Immigration to Another CountryUnited Kingdom
The UK has introduced a number of new UK immigration, naturalization, UK visa, work permit and UK working visa categories in the last few years. The points based skilled immigration category the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) introduced in January 2002 has proved to be very successful.
There is also a new low skilled UK work permit category for the sectors based visa. There are likely to be further UK immigration changes soon that will allow even more people to gain entry to the UK. We will keep you up to date on all these UK work visa, work permits for UK and UK immigration developments.
FAQ'S
Where can I get an application form?
You can download most application forms from this website. If you cannot find the form you are looking for, or cannot download one for any reason, please contact the Application Forms Unit on 0870 241 0645.
Where can I get advice on how to complete my application form?
You can telephone the Immigration and Nationality Enquiry Bureau on 0870 606 7766.
How can I get my new passport stamped if my old one is lost, is stolen or has expired?
Please note that it is no longer possible for us to process postal applications for limited leave to remain in, or to enter, the UK to be transferred into a new passport. This service, which is free of charge, is available only to personal applicants at each of the Public Enquiry Offices. There is no application form for this type of application. When applying, you should provide your old passport, or a Home Office letter, or a Police Crime Report if previous passport was lost or stolen and your new passport.
If you were granted indefinite leave to remain only by letter and want it transferred into a passport, this service is free of charge and you therefore don't have to use Form NTL. In cases of this sort, you should send your passport and the original Home Office letter to the Immigration and Nationality Directorate, Lunar House, 40 Wellesley Road, Croydon CR9 2BY.
But if you were granted indefinite leave and want it transferred into a new passport, this service is not free of charge and you should therefore use Form NTL (see "Making an application" page for more details).
Please note that this information does not apply to the transfer of status under European law. Such applications may be made only by post to Immigration and Nationality Directorate, European Casework Unit, 18th Floor, Lunar House, 40 Wellesley Road, Croydon CR9 2BY.
How long will my application take?
The length of time it takes for us to process your application depends entirely on the circumstances of your case.
Can I apply in person?
You can apply in person at one of our public enquiry offices in Croydon, Birmingham, Glasgow or Liverpool.
Can I send photocopied documents with my application?
If you can, send original documents. We will only accept photocopied documents in exceptional circumstances.
Can I have my passport returned before my case has been decided?
If you have your passport returned, we will consider your application to have been withdrawn.
I have permission to stay in the UK as a visitor on a six-month visa. Can I stay longer than six months?
As a visitor, you cannot stay beyond the maximum six months. You cannot apply for a new six-month visa until you leave the UK.
Do I need a visa or entry clearance to enter the UK?
Not everyone needs a visa or entry clearance to enter the UK. You can check whether you need a visa by visiting the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website. You should apply for your visa before you come to the UK by contacting a British Embassy or High Commission. You can find out more information on the UK visas web site.
If I have a visa or entry clearance, will I automatically be allowed to enter the UK?
From October 2000, we treat entry clearances issued overseas as being permission to enter. Having a visa or entry clearance will normally allow you entry into the UK. However, an immigration officer has the power to refuse you entry if they have reason to believe you have broken the Immigration Rules.
Does the Immigration and Nationality Directorate issue passports?
The Immigration and Nationality Directorate does not issue passports. If you are British, or have recently been granted British nationality, you will need to apply to the Passport Agency for your passport. If you are a foreign national you can apply at your Embassy or High Commission.
Do I need a legal adviser when I make an immigration application?
You do not need a legal adviser to make an immigration application. However, you may find it helpful to take advice. There are many organisations that can help you. We recommend that you read our guide on getting immigration advice as there are laws relating to immigration advisers.
My leave to remain will soon expire - when can I apply for an extension?
You should apply six weeks before your leave expires. Your case will not be considered any earlier than one month before it runs out.
My circumstances have changed. Can I vary the terms of leave?
If your circumstances change, you should contact the Home Office as soon as possible. If you fail to tell us of a change that may affect your immigration status, you may be committing an offence and could be removed from the UK.
Our thanks to Sunrise International Legal Services, a recognized leader in the field of immigration with over 35 years of experience at helping guide people through the process of immigration. For more information, please visit their website.