UK Visas &
Immigration Guides
Everything you need to understand the UK immigration system — from choosing the right visa to reaching settlement and citizenship. Clear, accurate and updated for 2026.
Information only — not legal advice. All guides explain UK immigration rules based on GOV.UK guidance and cannot be relied upon for your specific situation. For individual case advice consult an OISC-regulated immigration adviser or solicitor. Find a regulated adviser →
The UK operates a points-based immigration system that applies to all non-British and non-Irish nationals. Whether you are coming to work, study, join family, or settle permanently, you will need a specific visa — and each route has its own eligibility rules, costs and permitted activities.
This section covers every major UK immigration route, explained clearly and without jargon. Each category links to in-depth guides covering eligibility, application steps, costs, processing times and what happens next — all verified against the latest GOV.UK guidance.
Unsure which route applies to you? Use the visa finder tool below, or browse the categories to find the one that matches your situation.
The Points-Based System
Choose your immigration route
Eight categories covering every major UK visa and immigration route, from first-time applicants to those on the path to British citizenship.
Work Visas
Skilled Worker, Health & Care, Global Talent, Graduate, Scale-up and Youth Mobility. For those moving to the UK through employment.
Family Visas
Spouse, partner, fiancé(e), dependent children and parents. For those reuniting with family already settled in the UK.
Student Visas
Student Visa for degree-level study, Child Student Visa, and the Graduate Visa for post-study work rights in the UK.
Visitor Visas
Standard Visitor, Business Visitor, Marriage Visitor and Transit Visa. For short stays of up to 6 months in the UK.
Settlement & ILR
Indefinite Leave to Remain, British Citizenship, Life in the UK Test, EU Settled Status and the route to a British passport.
Entry & Border
UK ETA, eVisa, BRP and what to expect at UK border control. The digital documents replacing physical immigration permits.
Business Visas
Innovator Founder, Global Business Mobility, Scale-up and routes for entrepreneurs, investors and company founders.
Refusals & Appeals
What to do if your visa is refused. Appeals, administrative review and next steps — with signposting to regulated legal advice.
Not sure which visa you need?
Answer two quick questions and we'll point you to the right category and guide for your situation.
Guidance only. Always verify requirements on GOV.UK before applying.
Essential immigration guides
ILR: Indefinite Leave to Remain — Complete 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know about applying for permanent UK residency — eligibility, the Life in the UK Test, costs and timelines.
Skilled Worker Visa 2026: Requirements, Costs & How to Apply
Salary thresholds, sponsor licences, application steps and the path to settlement for overseas workers.
UK Spouse & Partner Visa: Requirements, Costs & 5-Year Route to ILR
Financial requirements, evidence needed, processing times and the settlement pathway for partner visas.
Latest rule changes
UK immigration rules update regularly. Recent changes that may affect your application.
Immigration Health Surcharge rises to £1,035 per year
The IHS increase applies to all new applications from February 2026. Existing visa holders are not affected until renewal.
ETA now required for all US, Canadian and Australian visitors
From 8 January 2026, visitors from these nationalities must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation before travelling to the UK.
BRP cards phased out — all residents must switch to eVisa
Physical Biometric Residence Permits are no longer valid. All long-term residents must have a UKVI online account to prove immigration status.
Skilled Worker salary threshold raised to £38,700
The minimum salary requirement for most Skilled Worker roles increased significantly in April 2024, affecting all new applications.
Need professional help?
Our directory connects you with OISC-regulated immigration advisers, solicitors and relocation specialists.
Stay ahead of rule changes
UK immigration rules update regularly. Get notified when something changes that could affect your visa, application or status.
UK immigration FAQs
Answers to the most common questions about UK visas and immigration rules.
These answers are for general guidance only. For advice on your specific case please consult a regulated immigration adviser.