Immigration Services

Comprehensive Immigration Services

Immigration law is one of the most complex and fast-changing areas of UK law. A single error on an application, a missed deadline, or a misunderstanding of the Immigration Rules can lead to a refusal, wasted fees, and serious disruption to your life, family, or business. At MCR Solicitors in Manchester, our immigration team helps individuals, families, employers, and students navigate the UK system with clarity and confidence, giving your application the best possible chance of success.

We advise on applications made under the UK Immigration Rules and related visa routes, and we act for clients across Greater Manchester, the North West, and throughout the UK. Whether you are applying for your first visa, extending your stay, bringing family to the UK, or challenging a refusal, we will explain your options in plain English and manage your case with care.

What Our Immigration Service Covers

UK immigration is governed by the Immigration Rules, the Immigration Act 1971 and subsequent legislation, and Home Office guidance, all of which are updated regularly. Our team advises across the main categories of work, including:

Work and Business Immigration

• Skilled Worker visas and sponsorship, including support for individuals and for employers holding (or applying for) a sponsor licence
• Sponsor licence applications, compliance, and guidance on sponsor duties
• Global Talent, Health and Care Worker, and other work routes where eligibility applies
• Business and investor routes and self-employment options available under the current Rules

Family Immigration

• Spouse, partner, and fiancé(e) visas under Appendix FM
• Parent, child, and dependant applications to keep families together
• Applications involving Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (the right to respect for private and family life)

Settlement, Citizenship and Status

• Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and long residence applications
• British citizenship and naturalisation applications
• EU Settlement Scheme matters, including late applications and status issues

Students and Visitors

• Student visa applications and dependant arrangements
• Visit visas for family visits, business, and short stays

Refusals, Appeals and Protection

• Administrative review and appeals to the First-tier Tribunal (Immigration and Asylum Chamber)
• Refusals, curtailment, and human rights applications
• Asylum and protection claims for those who fear return to their home country

Immigration Rules, eligibility criteria, and Home Office fees change frequently. Before relying on any specific requirement, we recommend checking the current position on GOV.UK, and we will always advise you on the Rules that apply to your circumstances at the time of your application.

How MCR Solicitors Helps

Every immigration case is different, which is why we start by listening. We take time to understand your situation, your goals, and any concerns about your immigration history so that we can give you honest, realistic advice. We do not make promises we cannot keep, and we will always tell you where an application carries risk.

Our support typically includes:

• Assessing your eligibility against the relevant visa route and Immigration Rules
• Advising on the right route for your circumstances, including timing and long-term goals such as settlement
• Preparing and reviewing your application, supporting documents, and evidence to meet Home Office requirements
• Drafting detailed representations where your case needs careful legal argument
• Guiding you through biometrics, appointments, and Home Office correspondence
• Representing you in reviews, appeals, or tribunal proceedings if an application is refused

We are transparent about costs from the outset. We will explain our fees, any Home Office application fees, the Immigration Health Surcharge where it applies, and any other charges before you instruct us, so there are no surprises.

Our Process

We aim to make a stressful process feel manageable. While every case is tailored, our approach usually follows these stages:

1. Initial consultation. We discuss your circumstances, explain your options, and set out the likely route, requirements, and costs.
2. Case strategy and document review. We confirm the correct route, identify the evidence needed, and highlight any gaps or risks early.
3. Preparation. We prepare your application and supporting bundle, and draft legal representations where appropriate.
4. Submission and monitoring. We help you submit correctly, guide you through biometrics and appointments, and keep your case on track.
5. Decision and next steps. We review the outcome with you and advise on any further action, including reviews or appeals if needed.

Home Office processing times vary by route and can change without notice. We will give you an indication based on the current published guidance and let you know if a priority or super-priority service may be available, but timescales are ultimately controlled by the Home Office. You can check current processing information on GOV.UK.

Why Choose MCR Solicitors

Choosing the right adviser matters. In the UK, immigration advice is a regulated activity, and instructing a qualified, regulated firm protects you from poor advice that could jeopardise your status.

• Regulated and accountable. MCR Solicitors is a firm of solicitors based in Manchester, and our work is subject to professional regulatory standards, giving you confidence and clear routes of accountability.
• Experienced immigration team. We handle a wide range of immigration matters, from straightforward visa applications to complex refusals and appeals.
• Clear, honest advice. We explain the law in plain English, set realistic expectations, and never guarantee outcomes we cannot control.
• Client-focused service. You will have a point of contact who understands your case and keeps you informed at each stage.
• Local and accessible. Based in Manchester, we act for clients across the North West and nationwide, in person and remotely.

We understand how much is at stake in an immigration matter, and we treat every client with respect, discretion, and diligence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an immigration application cost?

Costs depend on the type of application and its complexity. There are usually two parts: our professional (legal) fees, and Home Office charges such as the application fee and, where it applies, the Immigration Health Surcharge. We provide a clear breakdown before you instruct us. Home Office fees change regularly, so please check the current figures on GOV.UK, and we will confirm the fees that apply to your case.

How long will my application take?

Processing times are set by the Home Office and vary by route, and they can change at short notice. Some routes offer priority or super-priority services for an additional fee, subject to availability. We will give you a realistic indication based on current guidance, but we cannot control or guarantee Home Office timescales. Up-to-date processing information is published on GOV.UK.

My visa or application was refused. Can you help?

Yes. Depending on the type of refusal, you may be able to request an administrative review, appeal to the First-tier Tribunal, or make a fresh application. We will review your refusal notice, explain your options and any deadlines, and advise on the best way forward. Deadlines in refusal cases are often strict, so it is important to seek advice quickly.

Can you help my business sponsor overseas workers?

Yes. We advise employers on applying for a sponsor licence, understanding their sponsor duties and compliance obligations, and assigning Certificates of Sponsorship to Skilled Workers. We can also support you if you face a compliance visit or need to review your existing sponsorship arrangements.

Do I need to visit your Manchester office?

Not necessarily. We act for clients across the UK and can advise by phone, video call, and email, as well as in person at our Manchester office. We will agree the most convenient way of working with you at the outset.

The information on this page is general guidance about UK immigration law in England and Wales and is not legal advice for your specific situation. Immigration Rules and fees change frequently. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please contact our team.