Excellent service. QC responded promptly, provided me with thorough, precise and easy to follow advice. Exactly what I needed when I was stressing about my daughter's citizenship status. Thank you so much.
UK immigration, clearly explained.
Practical answers from our regulated immigration advisers, with clear publication dates so you know when the guidance was written.
Try “spouse visa financial requirement”, “sponsor licence compliance” or “visa refused”.
Featured guidance
Work visas Your Right to Work while waiting for a Visa Application
Many clients, after submitting and waiting for a visa application or extension, have explained the fear of losing their jobs. Our immigration lawyers explain how you can preserve your right to work and remain compliant with immigration rules, while minimising disruption to both employers and employees.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 11 Jun 2025 · 8 min read
Refusals & appeals Can I Cancel My UK Visa Application and Reapply Immediately?
Published 17 Mar 2025 · 8 min read
Refusals & appeals Overstaying Your UK Visa: Rules & Consequences
Published 12 Mar 2025 · 10 min read
Refusals & appeals What to Do If Your UK Visa Is Cancelled or Curtailed
Published 7 Mar 2025 · 6 min readFor individuals and families
Personal immigration
Partner and family routes, work visas, settlement, citizenship, visits and what to do after a refusal.
For employers and sponsors
Business immigration
Getting and keeping a sponsor licence, hiring from overseas, Certificates of Sponsorship, sponsor duties, audits, suspensions and revocations.
All guidance
68 articles
Work visas Right to Work Checks: UK Employer Guide for 2026 Rules
Right to work checks change from 1 October 2026, covering workers and subcontractors. Learn the new rules, avoid penalties and stay fully compliant.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 1 Oct 2026 · 39 min read
Settlement & citizenship Moving to Scotland from the US: Visas & British Citizenship
If you have Scottish ancestry, you can live in the UK by obtaining British citizenship or exploring other available visa options.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 8 Apr 2025 · 3 min read
Choosing the Best UK Immigration Lawyer in 2025
Looking for the best immigration lawyer? With numerous options available, knowing what to look for is essential to ensure you choose the top immigration lawyer or solicitor for your case.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 3 Mar 2025 · 12 min readFree guide
Download the document checklist
The evidence the Home Office expects for each route, in one PDF, with the mistakes we see most often.
Visit visas UK Visits: Guide to the 180-Day Rule
We answer the question “How long can I stay in the UK without a visa?” for non-visa nationals and clearly explain the 180-day rule for those visiting on a standard travel visa. We’ll cover how these rules apply to your stay, what to watch out for, and how to avoid potential immigration issues.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 27 Feb 2025 · 8 min read
Refusals & appeals Tracking a UK Visa Application
Need to check the status of your UK visa application? This article explains all the UK visa application tracking methods, from online portals to phone inquiries. Learn how to stay informed about your visa status easily.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 24 Feb 2025 · 7 min read
Invitation & Sponsor Letter for Visa UK
A sponsor letter for a visa in the UK is a document where a UK resident supports a visa applicant. This guide covers what it is, who can write it, and essential details to include.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 21 Feb 2025 · 6 min read
Family & partners Can My Partner Cancel My Spouse Visa?
Your spouse cannot directly cancel your Spouse, Civil Partner, Unmarried Partner or Dependent Visa, but you must tell the Home Office of any separation. Only the Home Office has the authority to grant or revoke visas. Failing to report a separation could result in visa cancellation and deportation.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 17 Feb 2025 · 5 min read
Work visas What Happens If You Lose Your Job on a Skilled Worker Visa UK?
Losing your job while on a Skilled Worker visa in the UK can be stressful, especially since it can significantly impact your immigration status. It’s crucial to act quickly and understand your options to ensure you remain compliant with UK visa requirements if you plan to stay in the UK.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 14 Feb 2025 · 5 min read
Settlement & citizenship British Citizenship & ILR: Do Penalty Points or Parking Tickets Affect Your Application?
