The first step of your immigration journey is to book an appointment with one of our experienced Immigration Lawyers.
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Making it work in your way
There are always difficult questions to answer when it comes to being self employed when applying to bring your overseas spouse to the UK. With the threshold standing at £18600; you will need to show you can achieve this using your net profit self employment income. This is the amount your SA100 will show after the deduction of your business expenses. The regime is very different from the employment category where gross income needs to be showed. Some would argue, this is unfair. The problem is that it is very difficult to earn independent income, particularly now in a post COVID world or rather in a world living under severe economic restrictions. The SA100, which essentially is your tax return needs to be your most recent and in the current tax year. This is not always possible when the tax returns are normally produced by Accountants in time for a January submission deadline. This is something I would suggest you discuss with your lawyer. There may be other income sources you could look at to meet your income requirements if you find you are falling short such as; dividends which are non-employment income or savings. If you have both a job and self employment you cannot combine the two sources. If you need further information or helpd with this give us a call or drop an email or talk to a Regulated Lawyer with whom you are already registered. We are here to educate and also to serve, in a world where the mantra is as in the picture above " Make Your Own Way". Our number is 01733 294537.
This post explains what to look out for when you are shopping around for immigration services.
In some cases, you may be eligible for an eVisa (digital immigration status) instead of a physical BRP. Check your visa decision letter for instructions. Access your eVisa via the 'View and Prove Your Immigration Status' online service: www.gov.uk/view-prove-immigration-status. Log in using your details (email and passport number or reference number) to view your visa information and share it with others if required. The system will not recognise the vignette, use the contact us segment of the website and request help. The UKVI will take it from there.
Understanding Employment Financial Requirements under Appendix FM
Discover the key employment financial requirements for UK immigration under Appendix FM. Learn about the minimum income thresholds, necessary documentation, and how to meet the criteria for family visa applications.
This post specifically examines issues of employment within the UK Visa - Partner Category. It is intended for providing clarity on expectations and managing this.
In the upcoming weeks we will focus on informing the public on the employment requirements for Spouses. For Training and Information for Practitioners and Students consult Sonya King (Author).
Apart from those with Right of Abode, there is another category of individuals who are not subject to the Immigration Rules rather their presence in the UK is governed by International Agreements. This includes diplomats, persons attending international conferences, members of international organisations such as the Commonwealth Secretariat and Members of International Forces under the Nation Status Forces Agreement. Under some of the international agreements controlling the presence of Exempt persons and their spouses there is automatic permission for the Spouses to work in the UK. Under others such as the Nato Forces Agreement there is no implicit right to work for the spouses as the agreement does not automatically grant work permission, they would need to check whether work is possible with their command and or should they obtain employment obtain what is known as a positive verification notice applied for by their employer. It is useful, therefore for holders of Exempt Status to apply for a vignette before entry. A vignette is a stamp affixed to a passport indicating status and conditions.
More than just immigration law, we give added value. This post welcomes you to work with us in 2025. It informs how we work and what we are willing to give. We will manage your case expertly, your expectations and work towards your future in the UK in partnership and in compliance with Governmental requirements.
The Life in the UK test is a vital step for British citizenship, but it can feel daunting for many. The test assesses knowledge of British history, traditions, and laws, with questions ranging from medieval monarchs to modern customs. Applicants often struggle because the content can seem far fetched and not easy to associate with day to day life, especially for those new to the UK. The test's multiple-choice format hence, knowledge is key , the pass mark is 75%. Many are nervous even before the study begins. That is why we are developing a program to help.
Naturalising as a British citizen is a significant milestone, offering the opportunity to fully embrace life in the UK. The process involves meeting key criteria: residing in the UK for at least 5 years (or 3 if married to a British citizen), holding Indefinite Leave to Remain, and demonstrating good character. Applicants must also prove their English language ability and pass the Life in the UK test, covering British history, culture, and values. Finally, a citizenship ceremony celebrates this new chapter. Naturalisation isn’t just legal status—it's a new chapter for many, providing freedoms, rights and responsibilities to one of the most progressive nation states in the World.