Manchester

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Immigration Services

Support for obtaining visas, residence permits, and other documentation for new arrivals.

Sections

1. Visa Applications

Visa applications are a key part of the UK immigration process. Manchester offers services to assist with various visa types, including work, study, family, and visitor visas.

Types of Visas

  • Work Visas: Skilled Worker Visa, Health and Care Worker Visa, Global Talent Visa, etc.
  • Study Visas: Student Visa (Tier 4), Child Student Visa.
  • Family Visas: Spouse/Partner Visa, Parent Visa, Child Visa.
  • Visitor Visas: Standard Visitor Visa, Business Visitor Visa.

Costs

  • Standard Visitor Visa: ยฃ100 (up to 6 months).
  • Skilled Worker Visa: ยฃ610โ€“ยฃ1,408 (depending on duration and job type).
  • Student Visa: ยฃ363 (outside the UK) or ยฃ490 (inside the UK).
  • Family Visa: ยฃ1,538 (outside the UK) or ยฃ1,048 (inside the UK).

Procedure

  1. Determine Visa Type: Visit the UK Government website to identify the visa that suits your purpose.
  2. Prepare Documents: Passport, proof of funds, sponsorship letters, English language proficiency, etc.
  3. Apply Online: Submit your application via the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website.
  4. Book an Appointment: Schedule a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
  5. Attend Appointment: Provide fingerprints, photo, and supporting documents.
  6. Wait for Decision: Processing times vary (e.g., 3 weeks for a Standard Visitor Visa).

Local Site Considerations

  • Visa Application Centre in Manchester:
    • Address: UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS), Core Technology Facility, 46 Grafton Street, Manchester, M13 9NT.
    • Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AMโ€“4:00 PM.
    • Contact: Managed by Sopra Steria; queries can be directed through the UKVI website.

2. Residency Permits

Residency permits allow individuals to live and work in the UK for an extended period.

Types of Residency Permits

  • Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): Issued to visa holders staying longer than 6 months.
  • Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Permanent residency status.
  • EU Settlement Scheme: For EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens.

Costs

  • BRP Replacement: ยฃ19.20 (biometric fee).
  • ILR Application: ยฃ2,404.
  • EU Settlement Scheme: Free.

Procedure

  1. Apply Online: Complete the application form on the UKVI website.
  2. Provide Biometrics: Attend a UKVCAS appointment to submit fingerprints and a photo.
  3. Submit Supporting Documents: Proof of residency, employment, or family ties.
  4. Receive Decision: Processing times vary (e.g., 6 months for ILR).

Local Site Considerations

  • BRP Collection: BRPs can be collected at designated Post Offices or UKVCAS centres in Manchester.
  • EU Settlement Scheme Support: Assistance is available at local community centres or through the Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU).

3. Asylum Support

Manchester is a key city for asylum seekers, offering support services and legal aid.

Eligibility

  • Individuals fleeing persecution or serious harm in their home country.

Procedure

  1. Claim Asylum: Apply at the UK border or at the Asylum Intake Unit in Croydon.
  2. Screening Interview: Provide personal details and reasons for seeking asylum.
  3. Asylum Interview: Attend a detailed interview to explain your case.
  4. Decision: Receive a decision on your asylum claim.

Support Services

  • Accommodation and Financial Support: Provided by the Home Office if you are destitute.
  • Legal Aid: Free legal advice is available through organizations like GMIAU.

Local Site Considerations

  • Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU):
    • Address: 1 Delaunays Road, Crumpsall, Manchester, M8 4QS.
    • Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AMโ€“5:00 PM.
    • Contact: +44 161 740 7722.

4. Citizenship Processes

Becoming a British citizen is the final step for many immigrants.

Eligibility

  • Must have ILR or Settled Status for at least 12 months.
  • Meet residency requirements (e.g., 5 years in the UK).
  • Pass the Life in the UK Test and meet English language requirements.

Costs

  • Naturalisation Application: ยฃ1,330.
  • Life in the UK Test: ยฃ50.

Procedure

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet residency and language requirements.
  2. Pass the Life in the UK Test: Book and take the test at an approved centre.
  3. Prepare Documents: Passport, BRP, proof of residency, etc.
  4. Apply Online: Submit your application via the UKVI website.
  5. Attend Citizenship Ceremony: Once approved, attend a ceremony to receive your certificate.

Local Site Considerations

  • Life in the UK Test Centre in Manchester:
    • Address: 3rd Floor, 55 Portland Street, Manchester, M1 3HP.
    • Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AMโ€“5:00 PM.
  • Citizenship Ceremonies:
    • Location: Manchester Register Office, Heron House, 47 Lloyd Street, Manchester, M2 5LE.
    • Contact: +44 161 234 5000.

Additional Resources

  • UKVI Contact Centre: For general immigration queries, call +44 300 790 6268.
  • Local Immigration Solicitors: Numerous law firms in Manchester specialize in immigration law, such as Latitude Law and IAS (Immigration Advice Service).
  • Community Support: Charities like Refugee Action and Migrant Help provide assistance to immigrants and asylum seekers.

Tips for Navigating Immigration Services in Manchester

  1. Book Appointments Early: Slots for biometric appointments and Life in the UK tests can fill up quickly.
  2. Keep Copies of Documents: Always retain copies of your application and supporting documents.
  3. Seek Legal Advice: For complex cases, consult an immigration solicitor or legal aid service.
  4. Stay Updated: Immigration rules and fees can change; regularly check the UKVI website for updates.

By following this guide, you can effectively navigate immigration services in Manchester and ensure a smooth process for your visa, residency, asylum, or citizenship needs.