UK Immigration & Visa Solicitors
At GreatWest Law Solicitors, we specialise in UK immigration law, providing expert legal assistance for individuals, families, and businesses. Based in London, our team of highly qualified immigration solicitors and caseworkers are dedicated to offering professional, efficient, and reliable services nationwide. We deliver tailored solutions via in-person consultations, phone discussions, and video link meetings.
Services
We offer comprehensive immigration services, including but not limited to:
Spouse Visa, Fiancé Visa, Civil Partner Visa
Child Dependent Visa, Adult Dependent Relative Visa
ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
ILR through Domestic Violence
Visa Extensions
Retaining Rights of Residence
UK Sole Representative Visa
UK Start-up Visa
UK Investor Visa
UK Business Expansion
Sponsor Licence Application
EU Settlement Status
What We Do
At GreatWest Law Solicitors, we understand that immigration law is constantly evolving. Our solicitors stay fully up to date with the latest Home Office policies, Immigration Rules, and case law, ensuring that every client receives precise, current, and strategic advice. Whether you are applying to join family members, seeking to work or study in the UK, or facing refusal or deportation proceedings, we offer clear guidance and professional advocacy throughout the process.
We provide sensitive yet firm support for individuals seeking to join or remain with family members in the UK.
Spouse/Partner Visas
Applications under Appendix FM for partners and spouses seeking to join or remain with their UK-based family members.
Child Visas
Applications for children, including those based on dependency or private life.
Parent of a Child Visas
For a parent of a child who is a British citizen or settled in the UK, where the applicant does not qualify via the Partner route. Focusing on proving genuine and subsisting parental relationship and direct access or responsibility for the child, providing assistance for parents seeking leave to remain based on their relationship with a qualifying child in the UK.
Human Rights Claims (Article 8):
Expert preparation of cases based on the Right to Respect for Private and Family Life, often used where the applicant does not meet the strict requirements of the Immigration Rules.
We assist both individuals securing employment and businesses fulfilling their need for skilled international talent.
Skilled Worker Visas
Guidance for both employees and sponsoring businesses applying under the points-based system.
Global Talent Visas
Supporting exceptionally talented individuals in science, arts, or digital technology.
Innovator Founder Visas
Assistance for those seeking to set up an innovative business in the UK.
Sponsor Licence Applications & Compliance
Comprehensive service for UK businesses applying for a sponsor licence and ongoing advice on compliance duties to avoid penalties.
Student Visas (formerly Tier 4):
Applications for those wishing to study at a licensed educational institution.
Standard Visitor Visas
Applications for tourism, business visits, short-term study, or private medical treatment.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Applications for permanent residence through various routes (e.g., 5-year partner route, 5-year work route, or 10-year long residence route).
British Citizenship
Applications for Naturalisation (for adults) and Registration (for minors).
Returning Resident Visas
Assistance for former residents who wish to return to the UK.
Immigration Detention & Bail
Urgent, hands-on action to challenge unlawful detention and secure immediate release through bail applications.
Appeals to the First-tier and Upper Tribunal
Robust representation and preparation of grounds for appeal against adverse Home Office decisions.
Administrative Review
Preparing detailed challenges to correct case working errors in eligibility applications.
Judicial Review
Initiating High Court proceedings for challenges that fall outside the standard appeals process.
Deportation & Removal Cases
Strategic defense against removal or deportation proceedings, including human rights submissions.
Following Brexit, many EEA nationals and their families require status under the EU Settlement Scheme. Some cases involve late applications, derivative rights, durable partners or retained rights of residence.
We assist with complex or late applications, appeals, and evidential issues, including demonstrating durable relationships or dependency. We correct deficiencies in documentation and ensure compliance with post-Brexit requirements.
Benefits We Provide
Not VAT Registered
The outcome of your immigration case is critical to your future. Choosing the right legal partner is essential. Here is why clients across London and the UK entrust their cases to GreatWest Law Solicitors.
Experienced Immigration Specialists
Our solicitors possess extensive experience across the full spectrum of immigration law — from straightforward visa applications to complex appeals and judicial reviews. We understand Home Office procedures, common refusal reasons, and the evidential standards required to succeed. Every case is handled by a qualified solicitor, not delegated to unregulated advisers.
Ethical and Regulated Practice
We are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) with registration no: 8011092 and bound by strict professional standards. Every matter is treated with confidentiality, integrity, and respect. We act with sensitivity in all immigration and asylum matters, ensuring that every client — regardless of background or circumstances — receives fair, lawful, and professional representation.
Transparent Fees and Accessible Service
We operate a clear and transparent fee structure with fixed-fee options for most immigration applications. All costs are explained in writing before work begins. We also offer flexible payment plans where appropriate. Our communication is prompt and accessible — clients can reach us by phone, email, or secure video consultation regardless of location.
Strong Advocacy and Representation
Should your application be refused or delayed, we provide expert representation before the Immigration Tribunal and higher courts. We prepare written grounds of appeal, witness statements, and legal arguments that comply with procedural and evidential rules. Our advocacy is firm, professional, and based on legal merit rather than formality.
Commitment to Clear Communication
Our clients receive straightforward, practical advice. We explain complex legal issues in plain English and keep you updated at every stage. You will work directly with an experienced solicitor who understands the importance of efficiency, responsiveness, and accuracy. We meet deadlines without compromising attention to detail.
Strategic and Proactive Advice
Our approach is proactive, not reactive. We identify potential issues at an early stage — such as gaps in residence, financial requirements, or overstays — and resolve them before submission. This strategic preparation significantly increases success rates and reduces delays or refusals.
