Visitor Visa Granted Despite Historic Overstay and Two Previous Refusals
We were instructed by a Chinese national (“the Applicant”) to assist with a fresh UK Standard Visitor visa application to visit her daughter (“the Inviter”), who lawfully resides and works in the United Kingdom with an Innovator Founder visa. The case was particularly complex. The Applicant had previously overstayed in the UK for more than […]
When is a Family Holiday Too Risky? Temporary Relocation to Non-Hague Countries
For separated parents with international ties, planning a family holiday can quickly turn into a legal battleground. While trips to see relatives or explore a child’s cultural heritage may seem innocent, if the destination lies outside the Hague Convention on child abduction, the courts treat them with extreme caution. This was demonstrated in two recent […]
English Language Requirement Raised to A-Level Standard as Home Office Unveils Wide-Ranging Immigration Changes
The Home Office released an extensive update to the Immigration Rules under Statement of Changes HC 1333 this week, implementing wide-ranging amendments across visit, work, study, and family routes. While many provisions were anticipated following earlier policy announcements, several new measures and clarifications including a stricter English language requirement have now been confirmed. Key Changes […]
The Renters’ Rights Bill Becomes Law – What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
The UK government is pressing ahead with major reforms to the private rental market through the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, expected to be one of the most significant changes in housing law for more than 30 years. The Bill aims to strengthen tenants’ rights and rebalance the relationship between landlords and tenants. It will also […]
Mayor of London Calls for Pause on New Immigration Rules
London Mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, has called for a pause on the new immigration rules, introduced in July 2025. The Mayor’s comments come following reports that up to 300 Transport for London Staff are reportedly at risk of removal due to recent changes, according to the TSSA transport union. The intervention puts Sir Sadiq at […]
Three Key Points to Consider Before Entering a New Commercial Lease
Entering into a new commercial lease offers greater flexibility compared to taking over an existing one, as both the tenant and landlord can freely negotiate the terms. If you’re a commercial tenant who is considering negotiating a new commercial lease, here are three crucial factors to keep in mind. Let’s explore them in this article. […]
Right of Appeal Cancelled for Those with Leave to Remain With Few Exceptions
The Home Office has recently changed its ‘Rights of Appeal caseworker guidance’. The Home Office no longer offers a right to appeal where a person already has leave to remain. The only exception to this is people with 3C leave. Previously, the guidance provided a right of appeal if the person’s application was refused and […]
What Do the Police Know About Me? How to Access Your Police Records and More
Many people are surprised to learn how much information the police may hold about them, even if they’ve never been arrested or charged with a crime. Whether you are applying for a visa, a job, or simply want to understand what’s on record, you have the legal right to ask. In this article, we explain […]
Security for Costs: Key Lessons from High Court Decision in Sykes v Sumiki Ltd
The recent High Court decision in Sykes v Sumiki Ltd provides valuable guidance on the court’s approach to applications for security for costs, particularly where the appellant is resident outside the jurisdiction. What is Security for Costs? Security for costs is a mechanism under the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR 25.27–25.29) which allows a defendant (or, […]
UK Settlement to Become Harder Under New Proposals
The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has announced significant changes to the requirements for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in her Labour Party conference speech. Currently, most migrants can apply for ILR after five years of lawful residence, provided they meet requirements such as English language ability, good character, and integration. ILR grants permanent residence in […]