Hassle-free help from the UK's best Immigration solicitors.
Transparent pricing, from start to finishGet the support you need, when you need itTrusted lawyers, clear expectations
Transparent pricing, from start to finishGet the support you need, when you need itTrusted lawyers, clear expectations
Amazing experience
After placing an enquiry, I received a call 20 minutes later, and then 2 hours later, I had a solicitor assigned to me. They were absolutely incredible right from the word go - amazing and very prompt with replies, answering all my questions and keeping the process moving. We finally completed today and I am so unbelievably happy. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Lawhive again in the future if needed.
Lily
First class service
I initially made an online enquiry about a tricky conveyancing matter and received an immediate call back. They understood straight away what was needed and gave me a quote that was very reasonable. It was such a pleasure to find someone who was cheerful, professional and completely reassuring as I’d been getting quite anxious about the sale of my house. The service Lawhive has provided is absolutely first class and I cannot recommend them enough.
Charles
Empathetic, professional and efficient
I am an executor, selling my mother's home. I found the assistance I received from Lawhive first rate - empathetic, professional and efficient.
Mark
Great service from Lawhive
We used Lawhive for our conveyancing needs and our solicitor was very helpful, patient and informative. She helped us with our needs with prompt responses and provided a very efficient service.
Kelvin
Great service when you need clarity and calm
Our solicitor was warm, friendly and provided crystal clear communication. A lot of conveyancers assume customers know everything about the process already, so it was really appreciated to hear each stage included in the price given.
Em
Quick and efficient
We used Lawhive for a transfer of property and conveyancing. Our solicitor was so helpful and thorough with the whole process. He responded quickly and efficiently to any questions or requests that we had and explained some of the more complicated issues regarding the process clearly.
Geri
Fantastic service and experience with Lawhive
I had the pleasure of working with Lawhive doing a transfer of equity on a property. Our solicitor’s service was amazing, she responded quickly to any questions or concerns and kept me updated throughout the process. I can strongly recommend her for any conveyancing work that you may need. Fantastic service all round.
Jane
Amazing experience
After placing an enquiry, I received a call 20 minutes later, and then 2 hours later, I had a solicitor assigned to me. They were absolutely incredible right from the word go - amazing and very prompt with replies, answering all my questions and keeping the process moving. We finally completed today and I am so unbelievably happy. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Lawhive again in the future if needed.
Lily
First class service
I initially made an online enquiry about a tricky conveyancing matter and received an immediate call back. They understood straight away what was needed and gave me a quote that was very reasonable. It was such a pleasure to find someone who was cheerful, professional and completely reassuring as I’d been getting quite anxious about the sale of my house. The service Lawhive has provided is absolutely first class and I cannot recommend them enough.
Charles
Empathetic, professional and efficient
I am an executor, selling my mother's home. I found the assistance I received from Lawhive first rate - empathetic, professional and efficient.
Mark
Great service from Lawhive
We used Lawhive for our conveyancing needs and our solicitor was very helpful, patient and informative. She helped us with our needs with prompt responses and provided a very efficient service.
Kelvin
Great service when you need clarity and calm
Our solicitor was warm, friendly and provided crystal clear communication. A lot of conveyancers assume customers know everything about the process already, so it was really appreciated to hear each stage included in the price given.
Em
Quick and efficient
We used Lawhive for a transfer of property and conveyancing. Our solicitor was so helpful and thorough with the whole process. He responded quickly and efficiently to any questions or requests that we had and explained some of the more complicated issues regarding the process clearly.
Geri
Fantastic service and experience with Lawhive
I had the pleasure of working with Lawhive doing a transfer of equity on a property. Our solicitor’s service was amazing, she responded quickly to any questions or concerns and kept me updated throughout the process. I can strongly recommend her for any conveyancing work that you may need. Fantastic service all round.
Jane
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01 overview
The UK immigration system can be confusing. Whether you're planning to join your family, start a new job, or study here, securing the right visa is important.
Entry clearance means getting permission to come to the UK. But for many, understanding the entry clearance process, with all its legal requirements and documentation, can cause considerable stress and uncertainty.
At Lawhive, we understand the anxiety that comes with the entry clearance process. The fear of making mistakes, or not understanding the requirements can be overwhelming. That's why we're here to simplify the journey for you. Combining the efficiency of our cutting-edge, easy-to-use online platform with the expertise of a regulated law firm, we offer a quick and affordable way to handle your entry clearance application.
