To those planning to submit a UK immigration application this year, the corona virus lock-down couldn’t have come at a worse time. UK visa application centres around the world have closed their doors and most flights have been cancelled, making it much more difficult to apply for a visa, a visa extension or even ILR or citizenship.

Immigration solicitors have given the following advice to those that would have otherwise applied for their visa this spring: We can still help you submit your application;however, we won’t be able to book you in for a biometric appointment and we cannot yet submit documents in support of your application. Those final steps will need to wait until lockdown restrictions ease.

However, as we are expecting a great surge in visa applications once visa centres open again, we would strongly recommend any person who wishes to apply for a visa, or who must apply for an extension this year to apply sooner rather than later.

This advice also applies to businesses. Businesses in the UK who wish to employ workers from outside of the UK must have a sponsorship licence in place. Many businesses are dependent on EU workers, often for seasonal work. Not having the necessary sponsorship licence in place will leave a business and the business owner open to large fines and in some cases even imprisonment.

Why use an immigration solicitor

Any visa, ILR or British citizenship application can be made by you, without the expert advice and support from a solicitor. However, processes are complex, and the rules as set out by the Home Office are strict, and even a small mistake can lead to your application being rejected.

If your visa is rejected, you often still have options. You may be able to apply for an appeal or you maybe able to apply for a new visa. Which option is best for you will depend on the circumstances and the reasons for the rejection.

In general, the most common reasons for visa applications to be refused are:

• Failing to meet the English language requirements
• Incorrect organisation of your documents / or missing documents
• Insufficient evidence of a relationship – in case you’re applying for a spouse visa or other type of dependent visa)
• Applying for the wrong visa
• Failure to disclose convictions (i.e. you spend time in prison)

In order to be successful in your visa application you must provide the Home Office with the necessary evidence to back up the statements made in your application. If you fail to do so, they are unlikely to grant you your visa.

In many cases you can appeal a decision made by the Home Office. However, it’s important to note that an appeal isn’t a simple process. It can take months, depending on the current backlog, and can cost you a lot more money. For an appeal to be successful you are highly recommended to use a UK immigration solicitor to support you.