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Ways to immigrate to UK & obtain residency
Immigrating to the UK and various methods for obtaining residency are explored in detail in this article. England is among the most sought-after countries for immigrants and is particularly popular among Kurds. Many inquiries arise regarding ways to secure a residence permit in the UK; for instance, what is the simplest method to immigrate? Is it feasible to move to the UK based on professional qualifications? What is the experience of relocating and living in the UK like? These are just a few of the questions that will be addressed below. This comprehensive overview of seven pathways to UK immigration is based on the latest regulations, including asylum, education, marriage, birth, investment and business registration, employment, and more. Talav Company is available to offer specialized and complimentary immigration advice for the UK.
Topics covered in this article:
– Requirements for Immigration to the UK
– Immigrate to UK via Education
– Immigrate to UK via Employment
– Immigrating to the UK via Investment
– Gaining UK Residency via Child’s Birth
– Immigrate to UK via Marriage
– Seeking Asylum in UK
– Cost of Living in UK
– UK Immigration & Citizenship Laws
– Commonly Asked Questions
– Last words about immigrating to UK
Requirements for Immigration to the UK
The United Kingdom, part of Great Britain, includes four countries and is situated in the southern portion of the island. The UK is a highly sought-after destination for immigration and is one of the few English-speaking nations in Europe. Among Kurds, there is significant interest in immigrating to the UK. There are several pathways to enter this country, which can generally be categorized into six main types. This article will explore each of these in detail.
Many may wonder what the easiest and most effective route to the UK is. However, there isn’t a single answer to this question. The best method for obtaining residency will vary based on the applicant’s individual circumstances. To determine the optimal immigration approach, it is essential to familiarize oneself with the various options and regulations in the UK, then select the most suitable method based on personal situations. Stay tuned for further insights on this topic to help you choose the best immigration route.
Immigrate to UK via Education
Tier 4 visa, or UK student visa, is categorized into two types: the Tier 4 General visa and the Tier 4 Child visa. The General Tier 4 visa is intended for individuals aged 17 years and older, while those under 17 can apply for the Tier 4 Child visa. If you secure admission to a school, college, or university in the UK and demonstrate proficiency in English, you can apply for a Tier 4 visa.
According to UK immigration regulations, you must submit your Tier 4 visa application three months before your semester begins. You will receive a response regarding your visa application three weeks after your embassy visit.
The application process incurs fees, including a visa application fee of £328 for those applying from outside the UK. This fee applies to each applicant. Additionally, you must pay for insurance. When applying online, you can pay the necessary fees via credit card during the payment phase, which lasts for 30 minutes. If applying through the British Embassy, you must bring the required amount in cash.
Upon approval, you will receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter, which must be presented to the British Embassy along with other required documents and your student visa application. The CAS letter is valid for six months.
The UK visa operates on a points-based system, requiring 40 points for the General visa and 30 points for the Child visa. Achieving these points is essential for visa approval. The study visa scoring breakdown is as follows:
Funding Conditions for UK Study Visa
10 Points: This depends on a bank statement. The statement must clearly show the full account balance. For applicants under 17 years and six months, the bank statement can be in the name of a parent or legal guardian, confirming that living expenses for nine months can be covered. The required funds must be maintained in the account for at least one month before your embassy appointment, with no dips below the necessary amount.
The amount varies based on location, with approximately £1,280 needed for London and about £1,000 for other cities. The total living cost for nine months should be calculated and maintained in the account. Additionally, you must demonstrate that tuition fees have been paid or are available in your account.
Language Certificate:
10 Points: This pertains to an IELTS Academic certificate or an equivalent, as determined by the university. Note that an IELTS score is not required for applicants under 17 years and six months, meaning the Tier 4 Child visa does not need a full score of 40 points.
CAS Letter:
20 Points: These points are awarded based on the CAS letter, which is contingent on submitting the IELTS score and other university-required documents. Typical documents include:
- Academic records and transcripts from high school and pre-university studies.
- At least two recommendation letters from university professors, printed on official letterhead and signed.
- A Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining your background and reasons for studying in the UK.
Immigrate to UK via Employment
To work in the UK, you must obtain a Tier 2 visa. For Kurds seeking employment in the UK, a job offer from a UK employer is necessary. Specific rules apply to non-EU applicants set by the UK Office for Labor and Immigration. The job must be specialized, as regular jobs do not qualify for a UK work visa.
Your prospective employer must have a license to hire foreign workers. You should submit your visa application to the British Embassy three months before starting work; typically, a decision is made within three weeks. The UK work visa can be granted for a maximum of five years and 14 days, with the possibility of renewal for an additional five years
Immigrating to the UK via Investment
You can apply for a Tier 1 visa or an entrepreneurial visa in the UK, although the latter is no longer available, leading to new alternatives. Currently, there are three main types of visas for investment in the UK:
START-UP VISA
To qualify for a start-up visa, you need to develop an innovative and creative business plan. Your plan must be endorsed by an approved UK institution, such as a university or a business center that promotes entrepreneurship. Additionally, you need to demonstrate English proficiency at a B2 level and have at least £945 in your bank account for the last 90 days.
This visa is valid for two years and cannot be extended; you will need to switch to another visa to continue your stay.
INNOVATOR VISA
To obtain an Innovator visa, you must present a creative business plan that receives approval from a recognized UK institution. You are also required to invest a minimum of £50,000 in the UK to execute your plan. This visa is valid for three years and can be extended for an additional three years, with no limit on the number of extensions. After three years of residing in the UK, you may also apply for permanent residency.
