Switching Visas from Inside the UK: Who Can and Cannot Switch Immigration Category
Under UK immigration law, many individuals already present in the UK may be able to switch from one visa category to another without having to leave the UK. However, switching is not a universal right and is subject to certain restrictions and regulation. Understanding who can and cannot switch immigration category from within the UK […]
Sponsor Licence Compliance – The Most Common Breaches
Holding a Sponsor Licence allows UK businesses to recruit skilled workers that are overseas nationals, but it also imposes strict and ongoing compliance duties. In 2025, the Home Office has intensified enforcement activity, with more unannounced compliance visits and increased scrutiny of whether sponsors are meeting their obligations. This article highlights the most common compliance […]
Increase in English Language Requirements for Work Visas
On 14 October 2025, the Home Office laid a new set of changes to the UK’s immigration rules, following the publication in May 2025 of the Immigration White Paper titled Restoring Control over the Immigration System. A central change affecting economic migration is the increase in the English Language requirement for several key work routes. […]
Genuine and Subsisting Relationship requirement – PBS Dependent Partner Visa Applications
If you are applying as a dependent partner under the Points-Based System (PBS) route, such as Skilled Worker, Student, Health and care worker or Global talent, you must provide evidence to the Home Office that your relationship with your partner is genuine and subsisting. The rules derive from Appendix Relationship with Partner and apply to […]
Government Announces Major Changes to the Settlement System
The Home Secretary has announced a wide-ranging set of proposals that would significantly reshape the route to settlement in the UK. Addressing MPs, she stated that “to settle in this country forever is not a right, but a privilege, and it must be earned.” The proposed changes aim to introduce a contribution-based model, placing greater […]
Suspension of the Family Reunion Route: What It Means for You and Alternatives Under UK Immigration Law
The suspension of Appendix Family Reunion (Sponsors with Protection), also known as the refugee family reunion route, marks a significant shift in UK immigration policy, particularly for refugees and their loved ones separated by borders. Previously, this route enabled individuals granted refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK to sponsor their family members, including […]
Major Asylum Reform Announced by Home Secretary: Temporary Refugee Status and Stricter Controls
The UK government has announced a fundamental shift in its asylum system. Under the reforms proposed by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, the traditional model of refugee protection, where refugee status often led to ILR after 5 years, will be replaced with a new temporary status, subject to periodic review. A full statement on the proposals […]
Settlement for Victims of Domestic Abuse
Leaving an abusive relationship takes immense courage. For many migrants, that decision is made even more difficult by fear of losing immigration status or being forced to leave the UK. Recognising these risks, the Home Office introduced Appendix Victims of Domestic Abuse (VDA), a vital immigration route that allows certain victims to apply for Indefinite […]
Fee Waiver Applications: Key Guidelines
The Fee waiver application exists to ensure individuals who cannot afford to pay application or court fees are not denied access to justice or immigration rights. Fee waiver applications are available in specific circumstances — most commonly in immigration applications to the Home Office, and in court or tribunal proceedings. This Article focuses on the […]
Understanding Parental Responsibility
Family law operates on the principle that the welfare of the child is of paramount consideration. Within this framework, parental responsibility signifies not only the right to care for and make decisions regarding a child but also the duty to ensure the child’s well-being, education, and moral upbringing. What is parental responsibility? Parental responsibility, as […]