Should applicants be given an opportunity to address the allegation of deception before entry clearance is refused?
After evolving case law in the area, the answer today is, yes. Procedural fairness requires that an applicant for entry clearance, facing a mandatory refusal based on alleged deception, should be given notice of the allegation. The position has been clear for quite some time with respect to in-country applicants. However, in practice, the Home […]
Asylum ‘Reset’: Five-Year Refugee Leave Replaced with 30-Months Limited Leave
The UK government has announced significant changes to the asylum framework, introducing a new ‘core protection’ model that grants refugees 30 months of leave to remain instead of the current five-year period, effective from 02 March 2026. Under the revised system, individuals granted refugee status will receive temporary permission to stay in the UK for […]
Immediate settlement for children: Key Court of Appeal ruling
Immigration Rules part 8: family members currently preserve paragraphs 297 – 300 with some additional requirements by reference to Appendix FM. This is a different immigration route to Appendix FM, which is open to child applicants and can lead to immediate settlement in the first instance as opposed to the shorter permission to stay granted […]
Understanding “Insurmountable Obstacles” in Partner Visa Applications
Under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules, the test of insurmountable obstacles applies when a couple, typically involving a British citizen or someone settled in the UK, cannot meet standard visa requirements but argue that they cannot reasonably live together outside the UK. This test is especially relevant when applications involve human rights grounds, particularly […]
A Guideline: UK Visitor Visa Applications
What is a Standard Visitor Visa for? The UK Standard Visitor visa is intended for individuals seeking to enter the United Kingdom for a short, temporary period for a clearly defined purpose. It is governed by Appendix V of the UK Immigration Rules. Despite its apparent simplicity, some applications are refused due to the caveats […]
What does it mean to be on immigration bail for Graduates and Skilled Workers?
Recently, we have noted a trend of applicants finding it difficult to switch to immigration categories such as Skilled Worker and Graduate route because they have been placed on immigration bail immediately after or alongside a negative decision on their immigration application. This is a problem for many, especially students and those with real job […]
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 […]
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 […]