For those considering their immigration journey to the UK, we thought we’d summarise a recent client journey. We cover how they went from Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain, and then on to British citizenship, and how Nexus Visas was right beside them during the whole immigration journey.

A client first contacted us in 2016 when they required a Visa extension. There are various UK Visa extension types including Student Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, Spouse Visa, and Visitor Visa. Typically, clients need to understand their options and whether they can extend their current Visa type or switch to another. We did this and reviewed the prerequisites for their required application to ensure the best chance of a successful extension application. At the time we were aware that the IKVI fees were due to increase significantly, and we worked quickly to beat fee increases and managed to help them save over £5,000 in application fees. Their Spouse Visa was granted, and they carried on with their normal UK life.

It’s important to note that although this case was straightforward for us, our client did come to us with some worry and confusion. This is normal, a reaction to life changing actions. We pride ourselves on our sensitivity and our ability to put clients at ease during any application process. The client commented that our senior advisor, “…always responded immediately and it felt like we could depend on her through a very difficult and confusing process.”

Once they had lived legally and continuously in the UK for 5 continuous years, they were able to apply for permission to settle in the UK, this is known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’ (ILR) or Settlement. They returned to us in 2019 for assistance with this process. Having assisted them previously, we were clear that they met the basic eligibility criteria. We explained the general requirements and procedures, assisted with completing the application forms, and reviewed their documentation for completeness.

Beyond paperwork, we also help clients understand when and what to expect. Also, when cases are complex, we can assist clients in referring them to specialists. In this case, the application was straightforward and after a little wait, ILR was granted!

Having lived with ILR for some time, they returned once again in 2024 wanting to apply for British citizenship. Their final step in their immigration journey! As an OISC registered advisor and having been there with them during most of their journey, we were well placed to help them understand the application process, including the required forms, fees, and supporting documents. That said, we followed our normal procedures reviewing their eligibility to certain, checking their documents, and reviewing their paperwork.

As a South African citizen, the client needed permission from the South African consulate to retain their South African citizenship and hold dual nationality once they acquired British citizenship. We were also able to assist them with the South Africa retention application successfully before their British citizenship application was approved.

After another short wait, they were granted British citizenship! They were obviously very pleased and commented that we, “…accomplished everything [they] needed with exemplary service and professionalism.”

It was a privilege and a pleasure to assist them over the years, build a good relationship, and earn their trust.

We continue to work with wonderful clients, their families and their friends who get referred to us and we treat everyone in the circle as family. We welcome you to contact us to discuss your own potential immigration journey and how we could help.

If you’re considering immigrating to the UK, we highly recommend a preliminary immigration consultation with Nexus Visas to help you save and reduce stress. Complete our form here, call 020 3598 7413, or email info@nexusvisas.co.uk