Immigration Law

There are several UK visa options that allow individuals to work without employer sponsorship, often depending on personal circumstances. We have extensive experience advising clients on these alternative routes, which may include starting a business, joining family, or spending regular periods in the UK for work or other purposes. Our goal is to ensure each client understands the full range of options available to them based on their unique situation.

From the outset, we take a holistic view of each person’s short- and long-term goals—whether that involves frequent visits, establishing a UK base, or settling permanently. We work closely with individuals and businesses to provide clear, practical guidance, helping clients make informed decisions about their future in the UK.

• Ancestry - Commonwealth citizens who wish to work or volunteer in the UK, and have a British born grandparent, can apply for this five year work visa.

• Dependant Partners - Whether a dependant of a sponsored worker, of a British national or someone with Indefinite Leave to Remain, these visas permit the holder to work in the UK with few restrictions although some have financial and other thresholds to be satisfied.

• Global Talent - The UK seeks to attract highly skilled individuals to the UK in several key industries including digital technology, academia and research, and arts and culture. Those who have won an eligible prize or who are considered current or future leaders of their field firstly obtain endorsement and secondly a visa up to five years with some qualifying for accelerated settlement.

• Graduate - Many Student visa holders wishing to stay in the UK after completion of their studies will apply for the Graduate visa (the old “post study work” route) which will allow them to stay in the UK for two or three years (dependent on studies) to work, be self-employed or volunteer.

• High Potential Individual - Graduates of the top 50 non-UK Universities within the previous five years may be eligible for a two or three year visa (Degree dependent) enabling work and self-employment.

• Innovator Founder - Those who have an innovative, scalable and viable business idea can seek endorsement for a three year visa to set up their business(es) with an accelerated route to settlement.

• Youth Mobility Scheme - Reciprocal arrangements between the UK and 13 other countries including New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea, etc. for nationals aged up to 30 or 35 for a visa up to two or three years (nationality dependent).

Visitors

For short-term trips to the UK, close attention should be paid to what the individual will be doing and whether the intended activities will fit within the Visitor rules. There are many business activities, including limited remote working, permitted by Visitors to the UK. It can be a nuanced assessment to ensure visitors do not conduct ‘work’ during their trip which would require a work visa. We can advise you on:

• Prohibited and permitted activities

• Permitted Paid Engagements

• Short-Term Student

• Creative Worker

• Servicing UK contracts

• Specific permitted activities

• Electronic Travel Authorisation