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Frequently Asked Questions
Our goal is to offer not only exceptional legal representation but also an effective understanding of the entire process for our clients.
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We have compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions from our clients. This FAQ section is designed to provide you with quick and reliable solutions to your immigration queries, ensuring that you have access to the information you need to navigate your immigration journey with confidence.
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How can I schedule a consultation?Scheduling a consultation is easy. You can contact us through our website, call our office, or send us an email. We offer both in-person and virtual consultations to accommodate your schedule and preferences.
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What sets Victorimax Legal apart from other immigration law firms?Our personalised approach, extensive experience, and commitment to excellence set us apart. We prioritise our clients' needs and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcomes. Our proven track record of success speaks to our dedication and expertise.
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How long does the immigration process take?The duration of the immigration process varies depending on the type of application and individual circumstances. During your consultation, we can provide a more specific timeline based on your case.
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What services do you offer?We offer a wide range of immigration services, including assistance with skilled worker visas, spouse and family visas, expansion worker visa, sponsor licences, citizenship applications, asylum cases, and many more. Our experienced lawyers provide personalised legal strategies to meet your specific needs.
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What happens if I need to change my immigration status?Changing your immigration status involves specific procedures and requirements. Our lawyers will guide you through the process, ensuring that you meet all necessary criteria and complete the required paperwork accurately and efficiently.
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How much do your services cost?Our fees scale can be easily found on our website under the 'Our Fees' tab. However, our fees may vary depending on the complexity of your case and the services required. We offer transparent pricing and will provide a detailed fee structure during your consultation.
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How do I know if I qualify for a specific visa or immigration status?The qualifications for different visas and immigration statuses can be complex and vary widely. During your consultation, we will assess your situation, discuss your goals, and determine the best options available to you.
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Can you help if my visa application has been denied?Yes, we can assist with visa denials. Our experienced lawyers will review your case, identify the reasons for the denial, and develop a strategy to address these issues, whether through appeals, reapplications, or other legal avenues.
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What should I bring to my consultation?For your consultation, please bring any relevant documents, such as passports, visas, employment records, and any correspondence from immigration authorities. This will help us better understand your case and provide more accurate advice.
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We got married outside of the UK, will the UK recognise our marriage?The courts in England and Wales recognise foreign marriages if the marriage is a legally recognised marriage in the country where you were married (this may include marriages formed by local customs), both parties had capacity to get married and the marriage was permitted by the country.
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How do I approve the accommodation requirements?Our team can assist you with the requirements of appropriate accommodation.
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Will I be able to work in the UK when I am here as a Spouse?Yes. Those who are granted leave in the Spouse category have a full right to work in the UK.
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When can I apply for a British passport?When you first granted leave under the spouse visa category (5 year route) you will be granted a period of two and a half years (plus an additional three months if applying for Entry Clearance). You will then have to make an extension application before the expiry of this leave and will be granted a further two and a half years. You may then qualify for indefinite leave to remain in the UK which can be followed by an application to naturalize as a British Citizen, provided you meet all requirements.
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What if one partner has children?These children can also apply as dependants. This will however modify minimum requirements.
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How do I make a UK Spouse visa application?Applications in the spouse visa category are made using an online application form. There is a different application form, depending on whether you are intending to apply from inside the UK or abroad.
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Can we live in shared accommodation or with relatives when I get my spouse visa?Yes. This should not be an issue as long as the property's owner has given you permission to live there and your presence will not result in it becoming over crowded. Depending on your situation, different types of evidence will be required to demonstrate this. For professional advice, you may consult our experienced Immigration Lawyers.
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What happens if my Spouse visa application is refused?If your application is refused you should have a right of appeal. This is because a spouse application is automatically deemed a human rights claim. The appeal will be heard at the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber) in the UK. If you are in the UK, you and your spouse will be able to attend and give evidence before the Judge. If you are outside of the UK, your sponsor spouse will be able to attend, but you can write a statement and provide evidence for the Tribunal to consider. Again, we recommend seeking legal advice and representation from our specialist immigration appeal lawyers before appealing against a decision to refuse a spouse visa application.
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What about same-sex couples?Yes, same-sex couples have the same rights as a straight couple do.
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What if we have not been living together for 2 years but have been in a relationship for that time?We have had success in applying for those with less than 2 years co-habitation, but this can be difficult. We can of course advise, based on your circumstances.
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How do I obtain a job offer in the United Kingdom?You will need to apply for job roles in the normal way. In order for you to relocate to the UK for that job, your employer must have a sponsorship licence.
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If I have a work visa for the UK, can my family and I use the NHS?Yes, you are required to pay a fee to the NHS as part of the visa application process which will allow you to register when you are in the United Kingdom. This fee is known as the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
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Can my children attend school in the UK if I am on a work visa?Yes, they are permitted to attend state and fee-paying schools without restrictions.
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Can my partner work a full-time job in the UK if I bring them here?Yes, if they so choose, partners can work in the United Kingdom.
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As a UK Business owner, why should I obtain a Sponsorship Licence?You are required to obtain a Sponsorship Licence to hire a Non-UK national for your UK based business.
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Can I come to the UK without a job offer or worker permit?No, if you do not have a specific tier 1 visa, you cannot come to the UK simply to look for a job.
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As a UK Business owner with a sponsor licence, how long do I need to advertise for before I can hire a foreign national?There is no longer a specified duration for which you must advertise the role. As long as your vacancy is genuine, you can hire a foreign national straight away under the sponsorship scheme.
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How many days can you stay outside the UK under ILR?ILR in the UK is subject to the 180-days rule. This is used to calculate the amount of qualifying absence for your ILR eligibility. You must have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months. There are several ways to demonstrate your travel history in the UK. For example, you can produce flight tickets or statements from your employer in the event of business travels.
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I have ancestral links to the UK through grandparents, can I apply for a British passport?Potentially, yes. There are a number of options for those with ancestral links to the UK – some allow for nationality to be granted straight away, others allow for visa status to be granted on the basis of UK ancestry.
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What's the difference between British citizenship and a British passport?Once you have obtained British Citizenship, you will receive a certificate confirming this status. If you wish to apply for a British passport soon after, this can be done without a great deal of trouble. Victorimax Legal can help you with both citizenship and acquiring your passport.
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If my country does not allow for dual nationality, can I remain an indefinite leave holder?Yes. If your home country does not allow for dual nationality, your indefinite leave status will not be affected by this.
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When can I apply for ILR?Your ILR application is time sensitive, meaning you must submit your application before your current leave to remain in the UK expires. However, you can file your ILR application not more than 28 days in advance of the date you would complete your eligible period.
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I am a full time student in the UK, will I qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain?You may, depending on you personal circumstance. Kindly reach out to us so that we can advise you.
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What is the difference between ILR and citizenship?Although Indefinite Leave to Remain allows you to reside in the UK free from immigration restrictions, it is not the same as citizenship. ILR is a mandatory prerequisite to settle and get your British Passport. Most importantly, you can lose your ILR if you spend more than 2 years away from the country. On the contrary, UK citizens are free to travel and spend as much time as they like abroad. ILR status allows an unlimited stay in the UK, with access to NHS services, whereas British citizenship includes all this but introduces many more benefits that a British citizen would have.
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If I have Indefinite Leave to Remain, will my children be British?Children born in the UK where parents hold indefinite leave to remain can apply to be British straight away.
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