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Showing posts from January, 2025

UK and Iraq Forge Stronger Ties to Tackle Trade, Growth, and Illegal Migration

  In a landmark meeting held at Downing Street today, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani unveiled a series of initiatives designed to bolster bilateral trade, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen border security. The discussions marked a pivotal moment in UK-Iraq relations, showcasing a shared commitment to mutual prosperity and regional stability. Transformative £12.3 Billion Trade Package The highlight of the meeting was the announcement of a £12.3 billion export package, a deal worth ten times the volume of last year’s trade between the two nations. The agreement, supported by UK Export Finance, is expected to unlock substantial opportunities for British businesses across critical sectors such as water, energy, telecoms, and defence infrastructure. Prime Minister Starmer described the deal as a "step-change in the trade and investment relationship between our two countries," emphasizing the potential for shared economic be...

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) vs British Citizenship: Key Differences Explained

When considering a permanent future in the United Kingdom, individuals often weigh the benefits of Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) against British Citizenship . Both statuses provide the right to live, work, and study in the UK permanently, access free NHS healthcare, claim benefits, and travel in and out of the UK without visa restrictions. However, key differences make each status unique. Understanding these distinctions can help individuals make informed decisions about their immigration goals. Understanding ILR and British Citizenship What is ILR? Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also known as settlement or permanent residence, is a legal status granted to foreign nationals who have lived in the UK for a qualifying period (typically 2–5 years). ILR holders are free from immigration control, meaning they do not require a visa to live, work, or study in the UK. Common pathways to ILR include long-term work visas (e.g., Skilled Worker visa), family visas (e.g., spouse visa), or bus...

Spouse Visa Financial Requirement and Exemptions 2025

If you are planning to apply for a UK spouse visa, one of the key eligibility criteria is meeting the spouse visa financial requirement. As of 2025, the current financial threshold is a combined income of at least £29,000 per year with your partner. However, if you applied for a fiancĂ©, fiancĂ©e, or proposed civil partner visa before 11 April 2024 , the previous £18,600 income threshold will apply. According to the latest Home Office policy , the spouse visa minimum income requirement is set to increase in phases, rising to £34,500 and then £38,700 in subsequent steps. How to Meet the UK Spouse Visa Financial Requirement The financial requirement can be met through income, cash savings, or a combination of both. If you have sufficient savings, they can offset or fully meet the income threshold. For more detailed guidance on cash savings, refer to the section below. If you need help navigating these requirements, Adamir Solicitors is here to assist. Contact our immigration lawye...

Staying Outside the UK on a Spouse Visa: What You Need to Know

When holding a spouse visa in the UK, there’s no explicit limit on how many days you can stay outside the UK—even if you’re applying for an extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, your time spent outside the country is a crucial factor the Home Office considers during spouse visa renewal and ILR applications. Extended absences might raise concerns about the genuineness of your relationship and your intention to live in the UK permanently. Impact of Long Absences on Spouse Visa Extensions Spouse visas are issued for an initial period of 30 months (2.5 years), extendable for another 30 months, allowing a total of 5 years before applying for ILR. To extend your spouse visa, you must continue to meet the requirements, including proving a genuine relationship and cohabitation with your partner. The Home Office reviews long absences carefully during extension applications. Extended periods outside the UK may create doubts about your commitment to living together permanentl...

Long Residence Guidance: ILR 10-Year Route (2025)

What Is Long Residence? Long residence refers to a route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for individuals who have lawfully and continuously resided in the UK for 10 years. This pathway is ideal for those who have lived in the UK under various visa types, as long as they have maintained legal status and avoided overstaying. Unlike other ILR pathways that require specific visas for 2, 3, or 5 years, the 10-year long residence route allows applicants to combine time spent on different visa categories. This unique feature prevents the ILR “clock” from resetting when switching visas, making it a preferred option for those who have held multiple visas during their time in the UK. Eligibility Requirements for Long Residence ILR (2025) To qualify for ILR through the 10-year long residence route, you must meet the following conditions: Lawful and Continuous Residence : Resided in the UK lawfully for at least 10 years without significant gaps. From 11 April 2024, applicants must not hav...

New Rules for International Students in the UK: 2025 Updates

 From 1 January 2024, new UK Student visa rules have been introduced that bring significant changes for international students and their families. These updates aim to tighten immigration controls while still offering pathways for study and work in the UK. Let’s explore these changes and how they might impact your plans. Changes to Dependent Visas for International Students Starting January 2024, international students on most courses will no longer be allowed to bring their dependent partners or children to the UK unless they are enrolled in a PhD program or a postgraduate research course . This rule applies only to courses that start on or after 1 January 2024. For students in non-research programs, the option to bring dependents has been removed, reflecting the government’s focus on managing immigration numbers. Switching from a Student Visa to a Work Visa International students can still switch to a UK work visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa , once their studies are complet...