If you have points on your driving licence, you can still apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain and British Citizenship. However, the impact of these endorsements on your application will depend on the specific circumstances and their severity.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 11 Feb 2025 · 6 min read
Settlement & citizenship Good Character Requirements For British Citizenship 2025 Update
British citizenship applications often seem straightforward, however we find that clients often get caught by the ‘Good Character’ requirement.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 11 Feb 2025 · 5 min read
AI Opportunities Action Plan: Potential Impact on UK Immigration & Tech Ecosystem
With the UK Government announcing a new AI Opportunities Action Plan for 2025, we have conducted an initial analysis to explore the implications, significance, and potential impact of these announcements on key UK immigration routes.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 15 Jan 2025 · 3 min read
Latest Migration Advisory Committee Release Summary
The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has published its latest annual report, providing an in-depth review of the UK’s immigration system, recent trends, and government-commissioned reviews.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 18 Dec 2024 · 6 min read
Sponsor licences Illegal Working Civil Penalties: Q2 2024 Data
Latest analysis of Q2 2024 illegal working civil penalties data, highlighting regional insights, comparisons with Q1, and the latest changes for UK employers.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 29 Nov 2024 · 2 min read
Work visas FAQ: UK Student Visa Cancellation & Work
What happens when your Student Visa is cancelled or curtailed? What is your right to work on a Student Visa?
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 9 Aug 2024 · 2 min read
Work visas Skilled Worker Visa: Applying from Overseas
When applying for a Skilled Worker Visa from outside the UK, here are the process, criteria, documents and timeline you need to prepare for.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 1 Aug 2024 · 3 min read
Family & partners UK Spouse & Partner Visas Financial Requirements
Get guidance on UK Spouse Visa financial requirements. Understand 2024 Home Office immigration rules for income, savings, and exemptions to successfully apply.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 11 Jul 2024 · 2 min read
Settlement & citizenship How to Settle in the UK?
Explore immigration routes that lead to settled status in the UK. Check eligibility for Business, Work, and Family Visas to gain Indefinite Leave to Remain.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 28 Jun 2024 · 2 min read
Settlement & citizenship Get a UK Passport for a Child Born Abroad to Settled Parents
Apply for a UK passport for a child born abroad. Check requirements for parents with ILR or British citizenship and learn how to successfully apply for a child.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 24 Jun 2024 · 2 min read
Work visas Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code Explained
Understand how to correctly select the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes required for UK worker visas.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 21 Dec 2023 · 4 min read
Oral Appeal: In-person vs Remote Hearing
Since COVID-19 and the Tribunal’s Digitisation efforts, the Immigration Appeal process has seen major changes.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 1 Nov 2023 · 4 min read
Family & partners Spouse, Unmarried Partner & Civil Partner Visas: FAQ
The UK Partner Visa enables applicants to join their partner and live in the UK and qualify for settlement after a minimum of 5 years.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 25 Sept 2023 · 5 min read
Settlement & citizenship Calculate Absences for ILR Under 10-Year Long Residence 2026
Calculate your continuous lawful period in the UK for Indefinite Leave to Remain. Check allowable absences and requirements for a successful application.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 8 Sept 2023 · 8 min read
Settlement & citizenship Life in the UK Test: What You Need to Know
If you apply to become a British citizen or for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, you will probably be asked to take the Life in the UK Test.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 29 Jun 2023 · 6 min read
Start-Up and Innovator Visa: Knowing the difference
Confused about the differences between the Start-up Visa and the Innovator Visa? Our team clarifies the distinctions to help you choose the best option.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 20 Oct 2022 · 3 min read
Family & partners Partner Visas Financial Requirements in 2022
It is often difficult and time-consuming to assess and prepare your documents to meet the financial requirements for partner visas. Find out how we can help.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 28 Jul 2022 · 4 min read
Family & partners What Happens to Your Visa When You Divorce or Separate
After a Divorce or Separation, here are your options to keep your UK Visa or work towards British Citizenship.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 18 Jul 2022 · 3 min read
Thoughts from a Paralegal – Why I want to become an Immigration Lawyer
Immigration paralegal Rakesh Patel shares his thoughts about why he wants to become an immigration lawyer.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 11 May 2022 · 2 min read
International Women's Day 2022 #Breakthebias
Every March, we join the global community to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 9 Mar 2022 · 1 min read
COVID impacts T1 Entrepreneur, Startup, & Innovator Visas
Learn more on alternatives for Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa holders applying for Extension and Indefinite Leave to Remain applications.
By Hafsah Awan · Published 13 Apr 2020 · 1 min read
Work visas COVID-19: Tier 4 student Sponsors’ change in duties
By now, most Tier 4 Students are prevented from attending classes due to illness, self-isolation or travel restrictions caused by COVID-19.
By Hafsah Awan · Published 2 Apr 2020 · 1 min read
Coronavirus: Tier 2 & 5 Sponsors’ change in duties
Companies around the UK have had to made significant last-minute changes to their workforce in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdown.
By Hafsah Awan · Published 2 Apr 2020 · 2 min read
Is Coronavirus affecting your UK Visa status?
We have been receiving unprecedented queries from clients who are in the UK and nearing their visa expiry dates, but unable to return to their home country
By Hafsah Awan · Published 29 Mar 2020 · 2 min read
Immigration Appeals at the Tribunal: What to Expect?
