Do I Need a Biometric Card if I Have Indefinite Leave to Remain
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) is a form of settled status under UK immigration law that allows a person to live and work in the UK without time restrictions. It confirms the right to stay permanently, access public services and travel freely in and out of the UK without applying for further visas. ILR does […]
Home Office BRP Contact Number Guide
The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) was previously issued by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as a physical card used to confirm a person’s immigration status in the UK. BRPs have now, however, been phased out. The UK immigration system now uses digital eVisas as the standard method of confirming a person’s lawful stay. Despite the […]
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) 2026: Fees & Who Pays
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a fee that most individuals must pay when applying for a UK visa that grants permission to stay in the country for more than six months. The charge is paid as part of the visa application process and allows the applicant to access the National Health Service (NHS) during […]
Immigration Health Surcharge Refund
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a fee that most non-British nationals must pay when applying for a UK visa from overseas for more than six months or when applying from within the UK for any visa length beyond six months. The surcharge is intended to give visa holders access to NHS services on broadly […]
Homes for Ukraine: What Employers Should Know
The Homes for Ukraine scheme was launched by the UK government in March 2022 in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It provided a route for Ukrainian nationals and their immediate family members to come to the UK and stay for up to three years from the date of visa grant. The scheme allowed […]
TLScontact Login UK Visas 2026: Access Portal & How to Use
When applying for a UK visa from outside the United Kingdom, most applicants are required to attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre. These centres are operated by commercial partners appointed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). TLScontact is one of these providers, with visa application centres across Europe, parts of Asia, Africa, […]
Skilled Worker Route: An Employers Guide
As UK employers continue to face talent shortages across a range of sectors, the Skilled Worker route remains a vital mechanism for hiring qualified overseas nationals. Introduced in 2020 as a replacement for the Tier 2 (General) visa, this route allows UK-based organisations to employ non-British and non-Irish workers in eligible roles, provided they meet […]
Switch to Skilled Worker Visa Guide
For individuals already in the UK on a different type of visa, switching to a Skilled Worker Visa can offer several benefits. Switching to a Skilled Worker Visa not only allows you to work in the UK in an eligible role, it can also be a significant step in advancing your career, paving the way […]
Skilled Worker Tier 2 Dependent Visa Guide
The Tier 2 dependant visa, now replaced by the Skilled Worker dependant visa under the points-based immigration system, is the primary route for families to join a family member that has secured a sponsored role in the UK. While the dependant visa offers holders a number of benefits, it also comes with certain restrictions. In […]
Long Term Visa Options for the UK
There are many reasons why you might want to apply for a long term UK visa, including to work, to do business, to do a course of study or to join your relatives. Under the UK’s Immigration Rules, there are various long-term visa options for those looking to live, work, study or join family members […]