Immigration & Societal Contributions
‘Societal contribution’, within the context of immigration, encompasses various elements through which foreign-born residents enrich their host nation. These contributions are generally categorised into three main areas: economic contribution, cultural contribution and civic engagement. As nations compete for skilled labour and seek to boost their economic resilience, immigration systems and policies that recognise and leverage […]
Can International Students Start a Business in the UK?
There are strict rules governing what international students can and cannot do during their period of leave in the UK, including rules on working. But is it possible for student visa holders to start a business in the UK? While the UK generally encourages business growth, starting a company as a student on a visa […]
Equal Opportunities Policy: Guide for Employers
An equal opportunities policy is one of the most effective ways to prevent unfairness in the workplace and to demonstrate the employer’s commitment to fair working practices. A well-drafted policy sets out an employer’s commitment to fair treatment in the workplace and compliance with obligations under the Equality Act 2010 that all employees and job […]
Explore Commonwealth Visa Options
The United Kingdom shares a unique and enduring bond with the Commonwealth, an association spanning 56 member countries. Linked historically through past British colonial governance or ties to the British Crown, this diverse international community epitomises cultural, social, and economic collaboration. For Commonwealth citizens, this connection is further acknowledged through specific UK visa pathways, which […]
Visa Appeal: Challenging Visa Decisions
Appealing a UK visa or immigration decision is one of a number of options potentially open to applicants to challenge a Home Office decision. However, not all UK visa decisions are eligible for an appeal. The right to appeal is reserved for specific categories of visas and decisions, mainly those involving human rights or protection […]
Is Redundancy Pay Taxable? Employer Guide
One of the key benefits of redundancy pay in the UK is that it can be partially or wholly tax-free, depending on the amount and what it is made up of. While redundancy pay can provide significant financial relief to employees, the tax treatment of these payments can vary, and employers have to be aware […]
Overseas Criminal Record Checks
Criminal record checks are mandatory for certain types of roles in the UK. Some employers may also opt to use overseas criminal record checks for applicants who have spent time abroad so as to mitigate recruitment risks and ensure a safe working environment. An overseas criminal record check allows UK employers to assess whether a […]
How to Live Permanently in the UK
Living permanently in the UK is a goal shared by many who have made the United Kingdom their home. To settle in the UK, you will need to apply for legal permission to stay indefinitely, which will afford you the right to live, work, and study here without any immigration time restrictions. The main routes to settle […]
Human Rights Act 1998: Summary & What It Means in 2026
The Human Rights Act 1998 brought the rights set out in the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law and made them enforceable in domestic courts. It reshaped the relationship between individuals and the state by placing legal duties on public authorities and embedding human rights standards into everyday decision-making. This guide explains how […]
Managing Long-Term Sickness Absence
Long term sickness absence can quickly become challenging for employers, raising both practical and potentially legal issues. This is often the case where employers approach long-term absence reactively, dealing with issues only once they have escalated. For managers, it can be difficult to know in the circumstances what they should do to ensure they are […]