Know Your Rights
S1: Your Rights Before Migrating to the UK
Knowing your rights from the start helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures your journey begins on the right track.
1.1. The Right to Regulated Immigration Advice
You are legally entitled to receive immigration advice only from professionals who are authorised by the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA). Regulated advisers must:
- Act in your best interest
- Provide correct and lawful advice
- Maintain strict confidentiality
- Never promote illegal or dishonest actions
- Offer services transparently and ethically
We are fully authorised by the IAA and insured by a reputable provider. Your case is in safe, accountable hands.
1.2. The Right to Clear Information and Informed Choices
Before applying for a visa, you have the right to:
- Understand which immigration options are suitable for your situation
- Receive honest, tailored advice based on facts—not assumptions
- Be informed about the application process, key requirements, possible outcomes, and your responsibilities
- Ask questions and make your decision freely, without pressure or urgency
We help you understand your options clearly—so you can make confident, well-informed decisions.
1.3. The Right to Transparent Fees and Fair Agreements
You have the right to:
- Receive a written agreement outlining all services and fees before committing
- Know exactly what you’re paying for—without hidden charges
- Decline or pause services at any time prior to submission
- Be protected by a contract that is insured up to £250,000 by a trusted insurance provider
We offer clear, fixed pricing with no surprises—your trust and security come first.
1.4. The Right to Protection from Fraud and Exploitation
Unfortunately, many unregulated agents operate unlawfully and exploit vulnerable migrants. You have the right to:
- Refuse any service from individuals who cannot prove official authorisation
- Avoid risky shortcuts, false documentation, or fake guarantees
- Report fraud or misconduct without fear
We operate with integrity. Our advice is legal, ethical, and focused on your success—not shortcuts.
S2: Your Rights After Arriving in the UK
Having a visa doesn’t just give you permission to enter—it also grants you certain legal rights while you remain in the UK.
2.1. The Right to Do What Your Visa Allows
Each visa type comes with specific permissions—and you have the right to exercise them lawfully. Depending on your visa, you may be entitled to:
- Work for a specific employer or sector
- Study full-time or part-time
- Rent accommodation
- Access certain public services or benefits
- Travel in and out of the UK during your visa validity
Unsure what your visa allows? We’ll explain your visa conditions clearly and help you stay compliant.
2.2. The Right to Access Essential Services
If your visa includes the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), you have full access to NHS healthcare during your stay.
You also have the right to:
- Register with a GP
- Open a bank account
- Enrol children in school (in many visa categories)
- Receive fair treatment from landlords, employers, and service providers
We guide clients through setting up essential services after arrival—because starting life in a new country should feel secure.
2.3. The Right to Be Treated Fairly and Without Discrimination
You are protected by UK equality and anti-discrimination laws. This means:
- Employers, landlords, and officials must not treat you unfairly based on your nationality or immigration status
- You cannot be refused a job, a home, or public services simply because you are a migrant (as long as your visa permits the activity)
- Any status checks (e.g. Right to Work, Right to Rent) must be done lawfully and respectfully
If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly, we can help assess your situation and guide your next steps.
2.4. The Right to Legal Advice When Circumstances Change
Even after arriving, your situation might change. You have the right to seek legal advice if:
- Your relationship ends and your visa is dependent on it
- You lose your job or are unfairly dismissed
- You wish to switch visas or extend your stay
- The Home Office contacts you unexpectedly
- You need to apply for a dependent visa for a family member
Early advice makes a difference. We’re here to support you when your plans or circumstances change.
S3: Your Rights After Gaining ILR or British Citizenship
Settlement in the UK brings long-term security—but also new responsibilities and opportunities.
3.1. Your Rights with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Once granted ILR, you no longer have time restrictions on your stay. You are entitled to:
- Live, work, and study in the UK without immigration conditions
- Access public funds (benefits) if you meet eligibility criteria
- Use NHS services without needing to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge
- Sponsor eligible family members to join you
- Apply for British citizenship (usually after 12 months)
ILR gives you long-term security—but it can be lost if you stay outside the UK for 2 years or more. We advise you on how to maintain your status safely.
3.2. Your Rights as a British Citizen
Becoming a UK citizen gives you full and permanent rights under British law. These include:
- The right to a UK passport
- The right to vote in all UK elections and referenda
- The right to stand for public office
- Full protection as a British national when abroad
- No further immigration control or renewal requirements
We guide clients through naturalisation and registration applications—ensuring a smooth and confident path to British citizenship.
3.3. Rights for Children of Settled or British Parents
If you have children, you may have the right to:
- Register your child as a British citizen (even if they were born outside the UK)
- Apply for a British passport for a child born in the UK under certain conditions
- Avoid visa renewals or status checks for British children
We provide specialist support with child registration and family settlement options.
3.4. The Right to Continue Receiving Immigration Advice (If Needed)
Even after settlement or naturalisation, you may still need guidance. For example:
- Bringing relatives to the UK
- Applying for a passport abroad
- Renouncing or confirming dual nationality
- Avoiding loss of status when travelling or relocating
We remain your trusted adviser—before, during, and after your immigration journey
How Fams Legal Puts You First?
Clarity · Integrity · Trust
Knowing exactly what you can expect from us helps you feel safe, informed and confident every step of the way.
At Fams Legal, we are fully regulated by the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA). This means we have strict duties and responsibilities to protect you and your rights throughout your immigration journey.
1. Clear Information and Documentation
We provide you with a Client Care Letter at the start of your case (This explains exactly what we will do for you, the agreed fixed fee, and how you can make a complaint if you are unhappy).
You will be asked to sign or confirm agreement before any work begins.
At the end of your case, we send you a Closure Letter to confirm the outcome and formally close our file.
2. Honesty, Integrity and Competence
We act lawfully, honestly, and always in your best interests.
We only provide advice at the level we are authorised for.
We keep accurate records of your case and all communications.
3. Transparency on Fees
You will always receive a clear written agreement of services and an agreed fixed fee before you commit.
There are no hidden charges or unexpected extras.
4. Protecting Your Rights
We handle your case professionally and keep you regularly updated.
Your information is kept strictly confidential, unless the law requires disclosure.
We will never take shortcuts, use false documents, or act unethically.
5. Honest Advertising
Our website, materials and advice are accurate and never misleading.
We do not guarantee results or make false promises.
Our official IAA registration details are clearly displayed.
6. Your Right to Complain
You have the right to complain if you are not satisfied with our service.
Our complaints procedure is explained in your Client Care Letter, including how you can escalate the matter to the Immigration Services Commissioner if needed.