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Here at the Immigration Lawyers Organisation, based in England, UK, we serve clients throughout the world. We have collected our Top Ten tips for how to move the UK, legally. Here they are:

  1. UK Immigration Law is complex. Therefore, we advise you to comprehensively research the various visa options which are available to you. In the UK, there are many different types of visas that allow people to immigrate to the UK legally, including work visas, sponsor visa,s study visas, and family visas, etc. It is therefore of paramount importance that people who want to move to the UK understand the requirements and restrictions of each type of visa and choose the one that best fits their circumstances.
  2. Once you have decided on the right lawful route for you, perhaps by engaging a specialist UK-based immigration lawyer, we recommend that you gather all the necessary documents and evidence at the outset. Most visa applications require a range of documents and evidence to support your application, such as proof of identity, proof of financial stability, and evidence of any qualifications or skills you have. Make sure you have all of the required documents, ready before you start your application. If you engage a lawyer to help (see 4), they will tell you what documents you need. It is best, though, to be thoroughly prepared, for the more preparation you put in, the less cost your lawyer ought to be.
  3. Understand the application process. The process for applying for a visa to the UK is undeniably complex, with many different steps and requirements. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with the process and make sure you complete each step correctly to increase your chances of success. (As below, your immigration lawyer (solicitor) should guide you through the process, should you choose to instruct one.)
  4. Use a reputable immigration lawyer/solicitor or adviser, chosen through personal referrals and backed up with a check of their online reviews. While you can apply for a visa to the UK on your own, without a lawyer, it can be helpful to use the services of a reputable immigration lawyer/solicitor or adviser. These legal advisors can help you navigate the process, ensure that you have all the necessary documents, and provide you with valuable advice and support.
  5. Be prepared to wait, and wait some more. The process of applying for a visa to the UK can be lengthy, with some applications taking several months to be processed. Be prepared to be patient and to wait for a decision on your application. If you aren’t using a lawyer, be prepared to reply to questions as quickly as you can.
  6. Learn English and keep learning. Many visas to the UK require you to have a certain level of English language proficiency, and being able to speak and understand English will also be helpful once you arrive in the UK. Consider taking a language course, such as here, or enrolling in an English-language school to improve your skills. You can never know too much English!
  7. Research the cost of living in the UK. The cost of living in the UK can vary significantly depending on where you live and your lifestyle. The South-East of England, including London, is one of the most expensive places to live in the world. We recommend that you make sure you have a realistic understanding of the costs you will face and ensure you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself.
  8. Find a place to live. Before you arrive in the UK, it’s a good idea to find a place to live. This can be challenging, as the demand for rental properties in some areas can be high, particularly in the South-East of England and London. Consider using a reputable letting agency or estate agent to help you find a suitable property.
  9. Register with a General Practitioner (GP – a doctor). As soon as you arrive in the UK, it’s important to register with a GP to ensure you have access to healthcare. You will need to provide proof of your address and identity to do this.
  10. Get a National Insurance number. A National Insurance number is a unique personal number that you need in order to work and pay taxes in the UK. You will need to apply for one as soon as you arrive in the UK, as it can take several weeks to be issued. You will need proof of your lawful immigration status, including your right to work, before you can take lawful, gainful employment in the UK.

We hope that you find our top tips helpful. As ever, do visit the UK-based immigration lawyers on our site here.