Uncover the process and expectations of an Immigration Appeal at the Tribunal. Gain insights into what to anticipate during the appeal process. Learn more here.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 26 Jan 2020 · 3 min read
Tier 2 Visa & the Restrictive Certificate of Sponsorship cap
UK companies and migrant employees may recall last spring and summer of 2018 of waiting patiently for the approval of Restrictive Certificate of Sponsorship.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 2 Jul 2019 · 2 min read
What US Citizens need to know about UK Immigration
QC Immigration has represented hundreds of US clients on a daily basis, from Family Visas to Work Sponsorship.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 30 Jun 2019 · 2 min read
Settlement & citizenship Tier 2 Visa: Indefinite Leave to Remain under 5 Year route
When applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain, the Home Office assesses your intention to make the UK your permanent home.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 12 Jun 2019 · 3 min read
Settlement & citizenship Absences under the Tier 2 Indefinite Leave to Remain route
If you are trying to understand Absences for Indefinite Leave to Remain, this blog post examined them under the 10-years Long Residence route.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 31 Mar 2019 · 2 min read
Family & partners A love story that defied borders
As immigration lawyers, we meet people from all walks of lives. We often witness the unconditional love and support people have for each other.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 9 Mar 2019 · 1 min read
Work visas Tier 2 Sponsor Licence Prep: UK Employers & Brexit
Currently, UK employers are only required to hold a Tier 2 Sponsor Licence if they are seeking to employ workers from outside the EEA and Switzerland who
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 26 Jan 2019 · 2 min read
Work visas 5 Things to Consider When Applying for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa
The Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa is a UK immigration route under the Points Based System which allows entrepreneurs to come to the UK to start up a business
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 13 Dec 2018 · 1 min read
Comprehensive Sickness Insurance And Brexit
Comprehensive Sickness Insurance (CSI) is one of the many requirements for those seeking to acquire Permanent Residence in the UK.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 7 Dec 2018 · 2 min read
Work visas Tier 2 Visa Cap Discussion on ITV News
After months of campaigning there is some good news on the Tier 2 Visa Cap. See what QC-Immigration had to say when they were featured on ITV News.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 8 Nov 2018 · 2 min read
EU Nationals in the UK: how to plan your future?
There are a lot of uncertainties for EU nationals as the negotiations rumble on ahead of Britain's official departure from the European Union. Read more.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 12 Sept 2018 · 2 min read
Announcement: QC Immigration accepts Judicial Review applications
Judicial Review is the revision of a Home Office decision by a judge. It is usually a remedy of last resort and pursued if neither a right of Appeal or
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 3 Jul 2018 · 1 min read
Work visas Investment Funds In Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa
If you are applying for an Entrepreneur Visa, you are going to need to provide evidence of investment funds. How can you do this? Read more for our advice.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 15 Apr 2018 · 1 min read
Work visas Mistakes made when setting up a business in the UK
How can you avoid common mistakes made when setting up a business in the UK? Read this post to ensure you get your company off on the right foot.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 11 Apr 2018 · 1 min read
Work visas Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa Application - what to include and exclude?
When applying for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa, how so you know what to include and exclude in the application? Read our advice on navigating the application.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 4 Apr 2018 · 1 min read
Work visas Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa application mistakes to avoid
If you want to set up or run a business in the UK, it is likely that you are going to need an Entrepreneur Visa. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 25 Mar 2018 · 1 min read
Work visas Proving your English knowledge for Tier 1 Entrepreneur visa
There is an English knowledge requirement you need to meet when applying for a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa. Find out more here and read our guidance.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 22 Mar 2018 · 2 min read
Work visas The Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa interview: What you need to know
The interview stage of the Entrepreneur Visa can be one of the most nerve wracking parts of the process. We have produced a handy guide to help you prepare.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 27 Feb 2018 · 1 min read
Work visas 6 Tips For An Entrepreneur Visa
A successful extension on the Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa involves planning from the moment of entry to the day of renewal. Read advice from specialist lawyers.
