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For most people around the world hoping to live in the United Kingdom, obtaining the proper visa is essential. The UK operates a rigorous visa system with many options, each carrying specific requirements. With some insight and preparation, average applicants can identify achievable paths aligned with their circumstances. Though the process demands dedication, viable avenues exist to secure legal residency status.
Ancestry Visa
Those with a UK-born grandparent may apply for an UK Ancestry visa. Successful applicants can live, work and study in the UK for 5 years. After that, they can apply for settled status if working for 5 years continuously.
Ancestry Visas offer an advantage to those with family ties to the UK. But financial requirements, good character checks, and other criteria must still be met.
Skilled Worker Visa
Like all countries, the UK has a shortage of skilled workers in many fields. If you have a good education and extensive experience in a trade, you can always try finding an employer there. Also, in some cases the government itself provides simplified visas so that people can enter the country and work under special programs.
Typically you can get one of these work visas for around 5 years. If you keep your job in the UK during that time, you’ll usually have the option to renew the visa or even apply for citizenship eventually – depending on your situation. Getting approved can be tricky because they only want very skilled applicants. But for folks who meet the requirements and want to settle in the UK long-term, it’s one of the best visas out there. It paves the way for naturalization down the road once you’ve proven your value as an employee.
Student Visa
Nowadays, a huge number of people dream of studying in the United Kingdom, as it is home to some of the world’s oldest institutions and provides a first-class education. The country offers this opportunity and issues the appropriate permissions for a set period of validity. For those who do manage to graduate from British universities, even more additional opportunities are provided.
Student Visas allow part-time work up to 20 hours during term and full-time during holidays. After graduation, recipients can apply to stay and work for up to 2 years through the Graduate Visa. This provides a route to more permanent status later on.
Irish Citizens
As part of the Common Travel Area, Irish citizens can freely enter, live and work in the UK without needing visas or paperwork.
However, after Brexit, Irish citizens must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue enjoying full rights as EU citizens did. This requires proof of residence.
Irish citizens in the UK for 5+ years when applying usually get Settled Status. Others get Pre-Settled Status until they reach the 5 year minimum.
Choose the Path That Fits You
Navigating UK immigration can seem daunting. But with research into the options, average citizens worldwide can often find visas well-suited for their skills, backgrounds, and goals. Each path comes with specific stipulations, but offers the reward of legal status and the chance to fully participate in life in the UK. Take an informed approach and the journey to British residency is very achievable.
