawyer fees (if applicable)

Every immigration case is unique. The cost of hiring a UK immigration lawyer will vary depending on the type of service you are looking for as well as your circumstances.

To handle a complicated immigration situation, you will require a lawyer with a higher level of experience or expertise, which may increase your legal costs.

However, having a specialist immigration lawyer guiding and advising your visa application and/or representing you before an appeal tribunal can significantly increase your chances of receiving a positive decision and make the process smoother overall.

Total Law believes in providing an upfront cost estimate to our clients after reviewing their cases. We also ensure no hidden costs.

Get in touch with us on +44 (0) 333 305 9375 for an advice session to find out how we can help you and how much an immigration lawyer supporting your case is likely to cost you.