Our network of experienced immigration lawyers is on hand to provide clear, personalised advice for your situation.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation to discuss your entry clearance needs and how we can assist you.
Entry clearance is the process that decides whether a non-UK national can enter the United Kingdom either to work, study, join family, or come on holiday.
Entry clearance helps the UK government control the number of people entering the country and ensures only individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria enter the UK.
It enables the authorities to verify and control the reasons for which people are entering the UK, whether for tourism, work, study, or family reunification.
Entry clearance involves applying for a visa that matches your intended purpose of travel to the UK. This could include work, student, family, or visitor visas.
Each visa category has specific eligibility criteria, supporting documents, and conditions that must be met for the application to be approved.
Entry clearance is an assessment conducted by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to decide if someone meets the requirements to enter the UK and will follow immigration rules.
It involves a detailed evaluation of the applicant's background, including their financial situation, criminal history (if applicable), and intentions for staying in the UK.
Applicants must provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a digital photograph, as part of their entry clearance application.
For stays longer than six months, applicants receive a Biometric Residence Permit on arrival in the UK, which includes their biometric information and details of their immigration status.
Entry clearance applications require supporting documents including proof of identity, financial stability, accommodation arrangements, and other evidence relevant to the visa type.
UKVI processes entry clearance applications by reviewing the provided information and documents to decide if the applicant meets the entry requirements.
If approved, the applicant receives an entry clearance visa, typically in the form of a 'vignette' (sticker) in their passport, specifying the duration and conditions of their stay in the UK.
Most non-UK nationals planning to travel to the UK for work, study, family reunification, or other long-term purposes need to apply for entry clearance.
Visitors from certain countries may also require entry clearance.
Entry clearance is usually required for:
The UK offers a variety of entry clearance visas, each catering to different purposes and applicant profiles.
| Work Visas | Skilled Worker Visa : For individuals with a job offer in the UK from an approved employer. Applicants must meet specific skill and salary thresholds. Global Talent Visa: For leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, and digital technology. Requires an endorsement from a recognised UK body. Health and Care Worker Visa: For medical professionals with a job offer from the NHS or other healthcare-related employers. Innovator Founder Visa : For entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea endorsed by an approved body. |
| Study Visas | Student Visa : For individuals accepted to study at a recognised UK educational institution. Applicants must show proof of admission and sufficient funds to support themselves. Child Student Visa: For children aged 4 to 17 to study at an independent school in the UK. Short-term Study Visa: For short courses or English language courses lasting up to 11 months. |
| Family Visas | Spouse/Partner Visa : For individuals joining their spouse or partner who is a British citizen or has settled status in the UK. Requires proof of relationship and financial stability. Parent of a Child Visa: For parents of a child who is a UK resident or has settled status. Dependent Relative Visa: For elderly parents or grandparents needing long-term care in the UK. |
| Visitor Visas | Standard Visitor Visa : For tourism, visiting family or friends, business, or short-term study. Typically allows stays of up to six months. Marriage Visitor Visa: For individuals coming to the UK to get married or enter into a civil partnership. |
| Other Types of Visas | Youth Mobility Scheme Visa: For young people from certain countries to live and work in the UK for up to two years. UK Ancestry Visa : For Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK, allowing them to live and work in the UK. Transit Visa: For individuals passing through the UK en route to another country. |
Each visa type has specific eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and application procedures.
Applying for entry clearance to the UK involves applying for the appropriate visa. There are several steps to the process.
The type of visa you apply for depends on your reason for coming to the UK.
Common visa categories include:
If you are a founder or leader in a particular field, the Innovator Founder Visa or Global Talent Visa may be more appropriate, depending on your skills and business plans.
Regardless of which visa type is right for you, each category has specific eligibility criteria, such as English language proficiency, you may need to meet. So, before making your application you should check that you do.
Types of documentation you may need to support your visa and entry clearance application include:
In most cases, you can apply online through the UK government's official application website by selecting the appropriate visa category.
During the application process, you have to provide your details, passport information, and information about your previous travel, visa, and immigration history.
You will also have to explain the reason for your visit and provide supporting information specific to your chosen visa type.
All visa types require a fee, which you can usually pay online using a credit or debit card. The fee you have to pay will depend on your visa type and length of stay.
