There are many options to choose when seeking a new home, but finding one in which you’re happy can be so much harder. In the article “The Joys of UK Immigration,” we explore some of the difficulties that people face in living and working in England, particularly those who move from other countries.
How to Immigrate to the United Kingdom?
Are you curious about moving to the United Kingdom? Maybe you have family or friends who live here and you want to explore this beautiful country. Regardless of why you are interested in immigrating to the UK, there are some important things to know before making your move.
First and foremost, if you are a foreigner looking to move to the UK, it is important that you have a valid passport. The UK is a member of the European Union (EU), so simply having a passport from any countries within the EU will suffice. If you do not have a passport from an EU country, then you will need to obtain one before moving. You can apply for a visa first if required by your particular nationality.
Once you have obtained your passport and visa, it is time to start planning your move. The process of immigrating to the UK can be relatively straightforward or it can be considerably more complex depending on how precise you’re planning is. Before making any decisions or submitting any paperwork, it is best to speak with an immigration lawyer who can provide helpful advice and guidance throughout the entire process.
Finally, if everything goes according to plan and you receive confirmation that your application has been successful, be prepared for a long bureaucratic journey ahead! The minimum required processing time for most applications is six months but sometimes cases may take much longer than that due to all of the necessary paperwork and documentation required.
Pros and Cons of UK Immigration
Pros of Immigrating to the UK
There are many compelling reasons to immigrate to the United Kingdom, and these reasons vary depending on which immigrant visa category you fall into. Whether you’re seeking a new start, an opportunity for personal growth, or an escape from difficult circumstances back home, the United Kingdom has something to offer everyone.
Immigration to the UK is cheaper than most other European countries.
The average cost of settling in the UK as a permanent resident is £27,600, compared to an OECD average of £47,000. In addition, healthcare is free for British citizens and residents in England and Wales, while many other European countries charge a significant premium for health care.
There is also great job prospects available in the UK. According to Robert Half International’s 2018 Salary Guide for Engineering & IT Professionals (PDF), PayScale reported that engineering jobs in the UK are among the best-paying in Europe and that salaries for software development roles are up to 52% higher than those in Germany. Similarly, The Guardian’s 2018 report found that median pay rates for specialist medical doctors in London were £130k – more than double what they were just five years ago! Finally, if you have children who are eligible for school entrance exams (eg: GCSEs), studying in England or Wales will tuition-free them at all state schools.
Pros and Cons of Immigrating to the UK
The pros and cons of immigrating to the United Kingdom can be a complex topic, but there are some clear benefits to moving to England and Wales. Immigrating to the UK provides access to an array of healthcare, education, and professional opportunities.
However, living in the UK can also be challenging. The language barrier can be challenging, and many newcomers struggle with financial stability. Additionally, many jobs in the UK aren’t available to immigrants, so it may take time for them to find steady work. Overall, though, immigrating to Britain is generally an rewarding experience.
Differences between UK Immigration and Visas
The process of obtaining a visa to live and work in the UK can be complicated, but it’s well worth it. Here are some key differences between immigration and visas:
- Immigration is a permanent move to the UK. A visa allows you to stay for a specific period of time, usually three months.
- Immigration applications are processed by the Home Office. Visas are issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).
- There are different types of visas available, including student visas, work visas, family visas and tourist visas. Each type has its own rules and requirements.
- You must meet all the qualifications required for the visa you’re applying for. For example, you must be able to support yourself financially and have a valid passport.
- You’ll need to provide proof of your identity and citizenship (such as a passport or birth certificate). You also need to provide evidence that you’ll be able to support yourself while in the UK (for example, evidence of earnings or bank statements).
- If you’re applying for a visa as part of a family group, each member of your family must apply separately.
6 FAQs and Answers on UK Immigration
1. What is the difference between a visa and a residency permit?
A visa is a temporary permission to enter or stay in the UK, whilst a residency permit is a long-term permission which allows someone to live and work in the UK indefinitely.
2. If I have already been granted permanent residence, do I need to apply for Leave To Remain again?
No, once you have been granted permanent residence, you are automatically entitled to remain in the UK and do not need to apply for Leave To Remain again. However, if your residency has expired or you no longer meet the requirements of being resident, then you will need to reapply for Leave To Remain.
3. Can I work while I am awaiting my leave to remain decision?
Yes, as long as you have a valid work permit or visa and are not subject to any restrictions on your employment.
4. How long will it take for my leave to remain decision to be made?
It can take up to six months for your application to be processed by UK Border Agency (UKBA). However, this timeframe can occasionally be longer depending on how busy UKBA is at that time.
5. Am I allowed to stay in the UK without having my leave decided?
If you hold only a visa or work permit and are not subject to any restrictions on your employment, then you may stay in the UK without having your leave decided.
