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IHImmigration Help

Introduction

What this site is, who it’s for, and how to use it effectively.

Last reviewed: 2025-10-02

Welcome! If you’re planning a move to the UK—or already part-way through it—this guide is here to make each step clearer and less stressful. We focus on practical checklists, plain-English explanations, and tools you can actually use.

Who this is for

Before you dive in, here’s who tends to benefit most from this guide.

  • People applying (or preparing to apply) under work routes like Skilled Worker.
  • Partners and families who want to understand what to expect and what to prepare.
  • Anyone planning for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) and keen to avoid absence-rule surprises.

If your situation is unusually complex (long gaps, refusals, switching routes, criminality issues), you may still find this helpful—but you should also get tailored advice.

What you’ll find here

Think of this site as your organised notebook for the journey.

  • Step-by-step chapters for each stage, from offer → CoS → application → arrival → ILR.
  • Templates (e.g., invitation/permission letters) and ready-to-copy checklists.
  • Tools like the ILR Calculator to estimate dates and scan absences.
  • Glossary of common terms so you don’t get lost in jargon (open the glossary).
  • Links to official guidance so you can verify key points yourself.

How to use this guide

A short plan now saves hours later.

  • Start at the Chapters table (/guide) to see the full journey.
  • Either read in order or jump straight to your current step (e.g., Job offer, Prepare, Finalise).
  • Use the ILR Calculator early to understand your continuous residence window.
  • Create a single folder for documents and name files clearly (e.g., passport.pdf, cos-summary.pdf). You’ll reuse them for extensions and ILR.
  • When in doubt, check the Glossary and follow the links to official sources.

What we don’t do (important)

This site is information, not legal advice, and we don’t handle applications for you. UK immigration rules change; salary thresholds and policy details are especially time-sensitive.

Only OISC-registered immigration advisers can provide immigration advice in the UK. If your case is complex or time-critical, speak to a qualified adviser who can review your specific circumstances.

If your case is complex

You should consider tailored advice if you have any of the following:

  • Past refusals, overstays, criminality, or long gaps in lawful residence.
  • Uncertain occupation code or a borderline salary situation.
  • Heavy international travel that may affect the 180-day absence windows.
  • Switching routes in-country or coordinating with dependants on different timelines.

Conventions used in this guide

A few patterns you’ll see throughout:

  • Callouts highlight key cautions or pro-tips.
  • Checklists are copy-paste friendly so you can tick things off.
  • Links point to tools, chapters, or official sources for verification.
  • We prioritise clarity over volume—fewer, well-chosen documents beat giant bundles.

Next steps

Information only — not legal advice. Always verify time-sensitive details against official guidance, and speak to an OISC-registered adviser for tailored support where needed.