The UK Entry Clearence Explained!
If you don’t already know, the United Kingdom (UK) is made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is country rich with history, culture, and opportunity. It is also known for being influential in various spheres such as politics, science, and culture, and known for its commitment to maintaining a balance between preserving tradition and embracing modernity.
There are plenty of reasons why you’d want to move to a different country. Usually, it’s for reasons such as better opportunities, education, reuniting with loved ones, stability, safety, and/or escaping discrimination. If you are planning to move to a different country for any of those reasons, the UK is amongst one of the best countries to consider when planning your move.
If you are planning to move to the UK in the future, depending on which country you are moving from, you may need to apply for entry clearance before travelling. This process involves applying for a visa that indicates the specific purpose of your entry to the UK. In this article we explain what is meant by entry clearance, what are the requirements, and what is the application process like.
So, what does entry clearance really mean?
Simply, as a foreign national, you are required to pass this process to be cleared to enter the UK. This could be for any reason, and the permission could be either temporary or on permanent basis. This process usually involves a British embassy, consulate, or other overseas visa application centres granting you permission to enter the UK. The Home Office defines entry clearance as the procedure used by Entry Clearance Officers at British posts overseas to check before a person arrives in the UK if that person qualifies to enter the UK under the Immigration Rules.
Immigration rules are regularly updated so it is always best to seek the advice of a qualified immigration professional. At GOOD ADVICE UK, we specialise in immigration law and we have close to two decades of experience in that field.
First, thing to consider is whether you need UK entry clearance?
Citizens of certain countries are exempt from this process and can enter the UK without needing a visa if they are staying for 6 months or less. This will usually takes the form of an entry certificate. Nonetheless, entry clearance is required, if the period exceeds 6 months, or if they are travelling for purposes for which prior entry clearance is required under the immigration rules.
Citizens from the remaining counties that do not benefit from that exemption, are subject to the UK clearance requirements to enter the UK. Particularly, if you are a person specified in Appendix II to Appendix V of the Immigration Rules.
It is always recommended to use the Home Office’s online service to know if you need entry clearance. This service advices you on whether you need a visa and consequently whether you require prior entry clearance, based on things such as nationality, reason for travel, and the amount of time you will spend in the UK. ?
Second, you need to consider if you have the necessary documentation to start the application process…
There are different rules to where and how you apply depending on the type of visa. In some cases, applicants needs to apply from their countries of origin or where they are permanently residing. Other’s may be able to apply from any country. There are special provisions in the immigration rules governing other circumstances such as when a person is residing in a country that has no UK visa application centre.
Applications for entry clearance are typically completed online via the Home Office website. The specific application and documents you need to submit will vary based on the visa category.
For most entry clearance applications, you'll need to provide:
Additional documentation will depend on the specific type of visa you are applying for. For instance, if you are applying for a Skilled Worker visa, you will need to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship from an employer with a valid UK Sponsor Licence, proof of sufficient personal savings, and evidence that you meet the English language requirements.
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Again, ensure you speak to a qualified immigration lawyer for appropriate advice.
Finally, what happens at the UK boarder once you have entry clearance?
When you arrive in the UK with prior entry clearance, you typically pass through passport control more swiftly as there generally isn't a need to decide on granting you entry. The immigration officer (IO) might only ask questions to confirm that your travel purpose aligns with what was stated in your entry clearance and that there have been no significant changes in your circumstances since the clearance was granted.
However, even with prior entry clearance, you can be denied entry if it's found that false information was provided or important facts were omitted to obtain the clearance, or if your circumstances have significantly changed since the clearance was issued, undermining the grounds for your admission.
Once allowed entry by the IO, you are considered to have been granted leave to remain from the date of your arrival in the UK until the expiry date of your entry clearance, under the conditions specified on your visa vignette.
How can we at GOOD ADVICE UK? help?
If you're planning to come to the UK, it's crucial to apply for the appropriate type of entry clearance and follow the correct procedure. Our team is ready to discuss your visa and entry clearance needs, as well as those of your family members.
We offer comprehensive support with all aspects of the entry clearance application process, including:
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For specialist advice and support. Please get in touch with our corporate solicitors in London by contacting the GOOD ADVICE UK? office.
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