INVESTING IN UK GOVERNMENT BONDS
You can also gain residency in the UK by purchasing government bonds, which does not require a business plan. An investment of £2 million in bonds is necessary to obtain this type of residence. Initially, a three-year residency is granted, which can be extended for another two years. After living in the UK for five years, you can apply for permanent residency.
Gaining UK Residency via Child’s Birth
Citizenship laws related to birth can generally be categorized into two approaches: the right of soil and the right of blood. A few countries adhere to the right of soil, where any child born on the country’s territory automatically acquires citizenship, regardless of the parents’ nationality. Countries like Brazil, the United States, and Canada follow this principle. Conversely, the right of blood means citizenship is inherited from the parents, irrespective of the birthplace.
UK birth laws have historically recognized both principles. Prior to January 1983, children born in the UK automatically became British citizens. Since then, the law has shifted to the right of blood, meaning a child born in the UK can become a British citizen only if at least one parent is a British citizen or a permanent resident of the UK.
Immigrate to UK via Marriage
Marrying a British citizen is another route to immigration. This section outlines the legal requirements for immigration to the UK through marriage.
If you are married to a British citizen or have a partner who is a British resident, you can remain in the UK if you meet the following criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You should have sound mental health and the ability to make decisions independently.
- You should possess a good character, with no criminal record.
- You must meet cultural, economic, social, and legal qualifications to live in the UK and demonstrate English proficiency.
- Your spouse must have a permanent residence card or a valid UK residence permit, with no specific date by which you must leave the UK.
- Your spouse must have sufficient income to support both of you.
Seeking Asylum in UK
Each year, some individuals seek to immigrate to the UK via asylum; however, this method can be perilous, and it is advisable to pursue safer alternatives. The Geneva Convention defines asylum as a protection for individuals at risk of persecution or harm due to war, religion, social or political group affiliation, or other serious threats in their home country. Unfortunately, the rise of false claims has tarnished the perception of genuine refugees.
Asylum seekers must apply for protection with the UK Migration Board or the police upon arrival in the UK. They may be placed in refugee camps while their applications are processed. If their application is denied, they must leave the UK.
Cost of Living in UK
The cost of living in the UK is a crucial factor to consider before making the move. The currency used is the Pound, and this section will outline expenses in Pounds. Living costs can vary significantly based on your lifestyle, the city you choose, and the type of accommodation you secure. For instance, London, the capital, is generally more expensive than other cities. Below is a table highlighting the costs of some essential items.
cription | (Cost (Pounds |
Meals at a regular restaurant | 12 |
Cappuccino | 2.59 |
Mineral water (0.33 liters) | 0.88 |
Milk (one liter) | 0.89 |
Rice (one kilo) | 1.3 |
Eggs (12 pieces) | 1.86 |
Apples (one kilo) | 1.79 |
Bananas (one kilo) | 1.02 |
Orange (one kilo) | 1.64 |
Tomatoes (one kilo) | 1.72 |
Potatoes (one kilo) | 1.15 |
One-way ticket (public transport) | 2.4 |
Taxi (one kilometer) | 1.71 |
Diesel (one liter) | 1.24 |
Club fee (monthly) | 29.49 |
One bedroom apartment for rent in the city center | 70 |
One bedroom apartment for rent around the city | 568 |
Three bedroom apartment for rent in downtown | 1191 |
Three bedroom apartment for rent around the city | 923 |
Buy an apartment in the city center (meters) | 3815 |
Buy an apartment around the city (meters) | 2826 |
Net monthly salary | 1789 |
UK Immigration & Citizenship Laws
Various pathways for immigration to the UK have been discussed, each leading to British citizenship under specific conditions. Unlike some Caribbean nations, immediate UK citizenship is not possible through these routes. If you enter the UK as a student, you will need to transition to another residency type, such as through investment, marriage, or employment, to eventually gain British citizenship. Typically, permanent residency can be obtained after 8 to 10 years of residence, and individuals can apply for UK citizenship and a passport within 2 years after securing permanent residency. To become a British citizen, one must not have any criminal convictions, be financially self-sufficient without relying on government assistance, and demonstrate proficiency in English and familiarity with British culture.
Commonly Asked Questions
✅ Where should I begin to immigrate to the UK?
The first step is to understand the immigration process and select the most suitable option. Next, gather the necessary conditions and documents based on your chosen method.
✅ What are the best ways to immigrate to the UK?
Your personal circumstances greatly influence the best immigration route for you, but generally, obtaining a UK work visa, studying at a UK university, and investing in the UK are considered the top methods.
✅ What are the most affordable ways to immigrate to the UK?
Working in the UK is one of the most cost-effective methods of immigration, followed by studying in the UK.
✅ Do I need to apply through an immigration lawyer to immigrate to the UK?
No, it’s possible to learn about UK immigration rules independently. However, hiring a lawyer can expedite the process and provide valuable insights based on their experience.
Last words about immigrating to UK
This article explored immigration to the UK and detailed seven methods of obtaining residency in the country. It’s essential to choose the most appropriate pathway based on your individual needs. For further information on various immigration conditions to the UK and other European nations through different avenues, feel free to contact the experienced advisors and attorneys at Talav Company for a free consultation. Our Company experts are ready to assist with your immigration inquiries and address any questions regarding immigration to the UK.
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We highly recommend that you independently verify this information and consult with a qualified local attorney to ensure it is applicable to your specific situation.