One of the questions immigration lawyers get asked more than they have hot coffee is “what are the chances of my visa application being successful?” Now solicitors do not have a crystal ball, however they do have a lot of experience and know their stuff when it comes to visa applications. Waterstone Legal is one of the best immigration law firms in London for any type of visa you need. Here are five tips from one of their top immigration experts on maximising your chances of a successful application.
1. Preparation Is Key
Before you press start on your application, spend some time researching the government website to be clear on what documents are required. Also, whether you meet the specified conditions. From financial thresholds to deadlines, ensuring you are compliant and can meet the requirements of your chosen visa to prevent delays and keep the application as streamlined as possible. “Often applicants choose the wrong visa for their circumstances.” a solicitor at Waterstone Legal says. Speaking to an expert is highly recommended if you are unsure what visa is best for you. This can save you time, money and increase the chances of success of your application.
2. Apply In Time
Often visa applications can be pretty urgent and the applicant will want to have that green light asap so they can travel. With this in mind, making sure you apply in time is vital. The early bird catches the worm or the visa as the case may be. An immigration expert of Waterstone Legal says, “often the stress and anxiety of a visa application comes from leaving it till the last minute. While it is still possible to get an application through as quickly as possible, the earlier we start the better” This makes sense.
Sometimes decisions can take time or there may be a mistake on the application that needs to be resolved or appealed. By applying in plenty of time you allow room for any delays. For more information on when to start your application, deadlines and ways to fast track your application head an immigration law firm near you.
3. Make A List
You do not have to be Monica from friends to appreciate the value of a good list. When it comes to your visa application there will be a lot of documents you need to sign off and steps you need to go through. Make a list and tick off the documents as you go. This will help ensure a smooth submission process, a solicitor can advise what documents are required for your specific visa. Also, you can check on the government website. Having all your paperwork ready before you start the application is highly recommended along with a credit or debit card to pay any fees that are required to submit.
4. Be Honest And Transparent
When answering all questions on your visa application, being clear, honest and transparent is key to success. If you get called for an interview, you may be asked for more details on your reasons for travel and circumstances. This is common with student visas for example, be prepared to explain your intentions regarding work, where you are studying and your plans to leave. “Very often the Home Office needs more evidence to be reassured you are going to leave on expiry of your visa” says a solicitor at Waterstone Legal. Complying with your visa conditions is vital to create a good relationship and not jeopardise your chances of returning to the UK in the future.
5. Speak To An Immigration Expert… (Before You Apply)
One of the easiest ways to ensure a successful visa application is doing things the right way round. Speaking to an immigration expert before you apply can ensure you choose the right visa, correctly fill in the application and are prepared for any interview. “Clients often come to us having started and got confused or having their application refused. This takes more time than had they come to us before they started.” says an expert at Waterstone Legal. Having legal advice on your visa application will take away any headaches and ensure a smooth and successful application.
The Wrap Up
Many people applying for visa’s want to know their chance of success. They can often want to travel urgently and feel anxious as to how long the process will take, how much it will cost and what to do if an application is refused. While there is no guarantee of a visa result, following the above tips can put you in the best position for a fast, smooth and stress-free application. From proper preparation, starting early to getting expert legal advice – this is an immigration experts take on maximising your chances of a successful application.