By Hafsah Awan · Published 8 Feb 2018 · 1 min read
Work visas Investor Visas Granted in 2016
The below chart shows the number of UK Investor Visas that were granted in 2016. The chart shows dependent applicants country of nationality.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 20 Jan 2018 · 1 min read
Work visas Tier 1 UK Investor Visa: Problems with Investing the Funds
When applying for an Investor Visa, investors face practical difficulties such as transferring funds across jurisdictions. Read our specialist team's advice.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 20 Jan 2018 · 2 min read
Work visas Tier 1 Entrepreneur – Job Creation
Many Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa applicants struggle with the job creation aspect during Extension and Indefinite Leave to Remain applications. Learn why here.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 1 Dec 2017 · 3 min read
Work visas T2 Sponsor employers: Resident Labour Market Test Info
Tier 2 Sponsor: UK companies may rely on migrant workers, but many are unaware of the stringent procedure that must be followed prior to sponsorship.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 20 Nov 2017 · 2 min readImmigration Advice – How to Choose?
Seeking expert UK immigration advice? Learn what to look for in a UK visa lawyer to ensure they have UKVI knowledge and handle your application successfully.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 13 Oct 2017 · 2 min read
EU Treaty Rights – What Does "Exercising" Them Actually Mean?
When preparing a relevant residence applications, you are asked about exercising Treaty EU Treaty Rights – What does it actually mean? Read our guidance here.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 10 Oct 2017 · 2 min read
Deportation: Deport First, Appeal Later?
The conflict of deportation of a migrant and Article 8 Right to a Private and Family Life is historic in nature. This post explores the case of Section 94B.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 22 Sept 2017 · 3 min read
Work visas The International Student's ticking clock upon graduation
A student from Bristol university discusses what students need to think about regarding their right to remain in the UK following their graduation.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 25 Jul 2017 · 4 min read
Guest Blog: Thought For The Day: London Without Immigration?
Guest Blogger, Taran shares her vie on London without immigration. If you have an immigration story you would like to share, please contact us.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 28 Jun 2017 · 1 min read
Immigration Lawyer Spotlight: Visa Service in Nigeria
UK Visa’s and Immigration (UKVI) launched a new fast track visa service in Nigeria on 1 August 2016. This post highlights the key changes.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 26 Apr 2017 · 1 min read
Work visas Here Are The Most Popular Jobs For Tier 2 Applications In 2016!
Overseas applicants applying for work need a tier 2 sponsor before they can apply for a tier 2 visa. Here is a summary of 2016 tier 2 visa applications.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 19 Apr 2017 · 1 min read
8 Tips For Finding A Reliable UK Immigration Lawyer
Top tips to find the best UK visa lawyer for personal, family & business immigration services. Choose an OISC-regulated firm with UKVI experience & fixed fees.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 6 Apr 2017 · 2 min read
Family & partners Successful Partner Visa Appeal
In this post, we share a story about a successful partner visa appeal which was completed on behalf of a QC Immigration client.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 12 Mar 2017 · 5 min read
Brexit interview: Ask a UK Immigration Specialist
Our longstanding US client, Melanie from her infamous Sunny In London blog, sat down with QC Immigration to have chat about the hottest topic in
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 12 Mar 2017 · 1 min read
Migrants Add Value to Businesses with Foreign Languages
A migrant’s most valuable contribution to the workplace is fluency in a foreign language. We often represent Tier 2 Sponsor Employers seeking to
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 12 Mar 2017 · 1 min read
Learn More About New Visa Fees Affecting You
April is a crucial month for most of us – the end and start of the financial year, new ISA limits, CPD fulfillment and most importantly, the Home Office
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 12 Mar 2017 · 1 min read
Beware of unacceptable English tests
For applicants of Entry Clearance (settlement), Point-based system, Indefinite Leave to Remain and British citizenship, preparing and sitting for the
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 12 Mar 2017 · 1 min read
Work visas Your Right to Work while waiting for a Visa Application
Many clients, after submitting and waiting for a visa application or extension, have explained the fear of losing their jobs. Our immigration lawyers explain how you can preserve your right to work and remain compliant with immigration rules, while minimising disruption to both employers and employees.
By Ninder Jhita · Published 11 Jun 2025 · 8 min read
Refusals & appeals Can I Cancel My UK Visa Application and Reapply Immediately?
You can cancel your UK visa application and reapply immediately, but before you withdraw, it’s important to consider why and assess any potential consequences.
By Xiaohan Zhao · Published 17 Mar 2025 · 8 min read
Refusals & appeals Overstaying Your UK Visa: Rules & Consequences
Overstaying your visa in the UK has serious consequences, so it is important to understand the rules and how they can affect you and your immigration status.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 12 Mar 2025 · 10 min read
Refusals & appeals What to Do If Your UK Visa Is Cancelled or Curtailed
When a UK visa is cancelled, it can have serious consequences for the visa holder. These consequences may include the need to leave the country, potential re-entry bans, and complications with future visa applications.
By Qiyin Chuah · Published 7 Mar 2025 · 6 min readWhat our clients say
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