Additional information

Key stages in UK immigration applications


Our lawyers provide strategic alternatives and procedural timing options right for the circumstances of each client, and although the majority of immigration applications follow three key stages, the timeframe for each will depend on the type of application, country where the application is being submitted, the type of service chosen and any specific complexities related to the matter.

Stage Activity Timeframe
Stage 1 Obtaining instructions, providing strategic advice and preparation of application. Factoring in the needs of each client, the completion of stage 1 can take from a few days to a few weeks/months depending on the individual circumstances and the timings of the strategic plan agreed.
Stage 2 Submission of application, consideration and decision-making by the Home Office. Home Office processing times can vary between 24 hours to more than six months, depending on the type of application, the availability of premium services, the country from which the application is made, and any case-specific complexities. For an indication of the most recent Home Office processing times please click here.
Stage 3 Post-decision advice. Once an application has been decided we promptly provide post-decision advice, explaining the next steps.

*Please note that some applications may have additional stages. For example, Global Talent applications and certain other routes require prior endorsements, while applications under the Skilled Worker, Global Business Mobility and Temporary Work routes require the sponsor to hold a sponsorship licence.

Scope of services and fees


Fee arrangements
Our firm does not provide a generic service. Rather, we understand that each client is unique and in order to meet your individual priorities and preferences we must offer a personalised service with specifically tailored solutions.

Once we understand the issues, complexities and urgencies of your case, we will provide a bespoke quote. The majority of our work is charged on a fixed fee basis, ensuring transparency from the outset.

For our average fee ranges and applicable disbursements (including Home Office fees and other charges payable to third parties), please refer to each of our service pages.

We apply an administrative fee of £100 plus VAT to cover the costs of establishing you as a client, including mandatory compliance with our regulatory body’s requirements. VAT (where applicable) at 20% is charged separately.

Scope of work
Our fixed fees typically include:

  • taking your instructions;
  • familiarising ourselves with your circumstances, priorities and immigration goals;
  • assessing the available routes and developing a tailored strategic plan;
  • providing you with detailed written advice on the criteria, evidence and procedural requirements for your application, including (where appropriate) liaising with relevant parties to obtain suitable documentation
  • preparing the relevant application form;
  • reviewing all supporting documentation;
  • providing written supporting legal representations to be submitted with your application;
  • liaising with the Home Office as required with regard to the application; and
  • providing you with further detailed written advice on the next steps once the application has been decided.

Latest Insights


Upcoming changes to Long Residence route from 11 April 2024

Changes are being made from 11 April 2024 to the ‘Long Residence’ route which allows individuals resident in the UK continuously and legally for 10…

Assigning CoS now to beat the salary increase

As summarised by our team last week, the Home Office confirmed in its Statement of Changes that the general salary threshold for most applicants in…

US News | Anti-discrimination Requirements During the PERM Recruitment Process

The fundamental basis of the full PERM process is to establish that a foreign worker will not displace a U.S. worker for the position being offered.…