Entry Clearance (EC)

Once you are ready to travel to the United Kingdom (UK), it is necessary to apply for Entry Clearance. Entry clearance is permission, or leave to enter the United Kingdom.

Commonwealth and non-visa nationals need to apply for Entry Clearance to enter the UK for six months or more. Shorter visits do not require Entry Clearance. Work permit holders who wish to migrate to the UK must obtain UK Entry Clearance before travelling to the UK, irrespective of the length of the Work Permit. Dependants of migrants who have a UK visa also need to apply for Entry Clearance.

Visa nationals are required to apply to UK Visas for Entry Clearance to the UK regardless of the length of stay.

A UK visa takes the form of a sticker placed in a passport at a UK Visas post overseas, such as a UK Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate. A visa specifies the purpose for which the holder is entitled to enter the UK, as well as the conditions of the visa.

Biometric visas require a person to attend the British Embassy for their biometrics to be taken.

Eligibility

It is important to prove reasons for applying for a visa are valid and meet UK immigration requirements. Once Entry Clearance is granted, you are permitted to leave and enter the UK as many times as you like, and you must not rely on public funds in the UK.

In the case of HSMP or UK Work Permits, a person must prove they meet the immigration requirements for the permit. British Entry Clearance Officers will run further local checks to make sure documents are genuine. You may be required to attend an interview to allow the Immigration Officer to question anything that is unclear. These interviews can take some time and an Immigration Officer may ask difficult questions.

Duration

When UK Entry Clearance is granted, it will state a 'valid from' date and a 'valid to' date. Depending on the purpose of travel to the UK, this will vary.

Entry clearance for dependants

Dependants do not require a work permit and are entitled to work without any restrictions, unless they are dependent on a retired person of independent means. You are permitted to leave and enter the UK as many times as you like, and you must not rely on public funds.

If you are granted entry clearance as a dependant of a person who is not settled in the UK, in the form of a visa confirming limited leave to remain, the visa will usually be granted for the same period as the main applicant's visa.

Visa Service

We are able to deal with applications to over 100 British High Commissions, Embassies, and Consulates around the world and we aim to minimise the amount of time you will have to wait for a British Visa. We will also keep clients informed throughout the procedure and explain what to expect if an interview is required.

If a case is refused we have the knowledge and experience to appeal, for your peace of mind. If you require our assistance, please contact us.