You may also have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. This covers access to the National Health Service in the UK and the amount varies based on the length of your visa.
After submitting your application, you will need to book an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your fingerprints and have your photograph taken.
This is required for most visa applications.
The processing times for visas and entry clearance varies can range from a few weeks to several months.
You should be able to use the online tracking service to monitor the status of your application. However, you will be notified via email or text message when a decision is made.
If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa vignette attached.
If your stay is longer than six months, you will also be able to collect your Biometric Residence Permit within 10 days of arriving in the UK.
At Lawhive, we provide expert support to maximise the success of your visa and entry clearance application.
Our network of expert immigration solicitors can help you determine the most appropriate visa for your needs and make sure you meet all eligibility requirements.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation and find out how we can assist with your entry clearance application.
There is no legal requirement to use an immigration solicitor for an entry clearance application to the UK.
However, the UK visa application process can be complex and demanding, with very specific requirements and strict deadlines. As such, professional legal assistance and advice can significantly increase your chances of success, particularly if you aren't sure which visa is appropriate for you.
Each visa category has unique eligibility criteria and documentation requirements. Furthermore, immigration laws and policies frequently change.
A solicitor has expert knowledge of these requirements, in line with the latest regulations, and can help you make sure your application is correct and complies with current rules.
Everyone's reasons for coming to the UK are different. As such, it can be tricky to know which visa type is right for your situation.
Solicitors provide advice tailored to your circumstances. Most importantly, helping you understand which visa type is most appropriate for your needs and how to meet all the requirements.
Errors can slow your entry clearance application down, or even cause it to be rejected.
Solicitors can help you complete your application form accurately and review all supporting documents to make sure they meet UKVI standards and are complete and properly formatted.
Furthermore, if any issues come up during the application process, your solicitor can advise and help you address them quickly to avoid delays.
Visa and entry clearance applications can be stressful and overwhelming, especially if the stakes are high.
Knowing that your application is being handled by an experienced legal professional can provide significant peace of mind, alleviating stress even if challenges come up.
Further, solicitors act as your advocate through the application process, representing your interests and ensuring your case is presented effectively.
The timeline for processing an entry clearance application varies based on the type of visa, the applicant's country of origin, and the volume of applications being processed at the time.
As you might expect, certain times of the year may see higher application volumes, leading to longer processing times.
If you are in urgent need of a decision, there are priority services that may be available to you, which can significantly reduce processing times. However, there are additional costs for these services which you should take into account.
Yes, the visa and entry clearance application is usually done online.
Attending an interview is not always mandatory for entry clearance applications but can be required in certain circumstances.
For example, applicants for spousal visas may have to attend an interview to verify the authenticity of their relationship with their UK-based partner. Further, visas such as the Innovator Visa might require applicants to be interviewed to assess the viability of business plans or the legitimacy of their investment intentions.
Occasionally, applicants from any country might be selected randomly for an interview as part of UKVI’s quality control measures.
Receiving a refusal for your entry clearance application can be disheartening, but you may be able to appeal the decision or reapply with additional evidence.
Common reasons for refusal include missing or incomplete supporting documents or failure to meet the visa category's eligibility criteria.
Depending on the reason for your entry clearance application refusal, reapplying may be the quickest way to address the problem. New evidence or changes in your circumstances can also strengthen your application, improving your chances of success.
In some cases, you may have the right to appeal an entry clearance application refusal.
An experienced immigration solicitor can provide valuable insights into why your application was refused and advise on the best course of action.
At Lawhive, we combine the efficiency of a tech-driven platform with the expertise of a law firm to provide quick, thorough support for your entry clearance application.
Our network of experienced immigration solicitors offers remote consultations to help you understand your visa options and eligibility. Further, should you decide to move forward with your application, they are on hand to review your application and supporting documents.
Our user-friendly online platform simplifies the application process, allowing you to upload documents, track progress, and communicate with your lawyer quickly and easily.
We offer high-quality legal services at a fraction of the cost of traditional firms, making professional help with entry clearance applications accessible and affordable.
Our transparent pricing structure means no hidden fees, so you know exactly what you're paying for and can budget with confidence.
To get started, contact our Legal Assessment Team for a free case evaluation and get a complimentary no-obligation quote for the services of a specialist lawyer.
With straightforward pricing - so you know exactly what to expect at every step.
