General Immigration

There are many different visa options. This section outlines those categories that fall under General Immigration. Should you wish to come to the UK to study, work as an au pair, do a one-off performance, or retire in the UK, most likely the visa you are looking for will be here. There are also many other categories to choose from that might be right for you.

Students

People who have secured a place to study on a full-time basis at some form of educational institution may enter the UK as a student. In practice, at least 15 hours a week must be spent in study and the student must be able to meet the cost of the course, maintenance and accommodation without working. However, those on student visas may work 20 hours/week during term time and 40 hours/week during holidays. Normally there are no restrictions on a spouse and children working in the UK, if the student will be studying longer than one year.

Visitor Visas

Nationals of certain countries wishing to visit the UK must obtain a Visitor or Direct Air Transit Visa. You should apply for these visas at the UK Mission in the country where you are normally and legally a resident. You should apply for your travel visa well in advance of your proposed travel date.

Gap Year Entrants

A new scheme has recently been announced by the Home Office under which non- EU/EEA nationals who are 18 or 19 years of age can come to the UK for 12 months to take up work in schools during their gap year (the year between finishing secondary school and commencing University studies).

Ministers of Religion

Individuals wishing to come to the UK to work full-time as a minister of religion must demonstrate that he or she is a religious worker whose main duty is to lead a congregation in prayer and preach about your religious beliefs and that he or she has been working for at least one year as a minister or that you have been ordained after training for the ministry. If trained then this training must have been for at least one year full-time or two years part-time.

Retirement

Retirement to the UK is an option for foreign nationals over sixty who can demonstrate an income of Ł25,000 per year "without working", and a close connection with the UK. The 'close connection' requirement is not defined rigidly, and may, for example, be satisfied by having a close relative in the UK, previous UK residence, business connections/interests in the UK, or a strong sense of identity with the UK.

Other types of Visas
There are numerous general immigration visas not highlighted on our site. these include:

  • EEA/EU National Visas

  • Au Pair Visas

  • Domestic Worker Visas

  • Japan Youth Exchange Visas

  • Overseas Government Employee Visas

  • Representatives of Overseas Newspapers Visas

  • Postgraduate Doctors & Dentists Visas

  • Voluntary Workers Visas

  • Scottish Fresh Talent Scheme Visas

  • Entertainer Visas


If you require further information or would like to come in for a free intiial consultation, please contact our office.






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