Tailored Legal Solutions
We recognise that no two immigration cases are alike. Whether you are an individual applicant, a family reuniting in the UK, or an employer seeking to sponsor overseas workers, our advice is carefully tailored to your goals, background, and eligibility. We prepare applications meticulously, ensuring every supporting document and statement aligns with the relevant Immigration Rules and policy guidance.
Client-Focused Professionalism
Our clients value our integrity, transparency, and results-driven service. We build lasting relationships through reliability and clear communication. Much of our work comes from repeat clients and referrals, a reflection of our commitment to professional excellence and trust-based representation.
FAQs
Are you regulated?
Yes, we are a UK solicitor firm regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) with registration no: 8011092. This ensures we adhere to the highest professional standards, ethics, and conduct rules set for legal practitioners in England and Wales.
Do I need a solicitor to apply for a UK visa?
While it is not legally mandatory, the UK Immigration Rules are complex and constantly changing. Using a specialist solicitor significantly reduces the risk of refusal due to technical errors, incomplete documentation, or incorrect application routes. We ensure your application is submitted correctly and strategically.
How long does the visa application process typically take?
The processing time varies significantly depending on the visa type (e.g., family, work, settlement) and whether you apply from inside or outside the UK. We will advise you on the current standard processing times and available priority services during your consultation.
What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
ILR is a common term for settlement, which grants you the right to live, work, and study in the UK without any time restrictions. It is the crucial step before applying for British citizenship.
What does the "Continuous Residence" rule mean for my ILR application?
The rule dictates that you must not have spent more than a certain number of days (usually 180 days) outside the UK in any 12-month period during your qualifying residence period (usually 5 or 10 years). We meticulously check your travel history to confirm compliance.
What is the minimum income required for a Spouse or Partner Visa?
The minimum income threshold for a Spouse/Partner visa under the Appendix FM route is currently £29,000 per annum (as of early 2024, subject to planned changes). This can be met through employment income, savings, or a combination of both.
Can you help my UK business apply for a Sponsor Licence?
Yes. We guide UK businesses through the entire Sponsor Licence application process, including preparing the necessary documentation, ensuring your HR systems are compliant with Home Office duties, and assigning a suitable team of key personnel (Authorising Officer, Key Contact, Level 1 User).
What is the "Genuine and Subsisting Relationship" requirement?
For family visas (like the Spouse/Partner visa), you must prove to the Home Office that your relationship is real, ongoing, and not simply entered into for immigration purposes. We help gather strong documentary evidence to satisfy this crucial requirement.
I have a minor criminal conviction. Will this affect my visa application?
Any criminal history must be declared. We assess the nature and recency of the conviction against the “suitability” and “good character” requirements to determine its potential impact and advise on the best way to address it in your application.
What is the difference between Naturalisation and Registration for British Citizenship?
Naturalisation is the most common path for adults who have lived in the UK for a specific period (usually 5 years, plus 1 year on ILR). Registration is typically used for minors or adults who are eligible for citizenship through specific ties to the UK or a parent’s status.
Can I switch from a Student Visa to a Work Visa while in the UK?
Yes, in many cases, you can switch from a Student Visa (Tier 4) to a Skilled Worker Visa, provided you meet all the requirements, including having a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed employer.
Do I need a licence to employ my existing staff who require a Skilled Worker Visa?
Yes. Your business must hold a valid Sponsor Licence before you can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to an overseas national for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Can you help with my visa extension application?
Absolutely. We manage all in-country visa extension applications, ensuring you meet the requirements for leave to remain and have not breached any conditions of your current visa before applying.
What evidence is required for the English Language requirement?
The primary ways to satisfy this are: passing a secure English language test (SELT) at the required CEFR level; having an academic degree taught in English; or being a national of a majority English-speaking country.
What is included in your full visa application service?
Our service includes an initial strategic consultation, compiling and reviewing all necessary documents, drafting custom letters of representation, completing the application form, booking appointments (if needed), and liaising with the Home Office until a decision is reached.
How can I book an initial consultation with one of your solicitors?
You can contact our office in Great West, Hounslow, London, by phone at +44 203 411 0102 or by emailing us at info@greatwestlaw.co.uk. We will arrange a convenient time for you to discuss your case in detail.
Do you offer fixed fees for immigration applications?
Yes, for many standard, non-complex applications (such as Spouse Visas, Settlement applications, and initial Work Visas), we offer fixed fees. This provides you with certainty regarding your legal costs. For more complex cases or appeals, we provide a detailed estimate and work on an hourly rate, with transparent billing.
How will I communicate with my assigned solicitor?
You will have a dedicated, named solicitor managing your case from start to finish. Communication is handled primarily via email and phone, ensuring you can reach us easily. We can also arrange video consultations via platforms like Google Meet or Zoom.
Can you assist if I live outside the UK?
Absolutely. We routinely assist clients from all over the world with their Entry Clearance applications (visas applied for outside the UK). We manage the entire process remotely, coordinating document submission and attending to all UK legal requirements on your behalf.
What languages does your team speak?
While our primary language of service is English, our diverse team often includes individuals who speak additional languages of Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi. Please inform us of your language preference when booking, and we will try to match you with a solicitor or support staff member who can assist or we will get a translator for your specific language.
How do I start the process of retaining your firm?
The first step is usually an initial, in-depth consultation. During this meeting, we assess your legal position, advise on the best route, and explain the costs. Following the consultation, you will receive a client care letter detailing our instructions and terms of engagement, which you sign to formally retain us.
Do you have insurance?
Yes. As a regulated firm, we maintain professional indemnity insurance, which protects our clients and ensures we meet all mandatory regulatory requirements.